A leading national digital technology magazine has recognized Charles Ryan Associates (CRA) co-owner and CEO Susan Lavenski as one of the country’s leading entrepreneurs.
Lavenski, a Lewisburg native and two-time graduate of Marshall University, was recently named one of Industry Era magazine’s “2019 10 Best Entrepreneurs of the Year.” https://www.industry-era.com/vendor-2019-Entrepreneurs-The-Role-Model-for-All.php
Lavenski also has garnered state recognition, having been tapped to be commencement speaker for Marshall University’s 2019 graduation ceremonies Saturday, May 11, in Huntington.
Lavenski has been with the brand communications firm CRA for more than 20 years, taking over from company founder Charles Ryan.
“Charlie Ryan had a vision to grow this business from a one-person public relations shop to a multi-disciplined agency, serving clients across the country,” Lavenski told Industry Era. “Today, we are one of the largest communications and women-owned firms in our region.”
CRA maintains offices in Charleston, West Virginia; Richmond, Virginia; Columbus, Ohio; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The company employs more than 40 people.
“We tailor communications plans to each and every client,” Lavenski said. “We don’t believe in the cookie-cutter approach. Every client deserves an individual plan, born out of experience and tailored to meet specific needs and budget.”
Lavenski, who will serve as keynote commencement speaker for Marshall University’s 2019 graduation ceremonies next month, graduated from the university with a bachelor’s degree in public relations journalism and a master’s degree in political science. She was inducted into the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism’s hall of fame in 2017.
Lavenski credits Marshall University and her education with providing the keys to her success. “It is an honor to give back to an institution that has been such a huge part of my life,” Lavenski said.
Lavenski grew up in Lewisburg, the daughter of Benny and the late Dottie Hellems. She currently lives in Hurricane, with her husband, Terry, of Moundsville, and their son, Trenton. Their oldest son, Travis, and stepdaughter, Brittany Lavenski Dick, both reside in Morgantown.
For more information about CRA, visit www.charlesryan.com.
