NASCA Press Release: Samantha Willis Announced as 20 Under 40 Award Recipient

For Immediate Release
May 22, 2025

Contact: Elizabeth Whitehouse, Executive Director, executivedirector@nasca.org

NASCA Press Release: Samantha Willis Announced as 20 Under 40 Award Recipient

Charleston, WV — The National Association of State Chief Administrators (NASCA) proudly announces Samantha Willis, Director and General Counsel of the West Virginia Purchasing Division, as a NASCA 2025 20 Under 40 Award winner. This prestigious award recognizes 20 outstanding individuals from across the country for their exceptional contributions to state government.

Appointed to her current role in April 2024, Willis’ legal expertise and ability to streamline state operations have positioned her as a rising leader in West Virginia’s public sector. Willis led the development of a new prequalification process for Abandoned Mine Lands grants, contributed to national standards through the ABA Model Procurement Code Committee, and championed initiatives to simplify vendor engagement.

Eric Householder, Cabinet Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Administration, applauded Willis’ efforts to improve government efficiency.

“As the Director and General Counsel of the West Virginia Purchasing Division, Samantha has made a significant impact in streamlining procurement processes and enhancing government efficiency. Her dedication to public service, combined with her legal expertise, makes her a standout candidate for this prestigious recognition. She is a rising leader in West Virginia’s public sector, combining strategic vision, legal expertise, and a deep-rooted passion for public service.”

Willis previously served as Deputy General Counsel and Senior Counsel for Policy and Legislation in the West Virginia Governor’s Office. She currently serves on the West Virginia Women’s Commission and remains an active advocate for equity and public service.

Founded in 1976, NASCA is the nation’s only nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving chief administrative officers or CAOs. NASCA provides a forum for state chief administrative officers to exchange information and learn new ideas from each other and private sector partners. NASCA engages states in transforming government operations through shared knowledge, operational excellence, and thought leadership.

For more information on NASCA, please visit NASCA.org.