PARKERSBURG — Five residents from the region are in the 2024 class of Leadership West Virginia.

They are:

* Thomas Fish, West Virginia Army National Guard, Ripley.

* Krista Fleegle, Ritchie County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, St. Marys

* Kate Marlow, Wood County Economic Development Authority, Parkersburg

* Joe Sams, Biztec LLC, Washington, W.Va.

* Carrie Decker, Roane County Chamber of Commerce, Walton

Leadership West Virginia is a not-for-profit program affiliated with the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

Over seven months the class will study the key issues and industries in the state, including health care, education, tourism, government, the economy and energy and will enhance their leadership skills and work with more than 1,500 graduates of the program.

Fifty-six people from different sectors and regions of the state were selected from a pool of 100 applicants who demonstrated excellence in their fields, engagement in their communities and passion for the future of West Virginia, according to Pam Farris, executive director of Leadership West Virginia.

“We looked for candidates who had proven their leadership potential, achieved remarkable results in their careers, and contributed to the civic and social well-being of their communities,” Farris said.

Candidates for the program also have a vision and commitment to addressing challenges and opportunities facing West Virginia, she said.

“They are ready to learn, grow, and collaborate with their peers and mentors to make a positive impact on our state,” Farris said.