As we move through this milestone year for our nation, we are reminded that West Virginia’s story has always been intertwined with America’s story, carried by leaders who understand that building a business here also means strengthening a community.
For 250 years, the American experiment has depended on leaders willing to build, to risk and to invest in their communities. That tradition runs deep here. From small family-owned companies to major employers shaping entire regions, West Virginia’s business community carries forward a legacy of hard work and independence that continues to define our future.
This issue of Chamber Magazine reflects that enduring spirit of leadership. Our cover story features Michael T. Benson and his vision for the future of West Virginia University, strengthening academic excellence, preparing the next generation of leaders and reinforcing the university’s role as a cornerstone of economic growth.
As America marks its 250th anniversary, West Virginia is helping lead the national celebration. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito serves on the United States Semiquincentennial Commission, ensuring our state has a voice during this historic moment. The West Virginia Chamber is also highlighting our state’s role in Revolutionary-era events and encouraging residents to explore the people and places that connect us to our nation’s founding ideals of liberty and justice.
While we honor that legacy, we remain focused on the future. Chamber members consistently tell us their No. 1 issue impacting business is workforce. Developing, attracting and retaining talent is essential to sustained growth, and it remains a top priority of our advocacy efforts. We are proud to stand alongside partners taking meaningful action, like the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce’s Comeback Club, working to strengthen workforce participation, and the expansion of Vandalia Health, one of the state’s largest employers, investing in the health and stability of our workforce.
In this issue, we highlight the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, which recently marked its 25th anniversary, and spotlight continued momentum in the “Jewel City” of Huntington.
At the West Virginia Chamber, our restructured Committees and Working Groups reflect a stronger, more strategic approach to policy and long-term growth. Our membership, employing more than half of West Virginia’s workforce, forms a powerful coalition of job creators committed to expanding opportunity and protecting free enterprise.
Just as our forefathers envisioned 250 years ago, we will continue to champion policies that protect free enterprise and create the conditions for West Virginia businesses to grow. We stand firmly with leaders who stand with job creators committed to a future defined by strength, prosperity and opportunity for all.
Steve Roberts
President, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce