§18B-11-2. Institute for public affairs; creation and purposes.

(a) There is hereby created as an independent entity the institute for public affairs, to be located and operated at West Virginia University. The institute shall be under the control and supervision of a director, which position is to be filled by an individual whose credentials include accomplishments in the interdisciplinary academic fields and government. The director shall be appointed by the president of West Virginia University. The institute shall engage faculty from institutions of higher education throughout the state and shall cooperatively develop a program with other such institutions. The terms of such participation may be by contract, loan, part-time basis or other such arrangement.

(b) The institute is directed to conduct independent research and propose strategies and options on public issues and policies upon its own initiative or as may be requested by the executive or the Legislature.

(c) The institute is directed to seek all other funds, grants, and other sources of assistance from other agencies of government as well as the private sector.

(d) The director shall have administrative control and supervision of the institute.