NC West Virginia News

One family is working to ensure West Virginia’s young people have the tools they need to become the next generation of innovators, creators, and entrepreneurs through a gift to West Virginia University Extension.

The Hayhurst Family Young Innovators Initiative has been established to enhance educational programming, financial assistance, coaching, and other support to transform the Mountain State into a hub for young innovators and budding entrepreneurs.

The $575,000 gift to WVU Extension will provide school- and community-based educational programs in 20 West Virginia schools, including 10 middle and 10 high schools, to engage students in hands-on learning experiences.

“Keeping our young people in West Virginia is so important,” Jim Davis, a member of the Hayhurst family, said. “We are excited to invest in building a pipeline of entrepreneurial thinkers who can bring their innovative spirit to existing and new ventures that move our state forward. We want young people to have the support they need to develop their creativity and passion in their home state.”

The gift provides funding for an annual statewide summit for youth and young adults. Participants will be part of the summit where they can connect with peers, engage in educational workshops and pitch preparation, interact with business leaders and entrepreneurs, and collaborate on hands-on projects. At the end of the summit, students will participate in a pitch competition.

Lauren Prinzo, WVU Extension assistant professor and community development specialist, will oversee the program. Prinzo shares a passion for helping youth create and execute ideas. She has worked alongside community partners and WVU colleagues to develop ‘My Hometown Is Cool’ and other entrepreneurship programs. She noted that the support of the Hayhurst family is a game changer for West Virginia youth.

“I want to thank Jim, Christy, and the entire Hayhurst family for their support of youth programming throughout the state. They truly understand the need to invest in our young people, particularly in youth entrepreneurship, and we are grateful to have this opportunity to bring our shared vision to life,” Prinzo said.

The WVU Morris L. Hayhurst LaunchLab also will contribute to the program by connecting college students and young adult entrepreneurs with resources and support.

Beginning in 2025, 10 counties will kick off the initiative. The goal is to engage 200 youth from these rural communities along with West Virginia 4-H’ers as well as 20 teachers who will work with WVU Extension agents, faculty members from WVU staff members community leaders across the state.

Jorge Atiles associate vice president dean Division Land-Grant Engagement WVU Extension eager begin new venture

“This donation will accelerate growth WVU Extension’s youth entrepreneurship programming across state excited work dynamic donors committed investing unlimited potential youth living rural communities”

Hayhurst Family Young Innovators gift made through WVU Foundation Christy Hayhurst Davis board member The WVU Foundation nonprofit organization receives administers private donations behalf University