West Virginia Treasurer Riley Moore offered valuable advice to American Legion Auxiliary West Virginia Rhododendron Girls State citizens. In an address during the virtual session at Davis & Elkins College, Moore told the group to make the most of every experience.
Currently in his first term as treasurer, Moore also has served in the West Virginia House of Delegates. However, he said a career in public service was not what he had in mind when he was the same age as the rising high school seniors attending Girls State.
Moore attended trade school and learned carpentry and then welding. He went to work at a stone mining company where he said he learned the life lessons he’s always carried with him: a strong work ethic and a good understanding of people. Although he later attended college and embarked on a career that led him to Homeland Security, Capitol Hill and the defense industry, he said it was his first job that taught him how to succeed.
“Experience everything you can and take that with you for the rest of your life,” Moore told the citizens. “Give it your all and benefit from your experiences.”
Moore also offered insight for the growing opportunities in West Virginia, saying many leaders are reaching retirement age and are looking to the next generation to guide the state.
“You are the next generation of rising leaders and many possibilities will open up for you,” he said. “Prepare for the next step.”
American Legion Auxiliary West Virginia Rhododendron Girls State has been hosting a virtual session this week. An in-person inauguration and recognition ceremony will take place Friday, June 18 in Harper-McNeeley Auditorium in Myles Center for the Arts.