West Virginia Executive Summer 2016 | Page 95

Samantha Cart Leading the Way Introducing the Inaugural Class If you listen to the news or check the headlines, you’re likely to hear about West Virginia’s struggling economy, decreasing population, state budget deficit and lack of available jobs. What you probably won’t find on the front page are the amazing people who are working to make the Mountain State a better place to live, work, play and stay. Since 1999, West Virginia Executive magazine (WVE) has been recognizing young professionals who contribute to the state’s success with its Young Guns honor program in an effort to highlight the positive, exciting things occurring every day in our great state. After many requests, the publishers have decided it’s time to induct the first class of Sharp Shooters. Sharp Shooters are West Virginians who are older than 43 who have forged a path to success and accomplished great things in both their careers and communities. These people represent what is great about the past and exciting about the future of West Virginia. Choosing only 10 members out of a pool of deserving nominees is no easy task, so WVE developed a strict set of criteria. Sharp Shooters must have lived in the state and been in their current West Virginia-based job for at least five years and must actively participate in community service and philanthropic efforts. Service is an integral part of what sets a Sharp Shooter apart, as service is a proven catalyst for change. This exceptional group of people is committed to making strides for the Mountain State, collectively giving hundreds if not thousands of hours of service—as well as financial support—to the state they call home. They embody discipline, drive, charity, focus, ambition and strong principles. WVE is proud to introduce the inaugural Sharp Shooters Class of 2016 and celebrate the achievements of these men and women and the future they are working to create. If you know someone who fits the Sharp Shooters criteria, nominate them for next year’s class. Nominations are accepted year-round and can be submitted at www.wvexecutive.com/ sharp-shooter-nomination-form. www.wvexecutive.com summer 2016 93