West Virginia Team

Craig Grooms, Executive Director

A graduate of the West Virginia Institute of Technology (B.S., 1985) and the University of Pittsburgh, (M.P.P.M. 2002). Craig joined College Summit in January 2006, after working for three years as the Director of Admissions for Marshall University. He brings 20 years of experience in the field of higher education admissions. He also has extensive direct-service experience and has participated in three College Summit Workshops. In addition to his hands-on work with students, Craig is a member of a number of professional organizations, including the National Association for College Admission Counseling, the American Association of College Registrars and Admissions Officers, and the Chesapeake & Potomac Association for College Admission Counseling.

Donna Casto, High School Coordinator

A graduate of Fairmont State University (B.A.) and West Virginia University (M.A.), Donna brings over ten years of experience working in the non-profit sector. For several years Donna served as the Program Manager of a multi-million dollar program and worked with superintendents, principals and teachers throughout the state. Since joining College Summit in October 2006, she has used her passion for and deep understanding of education to partner northern West Virginia schools with College Summit.

Lisa Circle, Senior High School Coordinator

A graduate of West Virginia State University (B.S.W.) and West Virginia University (M.S.W.), Lisa’s experience as an Admissions Counselor and Representative at the University of Charleston provides a strong base for her work at College Summit. Lisa works directly with students and teachers in Kanawha County, using her expertise and experience in this field to help more students transition to college. A licensed social worker in West Virginia, Lisa has extensive experience working with youth. She joined College Summit in November 2004 because “this initiative can change our state and I see the value in this organization.”

Keri Welcome, High School Coordinator

Susan Shew, Development Coordinator

A graduate of West Virginia University (M.S. Industrial & Labor Relations, 2004 and B.S. Business Administration with honors, 2003), Susan joined the College Summit team in March 2006 as an Americorps VISTA. During her graduate studies, Susan was Vice-President of the Industrial Relations Student Association and also was able to study abroad in Asolo, Italy. After graduating, Susan gained Human Resource experience as a Staffing Specialist for Manpower Temporary Services. Susan joined the College Summit team because of her passion for higher education and for the opportunity to help make a difference in West Virginia.

Jayme Waldeck, Sr. Operations Associate

A graduate of Shepherd University (B.F.A., Graphic Design, 2003), Jayme joined the College Summit team in February 2006. She worked as a Service Learning Specialist at the University of Charleston through the AmeriCorps VISTA program. During her term, she partnered college students, high school students, and area non-profits with meaningful community service projects. During the summer of 2005, she volunteered as a Writing Coach at a College Summit workshop. Jayme joined full-time to improve college enrollment throughout West Virginia.

Click here to contact the West Virginia team.