Alex Mayer resigns as head of the West Virginia Department of Human Services

Alex Mayer, secretary of the state’s Department of Human Services, is resigning from his position.

“Serving as secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services has been a meaningful professional opportunity. I am grateful for the chance to work alongside dedicated public servants who are committed to supporting our most vulnerable West Virginians,” Mayer said.

Mayer, originally from South Dakota, was appointed by Gov. Patrick Morrisey a little more than a year ago. He stepped into the role as the agency was grappling with a foster care crisis, substantial federal changes to Medicaid and public assistance programs, and more. 

Much of his focus over the last year has been attempting to build process and consistency into the state’s overwhelmed foster care system. Mayer oversaw a statewide listening tour to better understand West Virginia’s foster care issues; a report following the tour reiterated many well-known issues, like the need for expanded access to child mental health care and improved communication with families and foster parents. 

“The department’s work continues with strong leadership, experienced professionals and clear operational priorities in place,” Mayer said. “Ongoing initiatives and core programs remain focused on service delivery, accountability, collaboration and responsible stewardship of public resources.

“I am proud of the work accomplished during my tenure and confident that the department will continue advancing its mission on behalf of the people of West Virginia.”

Morrisey confirmed Mayer was departing from his role in a press release sent late Friday night. Mayer’s resignation will be effective Sunday. 

“I want to thank Alex Mayer for leading the Department of Human Services during an important period for our state,” Morrisey said. “He has worked tirelessly on behalf of West Virginians, and I wish him the very best as he pursues an opportunity in the private sector.”

The governor said Mayer led the department during a time focused on “strengthening services for children and families, improving operational efficiency and addressing key challenges within the state’s human services system.”

Morrisey appointed DoHS deputy secretary Christina Mullins to serve as acting secretary.

Mullins has served as deputy secretary since 2022.