Flaherty, a Charleston attorney, will replace Stephen Goodwin, who resigned from the board last month.

The appointment will take effect immediately and will last one year, which is the remainder of Goodwin's four-year term.

“Tom Flaherty has established himself as a respected professional, and he is willing to give something back to assist in the growth of higher education,” Manchin said. “His knowledge and skills are far reaching, and his commitment to the state and this university is outstanding. I know he will serve WVU and the Board of Governors and I am so pleased he has accepted this appointment.”

Flaherty said he is looking forward to serving on the board.

“I am honored that the governor has selected me to this very important role, which will give me the opportunity to further serve my alma mater,” said Flaherty. I am eager to join the fellow BOG members to help continue to move this great university forward.”

Flaherty will be a good addition to the university's governing body, Chairwoman Carolyn Long said. "Tom Flaherty is an outstanding attorney and community servant, and someone who has made this state and University proud," she 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."

Flaherty's vision will help move WVU forward, President James P. Clements said.

"Tom Flaherty is a WVU business administration and law school graduate who has had an outstanding career as an attorney and in service to our University and state," he said. "He is a very bright and dedicated guy - a great choice. I welcome his involvement on the board during this very important time of setting a shared vision for the university."

Flaherty is a member of Flaherty, Sensabaugh & Bonasso PLLC, in Charleston.

He has a law degree and a bachelor's in business administration from WVU.