Alys Smith Named to West Virginia Executive’s 2025 Lawyers & Leaders Class

WEST VIRGINIA (August 28, 2025) – West Virginia First Foundation (WVFF) proudly congratulates Executive Board Member and Chair of its New Horizons Committee, Alys Smith, on being named to the West Virginia Executive Magazine’s Lawyers & Leaders Class of 2025, a prestigious recognition presented in partnership with the West Virginia University College of Law.

The Lawyers & Leaders program honors legal professionals who exemplify excellence, leadership, service, and ethics. Inductees have dedicated their careers to serving others and their communities while leaving a lasting mark on the legal profession and the state of West Virginia.

Throughout her dynamic career, Alys has been an unwavering advocate for those without a voice, a champion for women, and a firm believer in the potential that exists in every community. In addition to her legal practice as a Guardian ad Litem advocating for foster children in abuse and neglect cases, she serves as co-founder of the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, First Lady of Marshall University, and a leader in numerous community initiatives. Within WVFF, she brings this same passion and vision to her leadership of the New Horizons Committee, which is focused on innovative, forward-thinking strategies to strengthen prevention and recovery efforts across West Virginia.

“I am deeply honored to be recognized among West Virginia’s Lawyers & Leaders,” said Smith. “This award is a reflection of the mentors, colleagues, and communities that have shaped my journey. My work, whether in the courtroom, through nonprofit initiatives, or as part of WVFF, is driven by a simple belief: potential is everywhere, but opportunity is not. My goal is to help close that gap so that West Virginians can rise on their own terms.”

WVFF Chairman of the Board Matthew Harvey praised Smith’s dedication to both the legal field and her broader service to West Virginia. “Alys truly embodies the spirit of this award: excellence, service, and leadership. Her vision and compassion make a lasting difference, and we are grateful for the impact she continues to have across our state.”

To learn more about Alys Smith and WVFF, visit wvfirst.org.