Patricia Perry Moore was named executive director at West Alabama Mental Health by the board of directors, effective Nov. 12.

Moore has been with the agency since 1985, entering the system as a program coordinator, moving on to mental retardation program director, associate director under Tommy Wright’s administration and assistant director under Kelley Parris Barnes.

Moore earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Alabama and a master’s degree in counseling and psychology from the University of West Alabma.

“Patricia Moore is not only a dear friend but an accomplished manager and administrator,” Barnes said. “I know I can speak for the board when I say the consumers of mental health services, the staff and the board are very lucky to have someone who knows the system so well step in to take over.”

“I am honored that the board put their confidence in me,” Moore said. “I’ve been working here for 22 years, so I took that to heart. I’m dedicated to the services and this agency. I feel honored that the board had that confidence in me and named me to this position.”

Moore is a member of the Morning Star Baptist Church in Demopolis. She is married to David Moore Jr., and they are the parents of two children, David III (Trey) and Makayla.