FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Association of School Human Resource Officials (WVASHRO) has named Denece Dial as the 2025 Gregory Bailey West Virginia School Human Resource Official of the Year.
The award, established by the Bowles Rice law firm in memory of education law attorney Greg Bailey, recognizes a school human resource official who has distinguished themselves in personnel administration and contributed to public education and the community.
Dial, Director of Personnel for Fayette County Schools, received the award at the WVASHRO Fall Conference at Stonewall Resort on October 31, 2025.
“Through my eyes, I am undeserving, very humbled, honored, and even more inspired to continue striving forward with the same courage, spirit, and integrity defined by Mr. Greg Bailey and previous recipients,” said Dial. “Their work not only set a standard of excellence, but of heart.”
Dial has been with Fayette County Schools for 11 years, starting her career as a fourth-grade teacher in 2014.
She joined the Personnel department in January 2017 under the late Margaret Pennington, also a past recipient of the Greg Bailey award, serving as Certification Officer before becoming Director of Personnel.
During her five years working alongside Pennington, Dial said she gained invaluable experience by listening, observing, and learning both directly and indirectly.
“Through WVASHRO, I also have become acquainted with many of my past and present valuable state-wide colleagues,” Dial added.
Dial holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems with a minor in Marketing from the West Virginia Institute of Technology and a second bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Concord University. She also earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Concord University.
The Gregory Bailey School Human Resources Official of the Year Award was established in 2016 to honor Bailey, who died in January 2015.
Recipients are recognized for distinguished work in personnel administration, impactful contributions to public education, skilled management of change, and a thoughtful approach to their work, including respect for colleagues and a sense of humor.
Past recipients include Justin Schooley (2016), Carol Hamric (2017), Bill Linville (2018), Margaret Pennington (2019), Susan Grady (2020), Doug Clemons (2021), Ronald “Ron” Pauley (2022), Amy Loring (2023), and Dr. Kristal Filipek (2024).
