“ While the worthy recipients credit their inspiration for success and community service to their family and upbringing , they themselves inspired everyone at the reception . Taking the time to pause and reflect on great people doing great things is so desperately needed today . The 90 minutes spent networking and celebrating people who make a difference was uplifting . The sense of community in West Virginia is heartwarming . There are people from all over the state who work in different professions with diverse backgrounds . Despite that , there is an obvious common thread that is an authentic passion for strengthening the state . Whether it is growing the economy and the network of jobs , building tourism and attraction to our beautiful environment or helping people find solutions , there is always someone willing to help .”
– Staci Miller , Director , West Virginia University Industrial Extension
“ This year ’ s reception was particularly rewarding in that it was one of the first major events I ’ ve attended since the start of the pandemic in March 2020 . It was great to see friends and associates that I haven ’ t seen in a long time . Also , I was so impressed by this year ’ s Sharp Shooters . This reinforces that there are people working day in and day out to make West Virginia a great place to live and work . West Virginia is a state where one person can make a difference . If they come up with a product or a program to create jobs or to enhance the quality of life in our state , there are enough state and local resources to help make their vision a reality .”
– Mike Clowser , Executive Director , Contractors Association of West Virginia
“ As the first in-person event I attended since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic , it was first and foremost wonderful to have the opportunity to directly interact with others in a social setting . Secondly , it is always so inspiring and uplifting to hear the stories and perspectives of the award recipients and the great things they are doing for our state . This was an opportunity to celebrate and honor West Virginia ’ s best and brightest , and it brought together individuals from across the state to share ideas and learn more about the great things that are happening .”
– Allison Ballard , Managing Partner , Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP
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