The West Virginia University Extension community is deeply saddened to share about the passing of Cindy Fitch, Extension professor emerita and former associate dean for research, on September 21, 2026. Fitch was a passionate advocate for health and nutrition and was dedicated to helping West Virginians live better, healthier lives.
Fitch retired in January 2024 and relocated to LaGrange, Ohio. Prior to her retirement, Fitch served as WVU Extension’s associate dean for research for more than nine years, where she promoted faculty success through support for research and scholarly efforts. Her own research focused on understanding the relationships among nutrition, growth, development, and health in children.
“Cindy devoted more than two decades of service to this University and our state, but above her professional achievements, I’ll remember her bright spirit and kind demeanor most,” said Jorge Atiles, associate vice president and dean of the WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement, which houses WVU Extension. “She will truly be missed.”
Fitch originally joined WVU Extension in 2008 as a food and nutrition specialist and professor. In 2010, she was tapped to lead WVU Extension’s statewide families and health programs, serving in the director role until she was appointed to her associate dean role in 2015.
Before her time with WVU Extension, Fitch was a faculty member in the WVU Davis College of Agriculture and Natural Resources’ Human Nutrition and Foods program and also served as a clinical dietitian at two hospitals.
Fitch held a doctorate in nutrition from Case Western Reserve University, a master’s degree in nutrition from Texas Woman’s University, and a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Texas Tech University.
A full obituary is available here.
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hb/09/22/26