WHEELING, W.Va. — Meet David Skiviat, a member of the Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley’s Board of Directors with a long-standing commitment to service and philanthropy across the Ohio Valley. With decades of leadership experience and a deep connection to Jefferson County, Skiviat brings valuable financial expertise and a collaborative spirit to CFOV’s work.
Skiviat’s relationship with CFOV began years ago as a member of the original Board of the Jefferson County Community Foundation, which merged with CFOV in 2012. After returning to board service in January 2024, he says the opportunity to once again support the Foundation is both meaningful and personal.
“Having an opportunity to come back and help the Foundation today is a real personal blessing,” Skiviat says.
What he enjoys most about serving on the board is seeing the Foundation’s ever-expanding impact across the broader Ohio Valley. He is especially passionate about representing CFOV throughout Jefferson County and connecting residents, donors, and organizations with the Foundation’s mission and resources.
Skiviat’s dedication to community leadership extends well beyond CFOV. He currently serves on the Community Relations Board of Franciscan University and the Triumph of the Cross Parish Finance Council. He recently completed multiple terms on the Trinity Health System Board and, prior to retirement, served on numerous boards throughout Jefferson County, including the Chamber of Commerce, Bishop Mussio Catholic School Board, Triumph of the Cross Parish Council and Finance Council, and as president of the Steubenville Kiwanis Club.
Professionally, Skiviat spent his entire career at Franciscan University of Steubenville, serving in a variety of administrative roles, including 25 years as Vice President of Finance before retiring.
Through his years of service, Skiviat has seen firsthand how passion and generosity can work together to strengthen communities.
“There are many individuals with a deep desire to address community needs, respond to emergencies, and help others,” Skiviat says. “Often, they do so with little financial resources. Matching those efforts with individuals and organizations of means can add synergy to those causes.”
Skiviat believes CFOV plays a unique and vital role in balancing community needs with responsible stewardship of donor intent.
“CFOV manages dual responsibilities in the Ohio Valley community – responding to and supporting needs of the community while also honoring and stewarding the philanthropic objectives of benefactors and grantors,” he says.
During his time on the board, Skiviat hopes to increase awareness of CFOV throughout Jefferson County as a trusted option for philanthropy and estate planning. He also sees collaboration as key to encouraging more community members to get involved in giving.
“I would encourage increased support and communication with existing community organizations, especially those working together to address common objectives,” Skiviat says. “Sycamore Youth Center in Steubenville is a great example of effective collaboration with other organizations.”
With his experience, perspective, and commitment to service, Skiviat is proud to help advance CFOV’s mission and expand its impact throughout Jefferson County and the greater Ohio Valley.
