Talent Transplant
When Dr. Michael Benson stepped into his role as president of West Virginia University (WVU), he did so with a clear mission: to honor the legacy of the institution while preparing it for a bold, forward-facing future. With more than two decades of leadership in higher education and a rich personal history shaped by travel, family and a love for learning, Benson brings to Morgantown a deep appreciation for the power of education to change lives.
Future Forward
With new growth, investments, expansions and partnerships emerging throughout the region, the Eastern Panhandle is experiencing remarkable growth. Through efforts that help business thrive, education advance and communities flourish, progress is steady in this tight-knit corner of the Mountain State.
Young Guns Reloaded: Christian Asam, Class of 2008
In 2018, Christian Asam was recognized as a West Virginia Executive Young Gun, an early acknowledgment of his leadership
and vision at the Bavarian Inn. Since then, he has actively worked to expand the inn and enhance its amenities.
Learning Together
Most children follow a traditional academic calendar: nine months of classes followed by a two-month summer break before advancing to the next grade. Year-round schools, however, take a different
approach—students receive the same number of days off, but their breaks are divided into shorter, three-week intervals spread throughout the year. In West Virginia, Piedmont Elementary is the only school currently running on a year-round schedule.
Teachers Ascend into West Virginia
Most children follow a traditional academic calendar: nine months of classes followed by a two-month summer break before advancing to the next grade. Year-round schools, however, take a different
approach—students receive the same number of days off, but their breaks are divided into shorter, three-week intervals spread throughout the year. In West Virginia, Piedmont Elementary is the only school currently running on a year-round schedule.
Hope for the Future
“I just didn’t see a path for myself,” says Anthony. “I was making Bs and Cs in school, but I wasn’t excited about anything. I had no real goals after high school, and I definitely didn’t think much was possible for me in West Virginia.”