BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) has announced the hiring of Josephine “Jozy” Moore as its new Policy and Government Outreach Coordinator.
Moore, a former reporter at The Register-Herald in Beckley, brings a background in journalism and government affairs to her new role.
She previously worked as a government affairs reporter at The Herald-Dispatch in Huntington and earned recognition for her extensive coverage of the Natalie Cochran murder trial, which was featured in a special episode of 20/20.
Jina Belcher, Executive Director of NRGRDA, praised Moore’s experience and connections within the community.
“Over the last several years, NRGRDA has worked closely with Jozy on local programs and projects and appreciated her skilled reporting and trust with high-profile and sensitive information,” Belcher said.
“After learning Jozy’s government relations outreach background and watching her grow and earning the confidence of many of our local, state, and federal leaders, we knew she’d be a phenomenal asset to the NRGRDA team to help navigate the political landscape in WV.”
Moore, a native of Indian Trail, North Carolina, earned her bachelor’s degree in Print Journalism from Marshall University. She said she looks forward to continuing her work in public service through her new position.
“As I transition into my new role, I hope to build on that trust and the community relationships I’ve formed,” Moore said.
“As a reporter, I’ve spent a lot of time covering the wonderful work the NRGRDA does, and I’m excited to now be on the other side, actively contributing to their initiatives that drive growth and impact in our community.”
Belcher said the Policy and Government Outreach Coordinator role will focus on government relations, community outreach, and policy initiatives.
“This new position serves as a key liaison between NRGRDA, government agencies, community stakeholders, and the public to ensure alignment with strategic goals and effective communication,” she said.
The role will include responsibilities in policy and advocacy, community engagement, journalism and digital communications, and program coordination.
Belcher noted that Moore’s hiring comes at an important time for the organization.
“NRGRDA must constantly thread the needle with our advocacy and outreach at the local, state, and national levels,” Belcher said. “Our growth of pending projects, programs, and robust network of relationships amidst transitions at the state and federal government make Jozy’s addition very timely.”
The NRGRDA supports economic and community development efforts in Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties.