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“ Ascend West Virginia offers one of the most unique arrays of benefits focused on community , purpose and outdoor recreation ,” says Huguenin . “ Our program is the only one we are aware of that is working in multiple locations throughout a state , which really broadens our impact .”
To ensure the program ’ s success in the long run , the Ascend team is actively working with local convention and visitors bureaus , government officials and economic development groups . Not only will the program benefit future Ascenders , but it strives to make outdoor recreation more accessible for current residents while sealing the deal for future residents .
“ A part of our effort is making West Virginia the premier state to live , work and play . Our outdoor recreation resources provide us with something that is valuable , rare and hard to imitate , thus making it a competitive advantage ,” says Twilley . “ The OEDC , in partnership with the state tourism office , local communities and land agencies , is actively working to increase access to our tremendous outdoor recreation assets .”
What ’ s next for Ascend West Virginia ? Twilley explains that building off the success of Ascend , the team is currently developing a program designed to keep graduating West Virginia college students in the state . This retention would have an incredible impact on individual lives , communities and the Mountain State as a whole .
“ A program like Ascend has a lot of direct impacts , but the indirect impacts often get overlooked ,” says Twilley . “ A program like this is building off the work of so many by shouting from the top of our mountains to let the world know that West Virginia is one of the best places to live an outdoor-driven lifestyle where community matters and our people are special .” •
Photo by Brenna Marie Photography .
" We are fortunate to be selected by the Ascend program and be back home in West Virginia . The program highlights the outdoor lifestyle and rich culture available to remote workers looking to change their setting . We have friends that are excited to apply and move to West Virginia ." – Matt Worden , Ascend Morgantown Inaugural Class
Bailes , Craig , Yon & Sellards , PLLC is delighted to congratulate
firm partner ,
Rob Sellards ,
and the 2022 Class of Lawyers & Leaders .
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