FAIRMONT — Dani DeVito will take the mantle from Pat Snively as the next president of the Marion County Chamber of Commerce.
“I was incredibly honored to have been chosen as the next president,” DeVito said. “I love this community and I’m excited to continue to be an advocate and resource for the businesses that call it home.”
The chamber made the announcement by press release on May 7. The release said DeVito brings a wealth of experience in business development, strategic leadership and community engagement. She begins her role on June 2.
DeVito comes from ShalePro, company that provides services to the oil and gas industry. The release states DeVito has helped drive initiatives in workforce develop, marketing and organizational growth. DeVito is also a major presence in the Fairmont and Marion County Community. She was past president of the board of directors at Tygart Valley United Way. She also took part in 2023’s Dancing with the Stars, which raised money for the United Way.
“She’s been actively involved in the community for a number of years,” outgoing Chamber President Pat Snively said. “She’s a member of several boards and has contributed to the area. So I think some of her work that she currently does will dovetail neatly with what we do here at the Chamber. I think we’re in a good spot and ready to hand it over to new leadership and see how it thrives.”
The release states the Chamber conducted an extensive search for its next leader. They sought a candidate who understands the needs of the local business community and can strengthen public-private partnerships throughout the region. At the end February, Snively announced he was stepping down after being named swim coach at Fairmont State University.
“This community is filled with innovation, resilience, and pride,” DeVito said. “I’m committed to building on that foundation to support our local businesses and create new opportunities for growth.”
Chad Nuzum, chair of the Chamber’s board of directors, said DeVito’s passion for Marion County and the Chamber are obvious. He saluted her for having the right mix of energy, independence and leadership. He said the board was thrilled to welcome her as the Chamber’s next director.
The Marion County Chamber of Commerce established itself in 1953. It’s a nonprofit organization that represents over 400 businesses, organizations and professionals in Marion County and North Central West Virginia. DeVito’s job as president will focus on expanding membership, enhancing programs and performing advocacy for the local business community.
“The Chamber needs a strong leader out there to be present in the community, to be available to bring the community together and network,” Nuzum said.
DeVito said the Chamber has a long and successful history in Marion County.
“I am looking forward to adding to the incredibly strong foundation that’s already been built,” DeVito said. “Focusing on communicating with our membership about their wants and needs and how the Chamber can continue to be a resource for them.”