Sarah A. Smith, who has worked at the State Capitol and in corporate affairs, has been appointed associate vice president for state and corporate relations at West Virginia University, effective Dec. 30.

“Sarah brings a familiarity with the inner workings of the Legislature as well as business, along with her love for the state and this University, to this new position,” said William H. Hutchens III, WVU’s vice president for corporate and legal affairs and general counsel. “She will be a great champion for WVU in Charleston and around the state, working with various elected officials as well as corporations and the private sector.”

Smith, a 2004 graduate of the WVU College of Law, is currently director of government and external affairs for Alpha Natural Resources. She also has an MBA from the University of Charleston and is a summa cum laude graduate of Glenville State College with bachelor’s degrees in history and political science.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to serve a great university that I love,” said Smith, who will reside in Charleston and report to Hutchens. “I am proud to be able to help spread WVU’s message throughout the state.”

Smith has served on the boards of Leadership West Virginia, the Bridgemont Community and Technical College in Montgomery, the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority, the WV Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Energy Network.

She previously served then-Gov. Joe Manchin as deputy legislative director and special assistant in addition to being an advisor in the elections division in the Office of the Secretary of State.

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