Angela Vance has devoted her career to advancing advocacy and public policy for West Virginians. As the associate state director of advocacy for AARP, she leads a statewide network of volunteers dedicated to representing community interests before lawmakers. She oversees training and development programs that equip volunteers with the information, confidence, and skills needed to engage effectively in the legislative process. Her role includes conducting research, developing model legislation, drafting testimony, and collaborating with members of the West Virginia House of Delegates and Senate to identify policy priorities and secure bill sponsorships. Throughout each legislative session, she maintains a daily presence at the Capitol, guiding her volunteer team, meeting with legislators, and monitoring key bills as they advance through committee.
Ms. Vance’s academic background laid the foundation for her career in public service. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in sociology from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia. This foundation deepened her understanding of social systems, civic engagement and public responsibility. She later completed the Leadership West Virginia certification program, which expanded her professional network and strengthened her ability to collaborate across public and private sectors. These educational experiences shaped her thoughtful and informed approach to advocacy.
Ms. Vance’s expertise spans a range of policy areas including health care, long-term care, public pensions, digital equity, consumer protection and the prevention of fraud and financial exploitation. Her leadership has contributed to several major legislative victories that have improved lives across the state. Among her proudest accomplishments was the successful effort to eliminate the state tax on Social Security, a reform that eased the financial burden on older adults. She also played a key role in amending the Consumer Protection Act to allow lawsuits to continue after a plaintiff’s death, expanding justice for victims and their families. These efforts earned her recognition through state and national awards honoring excellence in public advocacy.
Before joining AARP, Ms. Vance worked as a public policy director for the West Virginia chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, working to improve support and resources for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. Her early experience as an administrative assistant with the West Virginia House of Delegates gave her firsthand insight into the legislative process, reinforcing her desire to pursue a career in public policy and community service.
In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Vance contributes her time and expertise to organizations that align with her mission of service. She is a member of Rotary International and an advisor to the West Virginia Office of Broadband within the Division of Economic Development, where she supports efforts to expand high-speed internet access across rural areas. Her work has helped strengthen digital infrastructure, enabling greater access to telehealth services and online education. She also collaborates with state partners to recruit and train direct care workers, addressing critical shortages in health and long-term care.
Ms. Vance’s commitment to volunteerism extends beyond her career. She has served on the board of directors and advisory council for the West Virginia chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and remains active in her local church and school community. Her service has earned her nominations and honors recognizing her leadership and advocacy, including acknowledgment from Easterseals DC MD VA and selection among The State Journal’s Generation Next: 40 under 40.
Looking to the future, Ms. Vance intends to continue advocating for the health, independence, and financial stability of older West Virginians while preparing for a transition into advisory and mentoring roles. Through her dedication, she remains a trusted advocate, a thoughtful leader, and a steadfast voice for the people she serves.