Letter from the
Not long after that event, I had the opportunity to travel with our longtime photographer and creative partner, Tracy Toler, to Washington, D. C., where we met Emily at the newly renovated Smithsonian’ s National Air and Space Museum to photograph her for this issue, which is focused on artificial intelligence and technology. To photograph such an accomplished ambassador of West Virginia in a place where innovation and imagination are celebrated felt like a perfect, full-circle moment. l.
This spring, I had the joy of seeing one of West Virginia’ s brightest stars, Emily Calandrelli, speak at the Parkersburg Art Center, with my daughter, Quinn; our family friend, Angela Vance; and her daughter, Alia Ross. Watching Emily light up a room full of children and families with her love for science, storytelling and space was truly unforgettable. For our kids— mine especially, who are currently enjoying“ Xploration Outer Space” and want to be astronauts for Halloween— seeing someone from our home state chasing big dreams on a national stage is inspiring.
Emily represents the very best of what we hope for in our children’ s futures: curiosity, kindness, courage and the commitment to persevere in achieving their dreams. As a mother, it’ s heartwarming to watch my children see someone like Emily and realize,“ She’ s from here. I can do that too.”
Emily is a scientist, author, television host and advocate— but above all, she’ s a trailblazer. She makes us proud to be West Virginians, and I’ m excited to see what mission she takes on next. I know three little fans who will be watching closely. •
Kensie Hamilton Fauber Publisher
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WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE