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 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 to resources and support.

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

Jorge Atiles, associate vice president and dean of the Division for Land-Grant Engagement and WVU Extension, is eager to begin this new venture.

“This donation will accelerate the growth of WVU Extension’s youth entrepreneurship programming across the state. We are excited to work with dynamic donors who are committed to investing in the unlimited potential of our youth living in rural communities.”

The Hayhurst Family Young Innovators gift was made through the WVU Foundation, of which Christy Hayhurst Davis is a board member. The WVU Foundation is the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.

To learn more about how to support WVU Extension and its programs, contact Lauren Seiler, director for development.