By Maggie Matsko Susan HELLEMS Lavenski, CEO and owner of Charles Ryan Associates (CRA), credits her success to the grace of God, hard work, determination and the help of many people. As a Lewisburg native, Lavenski’s desire to climb the ranks was instilled in her as a very young girl. “I definitely received my work…
State Surgeon, West Virginia Army National Guard Emergency Department Physician, Jackson General Hospital By Samantha Cart Steven Eshenaur knew without a doubt he would become a doctor, but he never imagined a medical career would lead him to a life of service as the state surgeon for the West Virginia Army National Guard (WVARNG). “After…
Dean and Professor University of Charleston School of Pharmacy By Katlin Swisher Dr. Michelle Easton moved to West Virginia in 2005 in pursuit of greater challenges. A New Orleans, LA, native and graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, she worked in a community pharmacy for five years before returning to Xavier for her doctor of…
Vice President Minghini’s General Contractors, Inc. By Kevin Duvall When asked what characteristics have most influenced her success, Berniece Collis’ answer is simple: “A genuine desire to see others succeed. When others succeed, we all succeed.” It is this focus on community that drives Collis, vice president and co-owner of Minghini’s General Contractors, to make…
Managing Member Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC By Samantha Cart Growing up in Fairmont, WV, Michael Basile’s career goals in his youth included racing cars and playing golf professionally until a career aptitude test—and a very prudent father—steered him toward the study of law. “I had a textbook, American-dream upbringing,” he says. “I had two…
Principal and Co-Founder AlignHR, LLC By Alicia Elkin Zach Abraham, principal and co-founder of AlignHR, LLC, has many personal and professional goals, but for him, the one that rises above all others is helping West Virginia become a thriving economic state. “This is where I was born and raised, and it’s the place I call…