Flaherty
CHARLESTON -- A Charleston attorney said he is honored and humbled to be appointed to the West Virginia University Board of Governors.
Gov. Joe Manchin appointed Tom Flaherty to fill Stephen Goodwin's seat after his resignation in October. Flaherty will serve the rest of Goodwin's term.
Flaherty received his bachelor's degree in business administration in 1971 and his law degree in 1974, both from WVU.
Flaherty -- a founding member of Flaherty, Sensabaugh & Bonasso -- said he was honored Manchin selected him for such an important role.
"This will give me the opportunity to further serve my alma mater," he said. "I'm very humbled and honored for this rare privilege."
Flaherty said he'll serve until the end of June, which is the remainder of Goodwin's term.
WVU Board of Governors Chair Carolyn Long commended Manchin for choosing Flaherty.
"Tom Flaherty is an outstanding attorney and community servant, and someone who has made this state and university proud," Long said. "I think he'll make an excellent Board member. We welcome his input and expertise as we continue to work together on behalf of WVU."
WVU President James P. Clements said Flaherty has had an outstanding career as an attorney and in services for WVU and West Virginia.
"He is a very bright and dedicated guy—a great choice," Clements said. "I welcome his involvement on the Board during this very important time of setting a shared vision for the University."
Flaherty said he is going into the position with an open mind.
"I'm going to listen and learn first, then contribute," he said. "I have many family members with experience in education that I can leave on for guidance."
Manchin said Flaherty has established himself as a respected professional who is willing to give something back to assist the growth of higher education.
"His knowledge and skills are far reaching, and his commitment to the state and this university is outstanding," Manchin said. "I know he will serve WVU and the Board of Governors and I am so pleased he has accepted this appointment."
Flaherty has served as president, board member and chairman of the West Virginia State Bar and president of the Kanawha County Bar Association. He has been voted as "One of the Best Lawyers in America" for 15 years and was chosen as statewide "Lawyer of the Year" in 2009. He also used to coach Little League baseball and basketball.
He currently serves as chairman of BrickStreet Mutual Insurance Company board of directors and previously served two terms on the WVU College of Law Visiting Committee.