After a thorough executive search, West Virginia Rivers Coalition (WV Rivers) announced Jennie Smith of Morgantown has been selected as the new executive director.
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 nonprofit management, charitable giving and partnership development for community service organizations.
She will officially begin her role Sept. 9.
WV Rivers’ Board Chair Mac Thornton expressed his optimism for the organization’s mission to ensure clean water for all West Virginians.
“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,” Thornton said.
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,” she said. “Together, we will ensure our cherished waters continue to thrive and support future generations.”
For more than 30 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 nine years in supporting WV Rivers’ reputation of bringing the science into policy decisions.
“The WV Rivers team is thrilled to welcome Jennie Smith,” Crowe said. “Her expertise in organizational growth and passion for environmental advocacy will empower us to advance our mission more effectively.”
