Justice served as president of Comer Electric, Inc., a business started by her family, and she was a member of the board of directors for First National Bank in Ronceverte for five years.[2]
Justice also spent time substitute teaching in Raleigh County Schools, and she is involved in a local reading program for elementary school students.[2] She became involved in elementary school programs affiliated with her local church, continuing her dedication to supporting young learners.[2]
Justice became the first lady of West Virginia when her husband, Governor Jim Justice, was sworn in on January 16, 2017.[3] She celebrated Women's History Month with a televised speech on March 8, 2017. In her speech, Justice recognized a number of West Virginia women who have made a difference in the state, like novelist Pearl S. Buck, actress Jennifer Garner, and basketball player Vicky Bullett.[4]
In 2018, Justice launched the Communities In Schools (CIS) program across the state.[2] This dropout prevention program was designed to support at-risk students and grew rapidly under her leadership, expanding to 285 schools in all 55 West Virginia counties.[2] This achievement made West Virginia the only state with a CIS program in every county.[2]
Justice initiated the Friends With Paws program, which placed certified therapy dogs in schools throughout West Virginia.[2] Over 40 therapy dogs were deployed to provide emotional support and companionship to students, enhancing school environments and helping children manage stress.
In November 2024, Justice was appointed to a nine-year term on the West Virginia State Board of Education by her husband, governor Jim Justice.[2] This appointment, which followed his victory in a U.S. Senate race, filled the board seat previously held by Daniel Snavely.[2] Governor Justice highlighted her extensive experience and dedication to youth programs, asserting that her qualifications made her an ideal candidate for the role.[2]
In July 2021, Carter Bank & Trust, a banking company, went after Jim and Cathy Justice for a $58 million loan default based on guarantees they signed.[5] The company filed claims over the millions of dollars based on defaults of The Greenbrier Sporting Club and Oakhurst Club.
References
^"First Lady". governor.wv.gov. Retrieved June 25, 2022.