‘Turning challenges into opportunities,’ WVU celebrates expansion of Ascend WV to Charleston and Kanawha County

Tapping into the Mountaineer spirit which is built on a strong sense of community, West Virginia University- in collaboration with state and local leaders - is expanding the successful Ascend West Virginia programfor worker recruitment and retention into Kanawha County.

With the addition announced Friday (Sept. 5), both Ascend West Virginia and First Ascentare now accepting applications for the Charleston area and Kanawha County. The site joins previously announced Ascend locations for the New River Gorge, Greater Elkins, Morgantown Area, Eastern Panhandle and Greenbrier Valley.

"In line with our land-grant mission, WVU is proud to serve as the day-to-day operational lead for two programs focused on bringing talented people to live and work in West Virginia," Vice Provost Mark Gavinsaid.

Ascend West Virginia is the first and only multi-location talent attraction and recruitment program in the United States, while First Ascent is leading the way for in-state retention of new graduates.

Together, both programs have drawn nearly 65,000 applicants, relocated upwards of 950 new residents, and kept 60 graduates in West Virginia, boasting above a 96% retention rate. Notably, 38% of participants also are West Virginia homeowners.

"What began as a vision to advance the state's economy and enhance quality of life through outdoor recreation and community is taking shape in key locations across the state. We are now looking ahead to begin the journey to Ascend and First Ascent's next 1,000 participants," said Danny Twilley, assistant vice president of economic, community and asset development for the WVU Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative.

"Our success would not be possible without the power of collaboration and partnerships. We are incredibly grateful to not only the Wing 2 Wing Foundation and the state of West Virginia, but also the Charleston Area Alliance, with support from Kanawha County and the City of Charleston. Together, we celebrate a united commitment to economic and community development throughout the state."

The existing site for the Charleston Area Alliance will serve as "base camp" for the Metro Valley region. Home to coworking space and programming, all location base camps become the heart of each Ascend community.

Ellen Cappellanti, a longtime WVU leader and supporter, member of Jackson Kelly PLLC and Charleston Area Alliance board chair, said those with the organization are proud to be part of this initiative and look forward to welcoming more workers, families and opportunities to the Kanawha Valley.

"This is a vital effort to strengthen our business community, and we are grateful to join the Ascend WV team," she said.

Mara Boggs, a University alumnus and president and CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance, said the partnerships represent the pinnacle of collaboration and operational excellence while addressing population loss - one of the state's most persistent challenges.

"With a $500 million economic impact and nearly 1,000 new West Virginians brought to the state in four years, we are thankful to help provide this same level of success to the Charleston area," Boggs said.

"Ascend WV shows that, when West Virginians work together, we turn our challenges into opportunities."

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MEDIA CONTACT: Katie FarmerExecutive Director of Strategic PrioritiesWVU Strategic Communications and Marketing315-256-8509; [email protected]

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