The city of Richmond has named Ruth Morrison as its new director of intergovernmental affairs, officials announced Thursday. 

Morrison, who brings more than 12 years of policy and advocacy experience across federal, state and local levels, will lead partnership efforts with regional, state and federal leaders while advancing city priorities with governmental stakeholders. 

Most recently, Morrison served as policy director for the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts. Her background spans nonprofit innovation, electoral training and national environmental organizing. 

“I’ve known Ruth for years, as a constituent in the city, also as a committed advocate and talented policy professional,” said Del. Betsy Carr. “She understands the complexities of the city’s relationship with the General Assembly and all the critical work we must do together to improve lives in Richmond.” 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Morrison organized containment operations for at-risk populations in Central Virginia. She worked with the Richmond City Council to establish the Health Equity Fund, combining federal, philanthropic, corporate and local dollars for community-based services. 

Morrison has championed the role of doulas, community health workers and grassroots service providers in improving health outcomes. She serves on Richmond and Henrico opioid abatement task forces, working to maximize federal settlement funds for harm reduction, treatment, prevention and recovery services. 

The new director also served on Mayor Danny Avula’s transition executive team, helping outline administration priorities with community experts in health care access, climate, transportation and behavioral health. 

“I’m thrilled to welcome Ruth, who will build the strategy to align the administration’s priorities with our partners in City Council and RPS so we can advocate as one city,” Avula said. “Her leadership, passion and expertise will advance a thriving Richmond for every resident.” 

City Council President Cynthia Newbille praised Morrison’s commitment to evidence-based projects and cross-sector partnerships. 

“After working together to establish Richmond’s Health Equity Fund, I know that she is committed to innovative, evidence-based projects and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the work of bringing cross-sector partners together,” Newbille said. 

Morrison has served on several boards and committees, leading collaboratives with organizations including the YMCA Downtown, the Partnership for Housing Affordability Policy Advisory Committee, WRIR and Mayorathon. 

“What’s important to me about intergovernmental work is finding the win-wins that allow us to realize systems-level changes in partnership with our colleagues at the state, across the region and beyond,” Morrison said. “As a resident of the city and the parent of two RPS kids, I’m grateful to be bringing my experience to City Hall, and I’’m ready to get to work for all Richmonders.” 

Morrison will begin her role Sept. 29.