CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Gov. Jim Justice announced Monday he’s appointed state Board of Education member Dr. Bill White to head up Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs.
White, who will resign his seat on the school board, is a Bluefield native.
“I am humbled to have the opportunity to give back to the state I love and help Governor Justice make West Virginia number one,” White said in a news release. “I want to modernize the office and focus its mission on making West Virginia more inclusive so that all of our people have a fair shot at new job opportunities and quality of life, and to keep our young talent here at home. My hope is that the young people of our state, regardless of color or creed, can have the same opportunities I’ve had.”
According to the governor’s office, White’s accomplishments include a career as a research chemist along with the creation of the California-based company, The Management Development Group, Inc. He was the company’s CEO.
“Dr. Bill White is experienced in academics, an accomplished businessman, and a true leader in the African-American community,” Justice said. “I’m confident that his fresh perspective on the office will help my administration make West Virginia a more welcoming place for all people, and grow jobs and expand education opportunities. I want us all joining hands to cross the finish line together; no West Virginian should be left behind or denied an opportunity based on who they are or where they come from.”
White replaces Carolyn Stuart who ran the minority affairs office in the Tomblin administration.