CHARLESTON, W.Va. –The West Virginia Department of Human Services has released their official announcement on who will be the departments new cabinet secretary.
Alex J. Mayer, who replaces Cynthia Persily, was appointed by Governor Patrick Morrisey.
Mayer who is a U.S. Army Veteran, will be bringing 12 years of experience with him as he takes on this new role. He has experience in public administration, operations management, strategic planning, and public policy.
“I am honored to join the West Virginia Department of Human Services and contribute to the continued success of this vital agency,” Secretary Mayer said in the press release. “I look forward to working alongside dedicated professionals to improve the well-being of West Virginians, with a special focus on supporting our most vulnerable populations.”
He previously held positions in the State of South Dakota as, most recently, the Chief of Children and Family Services. While in that role he oversaw programs in Child Welfare, Economic Assistance such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and child support. He has also lead initiatives in chronic disease prevention and public health.