CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia Tourism Commissioner Betty Carver is retiring. Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin made the announcement Thursday evening.
“Betty has dedicated nearly 40 years to public service in the Mountain State. And for the past 11 years she has led efforts to show the world the many things that make our state great. In fact, under her leadership, travel and tourism revenue topped $5 billion in 2012, contributing $5.1 billion to West Virginia’s economy–the first time in the state’s history,” Gov. Tomblin said in a news release. “I sincerely appreciate Betty’s service to the Mountain State and wish her well in her future endeavors.”
Carver has had many positions in state government over her 37-year career.
“My time at Tourism has been especially rewarding for me personally–and professionally. West Virginia has so much to offer-small towns, quaint shops, fine dining and so much more. We’ve worked hard for many years and I believe we have succeeded in showing folks from around globe: Wild and Wonderful West Virginia,” Carver said.
Her retirement takes effect May 31.