Elizabeth A. Manuel has dedicated her career to increasing access to education and advancing student success initiatives. Beginning with a focus on economic and workforce development in West Virginia’s most rural communities, she has spent over two decades leading efforts to make higher education accessible, particularly for first-generation and low-income students. Ms. Manuel’s expertise includes grassroots community collaboration, securing funding for impactful programs, and providing educational opportunities for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Ms. Manuel served as Senior Director of Student Services for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the West Virginia Community and Technical College System. She played a central role in securing nearly $30 million for statewide college access initiatives. Prior to that, she held various roles at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College. Ms. Manuel continues to serve students and families while promoting education in her current role as Dean of Student Affairs at Heritage Primary & Preparatory School.
Ms. Manuel holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Marshall University. She resides in Logan, WV, where she remains active in her local community.