CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – Today, First Lady Cathy Justice, alongside Governor Justice, delivered her final remarks as First Lady of West Virginia, reflecting on eight years of service and the initiatives that have shaped her time in the role.
First Lady Justice highlighted the success of her Communities In Schools and Friends With Paws initiatives, which have brought meaningful support to students and families across the Mountain State.
“Serving as First Lady of West Virginia over the past eight years has been the honor of a lifetime,” First Lady Justice said. “Through the Communities In Schools and Friends With Paws initiatives, we’ve provided essential resources, care, and support to students and families across the state. It has been a joy to work alongside so many passionate individuals dedicated to making a real difference. West Virginia will always hold the most special place in my heart; it is forever our home, and I am filled with love and pride for the incredible people here who have made these past eight years so unforgettable. Let’s keep working to make West Virginia the best it can be.”
As part of the event, First Lady Justice presented her final Rhododendron Award to Margaret Ann O’Neal, President and Chief Professional Officer of the United Way of Central West Virginia, honoring her extraordinary contributions to the community.
“Margaret Ann embodies the spirit of the Rhododendron Award,” First Lady Justice said. “Her tireless dedication to serving others and strengthening our communities has made a lasting impact on countless lives. She represents the very best of West Virginia—someone who works quietly and selflessly to make our state a better place for all. It’s an honor to recognize her as one of our unsung heroes.”
The First Lady’s Rhododendron Award recognizes individuals in West Virginia who have demonstrated goodness and worked for the betterment of their communities. In particular, this award seeks to recognize the “unsung heroes” throughout West Virginia, whose work has made a significant difference in the lives of others.
“I am shocked, amazed, and so appreciative,” Margaret O’Neal, President of United Way of Central West Virginia, said. “I started out working in Raleigh County and have known the Governor and First Lady for quite some time—they have always cared deeply about kids. It has been such an honor to walk alongside Shawn Ball, who doesn’t just say he’s going to do something—he actually does it. Together with the Governor and First Lady, they have changed the lives of West Virginia children for the better.”
O’Neal has spent decades making a difference in West Virginia. After a career in healthcare, she transitioned to radio at WJLS in Beckley, where she became involved with Hospice of Southern West Virginia. There, she helped raise nearly $3 million to build the Bowers Hospice House.
In 2008, O’Neal joined the United Way of Southern West Virginia, where she expanded the organization’s impact on the community. In 2017, she became President of United Way of Central West Virginia, relocating her family to Charleston to continue her mission of service.
In addition to her work at United Way, O’Neal actively supports Communities In Schools, partnering with Shawn Ball, President of Ball Toyota, to contribute to clothing closets and other vital resources for students.
“Margaret Ann is one of the most caring individuals I have ever known,” Ball said. “She has a servant’s heart and an unwavering desire to help those in need. We are truly blessed to have her.”
Also attending today’s event was State Superintendent of Schools Michele Blatt, who has collaborated closely with Ball and O’Neal on Communities In Schools projects for students.
“Margaret Ann is an amazing advocate for students and families in West Virginia,” Superintendent Michele Blatt said. “Her partnership with Communities In Schools has helped us expand our impact and better target resources across the state. Her problem-solving skills have maximized the funding provided by the Governor and First Lady Justice, enabling it to go so much further. We are deeply grateful for all that she has done.”
