WV Rivers Announces New Executive Director
Charleston, W.Va.— After a thorough executive search, West Virginia Rivers Coalition (WV Rivers) is excited to announce Ms. Jennie Smith of Morgantown has been selected as the new Executive Director.
Ms. Smith previously served as President and CEO of Philanthropy WV, earned a MBA from the University of Maryland, and has more than 15 years of experience in non-profit management, charitable giving, and partnership development for community service organizations. She will officially begin her role on September 9.
WV Rivers’ Board Chair Mac Thornton expressed his optimism for the organization’s mission to ensure clean water for all West Virginians, stating, “Jennie Smith’s proven leadership and partnerships to help people in need will broaden the base of support for clean and healthy waters, land, and communities all across the Mountain State.”
Ms. Jennie Smith expressed her enthusiasm for WV Rivers, “Our rivers are the lifeblood of West Virginia, and I am committed to leading with integrity and unwavering dedication to our mission. Together, we will ensure our cherished waters continue to thrive and support future generations.”
For more than thirty years, WV Rivers has been recognized as the flagship environmental policy organization in the state. The incoming Executive Director will be supported by experienced Deputy Director, Autumn Crowe, who has been instrumental for the past 9 years in supporting WV Rivers’ reputation of bringing the science into policy decisions.
Autumn Crowe added, “The WV Rivers team is thrilled to welcome Jennie Smith. Her expertise in organizational growth and passion for environmental advocacy will empower us to advance our mission more effectively.”
Jennie Smith’s vision and leadership will bring continued success to WV Rivers Coalition in its mission to conserve and restore West Virginia’s rivers and streams. With her at the helm, WV Rivers is poised to enhance its initiatives, foster stronger community engagement, and secure the resources necessary to safeguard the natural beauty of the Mountain State for generations to come.
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About WV Rivers Coalition:
West Virginia Rivers Coalition is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving and restoring West Virginia’s exceptional rivers and streams. Learn more at WVRivers.org.
