CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Paul Hardesty has been appointed to serve as the president of the state Board of Education.
During the board’s monthly meeting Wednesday, board president Nancy White announced she would not seek re-election. She said serving in the role was a true honor.
“It’s been one of my greatest honors of my professional life to serve this esteemed institution and to work alongside such dedicated educators, leaders, and public servants,” White said.
“During my tenure, I have witnessed first-hand the unwavering commitment to excellence and education across our great state. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together, advancing policies that prioritize student achievement, supporting our administrators, teachers and service personnel, and strengthening the foundation of public education in West Virginia,” she continued.
Board member Debra Sullivan says White, who will now assume the role of financial officer, is a true professional.
“You are an expert on school finance, and I wish we could clone you and put you in 55 counties,” Sullivan said.
Hardesty formerly served as board president from 2022 to 2024 and was the legislative liaison. Hardesty was also a state senator and member of the Logan County Board of Education.
During the meeting, the board also appointed Victor Gabriel as vice-president and F. Scott Rotruck as secretary.