Alice Renee Faucett
General Counsel , West Virginia State University
Photo by Todd Griffith / WVSU .
PAIGE KOCOUREK
WHILE EVERYONE HAS DREAMS revolving around career aspirations , it is rare to find the individual whose childhood career ambitions turn into their profession as an adult . Alice Faucett , however , turned her dreams into reality . She pursued her lifetime goal of becoming a lawyer and now serves as general counsel for West Virginia State University ( WVSU ).
While Faucett knew she had the work ethic and strength to attain a law degree , she found many situations involved pushing past harsh judgments and stereotypes .
“ When I was in high school , I told my counselor I wanted to be a lawyer , and she told me to be a legal assistant instead ,” Faucett explains . “ When I went home and told my dad , he went to the school and had a conversation with the counselor .
That moment taught me an important lesson — everyone is not going to support your dreams . More importantly , I learned I didn ’ t have to accept the box others try to place me in . I never let anyone else downplay my dreams for my life .”
After earning a bachelor ’ s degree in business management and economics from West Virginia Wesleyan College , Faucett went on to obtain her Juris Doctor from the West Virginia University College of Law in 1992 using her innate determination .
She set out to lead an incredible career , beginning with her position as assistant attorney general straight out of law school under the Honorable Mario Palumbo , where she took on many responsibilities .
“ I didn ’ t just learn the law , I learned how the state functions , how its agencies operate and the responsibilities of each branch of government ,” she says .
This endeavor gave her an exceptional understanding of state and federal regulations , which would provide a basis for her next position as general counsel to Frederick Community College in Maryland . Working in this role prepared Faucett for her current position as general counsel at WVSU by allowing her to experience higher education and learn how the administration works .
During her time at Frederick , Faucett continued to serve as general counsel and director of discipline for the West Virginia Board of Examiners for Registered Professional Nurses . From writing laws and rules to overseeing the laws and regulations governing these practices , Faucett helped regulate the practice of more than 31,000 registered nurses in West Virginia .
Today , she oversees all legal matters at WVSU , including advising the president , writing policies and drafting agreements .
Faucett finds herself wearing many hats as each day brings something new . She strives to make the university stronger by utilizing her skills , perseverance and strong connection to the Mountain State .
Growing up in Charleston , WV , greatly influenced Faucett , and she desires to give back in hopes of returning a little of what her community has given to her . Years spent practicing with the state government have allowed her to identify with clients and serve citizens . Throughout her career , Faucett has found ways to touch the lives of those around her .
“ I pray I have had a positive impact on those I have worked with in the past ,” she says . “ My work with the university is just beginning . I hope to affect change in policy and have a positive impact on the many educated and talented individuals who are employed at this institution . I strive to make WVSU better and stronger .”
Not only has Faucett inspired positive change in the legal industry , she also influences young people through her involvement with the church , where she serves as a mentor and encourages others to challenge themselves . In addition , she helps nonprofits and individuals as a part of her pro bono work . Faucett is an incredible role model for not just her four daughters — Jairis , Julia , Jaidyn and Jamie — but for anyone seeking to influence their community . •
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE