UC announces Jamie Cope as new Executive Director of Innovation

CHARLESTON, WV, November 3, 2025 — The University of Charleston has announced that Jamie Cope has been named Executive Director of Innovation. 

Cope brings an accomplished background spanning entrepreneurship, marketing, economic development, and advanced manufacturing to UC. He joins the university from the West Virginia University Industrial Extension, where he served as Business Development Manager. 

Prior to that, he was Deputy Director of the Robert C. Byrd Institute (RCBI), overseeing daily operations, managing the West Virginia Makes Festival, and helping entrepreneurs and manufacturers adopt cutting-edge technologies. His experience also includes serving as Location Services Manager for the West Virginia Film Office and founding his own company, Destiny Images. 

“Jamie’s experience and entrepreneurial mindset will be instrumental in taking UC’s innovation ecosystem to the next level,” said Dr. Marty Roth, President of the University of Charleston. “His background in business development and technology aligns perfectly with our goal to empower students, entrepreneurs, and small businesses to turn ideas into reality across West Virginia. Through our current programming at the UC Downtown Innovation Hub, such as the Business Accelerator Program, we are creating a powerful environment where leaders can collaborate, experiment, and grow. We are confident Jamie will continue to build on that momentum.” 

In his new role, Cope will lead UC’s innovation ecosystem, including the Russell and Martha Wehrle Innovation Center on the Charleston campus and the Downtown Innovation Hub at 240 Capitol Street. He will guide program development, organize and lead workshops for small and mid-sized businesses and UC students, engage with city and state entrepreneurial ecosystems, and oversee innovation-related grants and donor engagement.