community
Photo by Seth Stover.
Awards Reception
Written by Megan Bevins
Photo by Kenzie Dye.
West Virginia’ s young professionals drive the state forward through their innovative thinking, hard work and motivation to leave the state better than they found it. West Virginia Executive( WVE) magazine’ s annual Young Guns awards program aims to highlight and honor individuals who excel in their careers and work diligently to serve the communities they call home.
To be chosen as a Young Gun, nominees must be 43 years of age or younger at the time of their induction. They must also have resided and worked in the state for at least two years, done outstanding work in their professions and contributed significantly to their communities. The Young Guns Class of 2026 contains 10 Mountain State residents who display what it means to give back and help the state prosper.
On November 18, 2025, WVE celebrated the Young Guns Class of 2026 at the West Virginia Culture Center
in Charleston. This year’ s inductees were Andria Alvarez Wymer, director of strategic initiatives and planning at Energy Transportation, LLC and Applied Construction Solutions, Inc.; Katie Bailey, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Peoples Bank; Sean Hornbuckle, financial advisor at Edward Jones and house democratic leader for the West Virginia Legislature; David Klick, market president at WesBanco; Lindsey Lebo, director of marketing for Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races; Nick Presley, attorney for Jackson Kelly PLLC; Sarah Rogers, president and CEO of BlaineTurner Advertising; Andrew Sealy, president of Cardinal Creative; Jessica Silber, development director for the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra; and Sheanna Spence, chief marketing officer at Marshall Health and Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine.
Award winners were photographed at many unique Upshur County locations for the Young Guns photoshoot, including Cebe Ross Field, Artistry on Main, Audra State Park, the Wesley Chapel and the West Virginia State Wildlife Center.
As they move forward in their careers, this year’ s Young Guns will continue igniting change and success in the Mountain State. With their expertise and drive, these 10 individuals are sure to create a brighter future for their fellow West Virginians. •
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