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Meet Stephanie
Growing up along the scenic Husky Highway, Stephanie has deep roots as a lifelong resident of Marion County. Fondly reminiscing about her childhood, she cherishes memories of riding her bicycle to the Mannington pool, casting lines at Rachel Dam, enjoying sled-riding parties at the Nick Saban Football Field in IdaMay, and proudly marching under the Friday-Night lights of Woodcutter Stadium.
During her high school years at North Marion, Stephanie's passion for community involvement shone through as she actively participated in athletics, the Marching Band, and FFA. Simultaneously, she dedicated herself to part-time work at Red Dot Pharmacy, gaining valuable experience.
Following high school, Stephanie's commitment to personal and academic growth remained unwavering. She embarked on a journey to higher education, balancing work and studies. Her perseverance led her to earn degrees and certifications in Biology and Secondary Science Education from West Virginia University and Fairmont State College, showcasing her dedication to learning and community development.
Tomana is a well-respected teacher, coach, mentor, and community volunteer.
Tomana is a well-respected teacher, coach, mentor, and community volunteer.
In The Classroom
For nearly two decades, Stephanie has served our community as a dedicated science teacher. Making a profound impact on the educational landscape in both parochial and public schools throughout Marion County, her commitment to fostering a love for science and critical thinking among her students is evident in the immersive hands-on activities she commonly introduces.
Stephanie's classroom focuses on experiential learning, featuring engaging field trips, an array of STEM activities, participation in Science Fair competitions, exploration of the Star Lab, and the unique experience of maintaining a vibrant classroom greenhouse.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions to science education, Stephanie was honored with nominations for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) in 2021 and 2023.
Nominated by her students in recognition of her tireless efforts for during the COVID-19 global pandemic, Stephanie was awarded the 2022 J. Kevin Scanlon Award for the promotion of Science.
Currently she serves as chair person of the Local School Improvement Council, a committee comprised of vested members of the school community charged with critically examining the school's needs and developing comprehensive improvement plans.
In The Community
Stephanie has dedicated a significant amount of of her adult life filling many important roles within our community.
Affectionately known as 'Coach T', she has spent many years coaching Track & Field, Cross Country, and Recreational Soccer.
Stephanie also volunteers with the IdaMay Improvement Association, where she contributes to various community initiatives and sits on the town's Board of Directors. With the vision of a multi-purpose facility for the community, she is currently working through grant writing efforts to restore the IdaMay School House. Plans include a resource room with free Wi-Fi, after-school tutoring, adult learning opportunities, and a communal town space.
In addition to serving on the Marion County Democrat Executive Committee as a voting member from West Augusta, Stephanie sits on the Board of Directors for the newly formed Samuel Nelson Elliott Foundation, a scholarship trust committed to extending the enduring impact of the Elliott family in the community.
The Tomana's
The Tomana family's journey reflects a beautiful blend of shared history, love, and a commitment to community life in picturesque small town of West Virginia. When recounting their love story, Chris, Stephanie's husband, fondly reflects, "We've known each other for most of our lives. My parents and her stepfather, both IdaMay natives, played in bands together over the years; music has always been a significant part of our lives. Whether at neighborhood picnics or softball tournaments, my earliest memory of Steph is watching this 'curly black-haired little girl' running through the yard, laughing with her mother chasing after her."
While Stephanie pursued her education at West Virginia University, Chris embarked on his career in industrial construction. His work often required him to travel across the country or to Europe for projects in oil refineries, power plants, or textile mills. On a visit home, the couple reconnected and married a few years later.
Having strong family ties to the community, it was only natural for Chris and Stephanie to choose
the once bustling model coal town of IdaMay as their home. The central location allowed
them to build strong community ties throughout the county while raising their two daughters.
Sophia, the Tomana's oldest daughter, is currently pursuing degrees in Exercise Science and
Physical Therapy. The couple's youngest daughter, Lillian, is still at home. The family enjoys the
company of their two dogs, Gus and Lady Mae.
