WV Rivers Announces Morgantown Woman as New Executive Director

After an extensive search for a new Executive Director, the West Virginia Rivers Coalition (WV Rivers) announced that Jennie Smith of Morgantown has been selected as its new Executive Director.

Smith previously served as president and CEO of Philanthropy WV, earned an MBA from the University of Maryland, and has more than 15 years of experience in nonprofit management, philanthropic outreach, and developing partnerships with social service organizations.

He will officially begin his duties on September 9.

WV Rivers Board Chairman Mac Thornton expressed optimism about the organization’s mission to provide clean water to all West Virginians.

“Jennie Smith’s proven leadership and partnership to help those in need will broaden the base of support for clean and healthy water, land and communities throughout 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 that our beloved waters continue to thrive and support future generations.”

For more than 30 years, WV Rivers has been recognized as a flagship environmental policy organization in the state. The newly elected Executive Director will be supported by experienced Deputy Director Autumn Crowe, who has played a key role in supporting WV Rivers’ reputation for integrating science into policy decisions for the past nine years.

“The WV Rivers team is thrilled to welcome Jennie Smith,” said Crowe. “Her experience in organizational development and passion for environmental advocacy will allow us to more effectively fulfill our mission.”