West Virginia Executive Spring 2018 | Page 91

SAMANTHA CART Fueling the Future Introducing the Sharp Shooters Class of 2018 IT ONLY TAKES A SPARK to get a fire going, as the old hymn says. In other words, one person can truly inspire others to get up, get out and make a difference in the name of whatever is most important to them. Much like coal, natural gas, water, wind and steam fuel our nation’s most import- ant industries and innovations, the mem- bers of West Virginia Executive’s (WVE) Sharp Shooters Class of 2018 are fueling the state and pushing it toward a brighter future. This year’s honorees are natural resources that make up the backbone of the state’s most important endeavors, from business, government and growth to community service, philanthropy and corporate responsibility, and they have each created a spark in their workplace and their community that shines a light on the issues, organizations and causes they hold dear. Sharp Shooters are West Virginians over the age of 43 who have made an ob- vious impact on their careers and commu- nities and represent what is great about the past and exciting about the future of the Mountain State. Because WVE re- ceives so many nominations each year, it has created a strict set of criteria to ensure the honorees are top tier. Nomi- nees must have lived in the state and been in their West Virginia-based position for at least five years and must actively par- ticipate in community service and phil- anthropic endeavors, as well as efforts to move the Mountain State forward. Past and present service to West Virgin- ia is the critical component in choosing each Sharp Shooter because it shows the contender is not solely focused on their own success but that he or she is invested in the success of others and the state as a whole. WVE is proud to introduce the Sharp Shooters Class of 2018. If you know someone who is making an impact in their career and community, nominate them for next year’s class. Nom- inations are accepted year-round and can be submitted at www.wvexecutive.com/ sharp-shooter-nomination-form.  WWW.WVEXECUTIVE.COM SPRING 2018 89