Jean Ambrose

Chair Emeritus

Jean Ambrose is currently the program coordinator and grant writer for the WV Center for Civic Life and coordinator for the WV Civics Literary Council. She recently retired, after 13 years, as the Executive Director of the WV Commission for National and Community Service, the state’s volunteer agency. The role of the Commission is to build West Virginia communities through community service and volunteerism. The Governor appoints the Commission to administer the AmeriCorps National Service program, serve as a clearinghouse for volunteers, support non-profits, and develop leadership in West Virginia communities.

Jean has extensive experience directing non-profit organizations and volunteer initiatives, especially in adult literacy, affordable housing, and community development. Prior to her work at the Commission she was the Deputy Director of the Parkersburg Housing Authority and Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of WV.

Jean is currently serving as Board President of the WV Community Development Hub. She has served as past chair of several organizations including Community Collaborative, Inc., WV Center for Civic Life, Vision Shared Leadership Development Focus Area Team, WV Citizens Corps Council and Community Works in WV.

A resident of Wood County, she holds a BA from Brown University and an MA in History from WVU.