Rising leadership star: Harrison County school chief Dora Stutler has earned statewide influence

That first year, she continued to handle the personnel supervisor role as she helped shepherd the system and its nearly 10,000 students and 1,500 staff members through the pandemic.

After three more successful years as superintendent, Stutler has signed another three-year contract.

That’s understandable as she’s quickly risen to statewide attention for her efforts in education, including her work with the award-winning GameChanger program aimed at battling drug addiction. She also was appointed by Gov. Jim Justice to be on the first board of the West Virginia First Foundation, the nonprofit that is handling distribution of opioid settlement money.

“Well, I’m really honored,” Stutler said of the increased roles she’s been asked to assume. “I’m a little surprised because I really wasn’t in (the public eye), but I just think if you do a good job and you really focus on the issues at hand, I think people notice that.”

Stutler has always credited her upbringing for setting her foundation for success. She found herself having to grow up quickly after the death of her father when she was 16. She’s known for a tireless work ethic that stems from her working her way through school, as well as the education system.

“So I’m honored that they respect my opinions, and I think it all goes back to I’ve got a lot of experience in managing and dealing with people. They’re recognizing that, and I’m willing to share that information and work with people and I enjoy that part of it. It’s a different world for me because it’s not the world I came from. So it’s exciting for me because I’m learning as much from them as they are probably learning from me. It’s a good exchange of information,” Stutler said.

So what’s the secret to her success? Communication.

While Manchin was known for his ability to own a room, Stutler is much more reserved. But she’s earned a reputation for being a compassionate, active listener.

“Everybody has their own style,” said Harrison Board of Education President Gary Hamrick, who has worked with three different superintendents. “Doc would own a room. He would connect, and you might not agree with him, but he’d make you feel good.”

With Stutler, Hamrick said her true educational roots stand out.

“She is a fantastic listener. And she’s a meticulous note taker,” Hamrick said. “She listens but also takes notes and comprehends. If she doesn’t remember, she has her notes to refer back.

“You know with Dora you’re going to have someone who will listen to the good and the bad. She’s going to give people a chance to explain their views, and she’s going to work with them.”

Hamrick said that while Stutler is different from Manchin, she’s proven to be just as effective.

Stutler said she’s always tried to give all views a fair hearing. She credits Manchin, as well as early mentors like longtime educators Ron Poole and Freda Perkins, for helping mold her leadership style.

“I just had really good mentors, true and steady people. They didn’t make rash decisions. Freda always said you have time, unless there’s an emergency or child at risk, to listen and make the best decision.”

It’s a trademark that Stutler has honed throughout her career, and one that will continue to lead the Harrison County school system as it deals with the changing world of public education, with potential consolidations in the future.

“They just want you to listen. They want you to hear what they have to say. And I’d say 99% of the cases, that usually settles the issue. ... But I just think that’s a trust. It’s a trust and respect that I’ll listen and at least weigh out all the options before I make a decision,” Stutler said.