Our Team

Elaine is the Co-CEO of The Center for Rural Health Development, Inc. (“The Center”) and its Director of Programs. She brings over 18 years of public health experience, with over 15 years of experience in developing strategies to improve health in West Virginia. Previously, Elaine managed the West Virginia Immunization Network, and is the co-developer of The Center’s Wild, Wonderful & Healthy WV program. Before joining The Center, Elaine worked in substance abuse prevention at the United Way of the River Cities, and for the MidAtlantic AIDS Education and Training Center at the University of Pittsburgh. Elaine also served as a Community Health Facilitator for the U.S. Peace Corps in the South Pacific for several years. She holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health from WVU and a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University.

Mr. Dearing is currently the Co-CEO and Loan Fund Manager at The Center for Rural Health Development. He has been with The Center since 2008, previously serving as the Chief Financial Office. Prior to joining the Center, he served as controller for the Jim C. Hamer Company for 18 years. He received his Master’s in Business Administration and Accounting from Marshall University.

Allison Toler Warden is the Program Manager for Wild, Wonderful & Healthy West Virginia, where she leads cross-sector teams to improve health outcomes and support economic development in rural communities. She has experience in youth development and community health education, with a background in local, state, and federal public health initiatives. At the WV Bureau for Public Health, she provided immunization education to Vaccines for Children program providers through the Division of Immunization Services. Her areas of expertise include program management, health communication, and community engagement. Allison holds a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Louisville and a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Sciences from Marshall University.

Lindsay Barr is the Program Manager for the West Virginia Immunization Network.  Lindsay previously worked at the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health, Office of Laboratory Services, as the Molecular Microbiology Supervisor, where she was responsible for outbreak response and managed testing for Influenza, COVID-19, and several other vaccine-preventable diseases.  Lindsay has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from West Virginia University.

Jill Clemente joined The Center for Rural Health Development in 2018. As an Executive Assistant and Communications Coordinator, Jill conducts all administrative and communication functions for the Center, in addition to event planning.

John, through Capital Venture Consultants, a business intermediary firm, serves clients as a consultant on matters of Merger & Acquisitions, project finance, and project development. He has worked on projects that have led to hundreds of millions of dollars in West Virginia investment through the professional services he has offered. John works as a consultant with The Center For Rural Development, Inc. through the development, implementation and management of its successful CDFI Loan Fund. He is currently a Boone Memorial Hospital Board Member, a member of the M&A Source, a member of the International Business Brokers Association where has gained recognition as a Certified Business Intermediary, and a member of the WV Chamber of Commerce. John has also served as Chairman of Leadership WV, President of the WV Economic Development Council, and Chairman of the WV Small Business Development Center Advisory Board.

Thomas joined the Center’s team in 2008 through his company Ignite Studio. His expertise has helped to strengthen our brand and market various programs. Since 1994, Thomas has provided creative guidance for clients in countless industries through art direction, graphic design and illustration. Thomas holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Marshall University. After 15 years of working in graphic design, marketing and advertising, Thomas White opened Ignite Studio. He opened his studio with the goal of working closely with clients to build fruitful, lasting relationships and offering passionate creativity and customer service that clients deserve.

Jeffrey, the beloved purple alpaca, holds a special place in the hearts of all at The Center for Rural Health Development. As their proud and endearing mascot, he symbolizes their commitment to promoting health and well-being in rural communities. With his vibrant amethyst fleece and gentle demeanor, Jeffrey embodies the spirit of compassion and inclusivity, inspiring both staff and beneficiaries alike. Through his engaging presence at community events and conferences, Jeffrey has become a cherished ambassador for the organization's mission. Together, they work tirelessly to improve the health of all West Virginians, leaving a lasting impact on the lives they touch.