Leadership Huntington

Leadership Huntington is a program offered through the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce that is designed to connect, develop, empower, and mobilize current and emerging leaders who are committed to making a difference in the Huntington region. The program is open to all individuals who live or work in Cabell or Wayne counties.

The program aims to bring together leaders from diverse industries and backgrounds to foster collaboration, promote community involvement, and develop a network of informed and engaged leaders. The curriculum is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the region's economic, social, and political landscape, while equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to tackle complex business challenges.

This is a 10-month program starting in September and ending in June. Participants meet once a month for a full day excluding a two-day orientation. Each session is organized around a theme and will be explored through speakers, discussions, field trips, and exclusive experiential activities.

2025-2026 Class

Eboni Bowens joined OVP Health in 2022 as a Human Resources Generalist and have now transitioned into the role of Acute Care Credentialing Specialist. OVP Health is a multi-faceted, physician-owned company. The Acute Care side provides an extensive range of emergency department and hospitalist staffing and management services in Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. OVP Health also offers CARF-accredited inpatient and outpatient medication-assisted treatment and counseling services; and operates primary care and after-hours medical facilities throughout West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, and Virginia. Eboni Bowens is originally from Georgia, but now proudly calls Huntington, WV home. She is a proud alum of Marshall University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care and her master’s degree in healthcare administration. She actively serves on the Ronald McDonald House Charities board and Branches Domestic Violence Shelter board. Eboni Bowens is passionate about continuing to build healthier communities.

Justin Carter is the Assistant to the Athletic Director and General Counsel at Marshall University, where he provides legal and strategic guidance to the Department of Athletics and the University’s Office of General Counsel. In this dual capacity, he supports compliance with NCAA regulations, university policies, and state and federal laws while also assisting in the coordination of key departmental initiatives and operations. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English from Washington & Jefferson College, where he was also a student-athlete, and went on to receive his Juris Doctor from Marquette University Law School, with a focus on sports law. He brings a diverse background in legal compliance, athletics administration, and higher education operations, making him a valued advisor and leader within the university community.

Isabel "Izzy" Cross is the Program Director and Head Chef of Huntington’s Kitchen. In her role, she is helping increase the Kitchen’s profile as a gathering place for cooking, connection, and health, as well as expanding educational and outreach programming for various audiences. Her background includes a wealth of training and experience. Isabel started cooking at a young age in her native Caracas, Venezuela, developing the talents that later culminated with her first business in college. The revenue from her small create-your-own-pizza shop helped pay for her bachelor’s degree at Andres Bello Catholic University. Inspired by the multicultural gourmet scene in Caracas, she decided to then attend culinary school and graduated from the Centro Venezolano de Capacitacion Gastronomica in 1999. After culinary school, “Izzy” moved to the United States, where she earned her Master’s degree in Organizational Communication from Marshall University in 2005. While completing her studies, she began teaching as an adjunct faculty member for the Marshall Culinary Arts program in 2004. Locally, she and husband Mark operate the renowned 21 at the Frederick in the historic Hotel Frederick in downtown Huntington. Featuring modern American cuisine, the restaurant has received “Best Steak” for 10 consecutive years in “Best of the Tri-State” voting conducted by the Herald-Dispatch newspaper.In addition, in 2011 Isabel led a team in the first Heritage Farm Cast Iron Cook-off that captured first place in the “Open Fire” division. Chef Cross’s team won the state competition in 2012 and in 2013 took first place in the “Throw Down” division. Since then, Isabel has served as a culinary judge in several cooking competitions around the state. She and her husband have two children, Fisher and Camila, and their four-legged kid, Dumpling.

Abbigail Davis is the Compass Program Director with the City of Huntington. Her commitment to serving her home state of West Virginia remains unwavering. In her new capacity as Compass Program Director, Abbigail is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of the city's police and firefighters. Compass Huntington, an innovative initiative, focuses on equipping first responders with the necessary tools to navigate the challenges of on-the-job stress. Through targeted interventions and comprehensive support systems, Compass aims to bolster the resilience and overall wellness of Huntington's first responders. Her academic journey began at West Virginia University, where she earned undergraduate degrees in Social Work and Multidisciplinary Studies, with minors in Women and Gender Studies, Leadership Studies, and Sociology. She then completed graduate degrees at West Virginia University, including a Master's in Social Work and a Master's in Public Administration.

Emily Davis is a Banking Center Manager at WesBanco Bank in Barboursville and has over ten years of experience in banking. In her role as a bank manager, Emily leads her team, manages the sales, services, and operations of the banking center, takes a part in helping to deepen all client relationships, and has an active role in getting out into the community. Emily has been an active part of the United Methodist Church in years past, attending Cox Landing United Methodist Church, and was on the Western District Lead Team for the UMC. She loves to volunteer, read, and spend time in nature. A native of Lesage, she now resides in Glenwood with her husband Jacob and their three children, son Jonah, and daughters, Adah and Louisa.

Cecil Diamond is a Graduate of Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College, Marshall University, Concord University, and most recently is a graduate of the Doctorate in Social Work Program at the University of Kentucky. Degrees conferred have been an associate in liberal arts, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a master’s in social work. His current position is outpatient Mental Health Therapist at Path Behavioral Healthcare in Lavalette West Virginia and Chesapeake Ohio. Cecil began practicing Social Work in Southern West Virginia in the year 2017 when he graduated from Marshall University and has remained in the area since that time. Cecil has worked in a variety of settings including outpatient mental health, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, and with at risk youths.

Allison Green is the Director of Development for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tri-State where she oversees the planning of fundraising events, donor relations, and individual giving programs. A native of Ashland, KY and a graduate of the University of Kentucky, Allison and her husband returned to the Tri-State area in 2020 where they currently reside in Ashland with their son Zeke. Upon her return Allison has spent the last five years working in Huntington and is passionate about serving the community. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, running, traveling, and spending time with her little family. Allison is looking forward to growing as a leader during her time in the Leadership Huntington program.

Greg Hanna has proudly served as a Branch Manager with Huntington Bank for over 15 years. In this role, he oversees all aspects of retail banking operations and provides tailored financial solutions to support the needs of small businesses. Huntington Bank’s mission to make people’s lives better and strengthen communities aligns directly with his personal work ethic and values. He is deeply committed to helping individuals and businesses thrive across our region. His dedication to service is evident not only in his professional role but also in his everyday efforts to uplift and empower the communities he serves.

Dr. Tarabeth Heineman is the Executive Director for the June Harless Center (JHC) for Rural Educational Research and Development, a program of the College of Education and Professional Development at Marshall University. The Center was established in 2000 to provide leadership in educational initiatives with the primary goal of elevating educational opportunities for every child in West Virginia. After joining the Harless team in the spring of 2005, Tarabeth has held various positions for the Center. Currently, Tarabeth leads a team of 18 staff members and 6 graduate assistants and directs the work of the JHC which focuses on early childhood education, early and early learning PreK-5, and STEAM education. She oversees an annual budget of approximately 2.5 million dollars which includes federal, state, and foundation funds. Under Tarabeth’s direction, the JHC also manages Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for the state of West Virginia. This statewide initiative has been a part of JHC programming since 2019. Tarabeth has participated in three study abroad tours to the world-renowned early childhood programs in Reggio Emilia, Italy. After collaborating with foundations and exploring other state funding opportunities, Dr. Heineman is working to support preservice and in-service early childhood educators in the implementation of the Reggio-inspired approach. She completed her doctorate at Marshall University with a degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 2022.

Karen Horner serves as the director of communication and outreach at Mountwest Community and Technical College. She has over 19 years of experience in higher education and workforce development. A proud Marshall University alumnus, she holds a Master of Science in Adult Education/Training and Development and in 2020 earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing from Ohio University. Beyond her role at Mountwest, she works part -time as a Registered Nurse at St. Mary's Medical Center. Additionally, she currently serves as a Chamber Ambassador for the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Joe Jarrell is a native of Huntington and has a strong connection to the community he’s proud to call home. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in sports management from Marshall University, followed by a master’s in journalism from the University of Colorado. With over a decade of experience spanning sales, marketing, and office administration, he now works as the Social Media and Marketing Manager at Forge, a West Virginia-based cybersecurity firm.

Raine Klover is a passionate advocate for community service and social change, with over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector. A West Virginian by choice, she holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Marshall University and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Huntington Children’s Museum. Raine’s career has been shaped by a diverse range of experiences—from volunteering with HIV/AIDS organizations in Seattle to working as a graphic designer and art gallery owner in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This varied background has strengthened her expertise in communications and public relations, enabling her to support the causes she cares about with creativity and strategic insight. With a strong foundation in nonprofit management, Raine has held several key leadership positions, including Assistant Manager at The Wild Ramp, Red Caboose Retail Manager at the Huntington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Director of Guest Services at the Huntington Museum of Art. She is a dedicated leader committed to serving the Huntington community by fostering resilience, strengthening connections, and advancing a more unified and sustainable future.

Megan Lemon is the Assistant Director of Recruitment at Marshall University. As a proud first-generation college graduate, Megan is passionate about helping students discover their potential and navigate their postsecondary opportunities. She holds degrees from Marshall University and Morehead State University. Before joining Marshall, she spent over a decade as a teacher and school counselor in Lawrence County, Ohio. A lifelong Tri-State resident, Megan lives in South Point, Ohio, with her husband, Jimmy, a 2023 Leadership Huntington alum, and their two sons, Isaac and Ian. As a family, they enjoy attending community events, dining at Huntington’s many great restaurants, and cheering on the Thundering Herd.

Steven Little serves as the Assistant Executive Director of the Huntington City Mission. After 13 years in corporate management with UPS in Lexington, KY, Steven felt called to church planting. Moving to Huntington with his family and 2 other families in 2017 to plant City Church Huntington, Steven was privileged to step into the role as the Huntington-area Recovery Coordinator for AmeriCorps VISTAs. Making strong connections along the way, Steven was then invited to manage a pilot project called STLR (Statewide Therapist Loan Repayment) for the WVDHHR’s Bureau of Behavioral Health. After building more strong connections, Steven was then invited to take on the role of Executive Director for the Huntington City Mission. As a formerly homeless person now with over 15 years in recovery and leadership, Steven’s passion is to see the transformational flourishing of the individuals that make up our beloved city.

Sydney MacCourtney is a Senior Quality Engineer at Alcon’s Huntington, WV manufacturing facility, where she leads root cause investigations in response to physician-reported product complaints. A native of Huntington, Sydney holds a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology and a Master's in Engineering Management from Johns Hopkins University. Beyond her professional role, Sydney is actively engaged in her community. She is a dedicated member of the Junior League and serves on the board of B'nai Sholom Temple. She lives in Huntington with her husband, Christian, and their dog, Boone.

Olivia Meade is the Executive Director of Lily’s Place, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by substance use. With over eight years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Olivia previously worked in fundraising and financial management. She brings a strong background in organizational leadership, program development, and community engagement. A native of Lincoln County, WV, Olivia holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Marshall University. She currently resides in Huntington, WV with her family, where she remains deeply committed to serving her community, local church, and advancing the mission of Lily’s Place.

Amber Miller serves as the Marketing & Development Manager at Prestera Health Services, the largest nonprofit behavioral health organization in West Virginia. In this role, she leads strategic marketing initiatives, oversees fundraising efforts, and played a key role in the successful rebranding of the organization to its current identity. Amber is passionate about being an advocate for accessible, compassionate care for the individuals and families Prestera serves. She earned her degree in Public Relations from West Virginia University. A native of Pennsylvania, Amber fell in love with West Virginia during her time at WVU and has proudly called the Mountain State home for more than two decades. Amber currently resides in Ashland, Kentucky with her boyfriend and his daughter. Together, they enjoy traveling for volleyball tournaments and cheering her on at various sporting events.

Stacy Miller is a seasoned professional with a rich background in executive support and banking. With over eight years of experience supporting top-tier leadership and more than two decades in the banking and financial services sector, Stacy brings a wealth of expertise to her role. Transitioning from a long tenure at Truist and BB&T to the manufacturing industry, Stacy now serves as an Executive Assistant at Service Wire Company. Known for her impeccable work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional collaboration skills, Stacy has a reputation for excellence. Stacy is a consummate leader, having effectively led teller teams and administrative staff, nurturing their professional growth through mentorship and guidance. Stacy's dedication to excellence and leadership has earned her a trusted position in every organization she has been a part of. During her time at Truist, Stacy served as Secretary and Treasurer of the Truist West Virginia Foundation, and organized Lighthouse Projects, which are annual community service events. These experiences inspired her to become more involved with non-profit and charitable organizations. In her downtime, Stacy enjoys quality time with her daughter and exploring new destinations through travel. Whether at work or in the community, Stacy's unwavering commitment to service, teamwork, and continuous improvement shines through.

Shawn Mount is a Commercial Banker with 19 years of experience and has been with Peoples Bank since 2017. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing and Economics from Marshall University. Prior to joining Peoples, Shawn spent seven years with JPMorgan Chase Bank. While at Chase Bank, he completed an 18-month Area Manger Training program and was the West Virginia representative on the National Leadership Council. Shawn is a 7-time President’s Club winner with Peoples Bank. He prides himself on providing educated and ethical financial solutions that create end value to the client and their business activities. Shawn resides in Milton, W.Va. with his wife (Monica) and two children (Madison and Garrett). Most of their free time is spent following their kids on the volleyball/basketball courts or baseball fields. Shawn serves on the Treasury Board at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, the Ona-Milton Little League Board, and the Milton Youth Basketball League Board. He also coaches 13u travel baseball, based out of Huntington.

Isabel Morris serves as the Development & Membership Coordinator at the Huntington Museum of Art, where she supports fundraising efforts, strengthens donor engagement, and promotes the Museum’s mission through community outreach. She also runs Mission Media, her freelance business that specializes in branding and content creation for nonprofits and small businesses. A graduate of Marshall University with a degree in advertising and public relations, Isabel has a strong background in creative strategy, community-focused messaging, and donor database administration with experience in higher education, tourism, and nonprofit sectors. As a proud Appalachian and a Huntington resident since 2020, she is passionate about using the arts to foster community connections and is dedicated to promoting the Huntington region as a vibrant, welcoming place to live and visit.

Andy Mullins, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, CNL, Interim Chief Nursing Officer for Marshall Health Network (MHN) and previous Vice President of Nursing and Patients Services at St. Mary’s Medical Center. He has 21 years of nursing experience including 6 years of leadership and is passionate about quality healthcare, innovation, and technology. Andy graduated from Marshall University with a BSN, and Ohio University with a MSN in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner and a DNP- Executive Leadership. He is a member of the WVHA Quality Committee, American and WV Nurses Association, American Association of Nurse Practitioners, and has completed the WVHA and MHN Leadership Programs. Andy has led the implementation of several practice and process changes within nursing and patient care departments to enhance patient care and decrease workforce challenges. Andy is an authentic leader who is responsible for leading MHN nursing and patient services teams in advancing evidence-based healthcare that inspires hope and serves our communities.

Kenzie Roland, a West Virginia transplant, graduated from West Virginia University with a Master’s degree in Energy Environments with certificates in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and University Teaching in 2024. She is currently employed with the City of Huntington as a Planner, where she assists the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals with their petitions and works directly with the public as it pertains to planning, zoning, and development within the City. Outside of work, Kenzie enjoys spending time with her husband Coby and their dog Porter, advising the Alpha Omicron Pi chapter at WVU, and supporting local businesses in Huntington.

Latisha Rowsey is the Associate Director at the Huntington YMCA, where she focuses on membership, marketing, and human resources. Latisha has been part of the YMCA team since 2007. She’s passionate about the Y’s mission and the many ways it supports and strengthens the community. Latisha attended Marshall University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree. She lives in Huntington with her husband Matt and their three children—Abby, Blake, and Cole. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family or coaching her kids’ teams at the Y.

Taylor Strickland Chambers is a proud Kenova, West Virginia native and graduate of Spring Valley High School. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from Marshall University, where she also played on the women’s volleyball team. After college, she spent six years coaching before moving into fund development with the Big Green Scholarship Foundation. With experience beyond the family business, Taylor eventually returned to her roots—opening a second location of Austin’s Homemade Ice Cream, Austin’s at The Market, alongside her brother. Today, she co-owns the original location with her mother and brother, proudly continuing the legacy started by her grandmother. As a third-generation owner, Taylor is passionate about leading a woman-founded business and carrying forward her family’s entrepreneurial spirit. Taylor serves on the Board of Directors for the National Ice Cream Association and has been a lifelong volunteer with the Wayne County Special Olympics. She resides in Huntington with her husband, Trey Chambers, and their two beloved dogs, Jude and Ruby.

Dave Wiley is the General Manager of Dave & Buster’s in Barboursville, bringing over 26 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Prior to joining Dave & Buster’s, he served as Director of Restaurant Operations for Bare Restaurants. Originally from Central Ohio, Dave relocated to the Tri-State area 11 years ago while working for a large national restaurant brand. He proudly serves on the Board of Directors for Goodwill Industries of KYOWVA Area and is always looking ways to be involved in the community. Outside of work, David enjoys spending time at the lake with family and friends, and cheering on Ohio State football.

Christina Yowman is a Designer with Edward Tucker Architects in Huntington. A native of Port Arthur, Texas, she attended Prairie View A&M University, earning Master’s Degrees in Architecture and Community Development. During her studies, she interned in the City of Houston’s Public Works department, presided over the Omega Gamma Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and studied the works of Le Corbusier in France. Christina began her professional career with a building systems engineering firm in Houston, specializing in plumbing and electrical design for four years. She continued her career with a Texas firm specializing in healthcare architecture, and realized her passion for the complexities of designing healthcare environments and working with stakeholders at different levels. In 2023, Christina relocated to Huntington to work with Edward Tucker Architects in their healthcare studio. She is passionate about expanding rural healthcare and reflecting the rich culture of Appalachia by designing spaces that cater to the community and fit into the landscape.

2026 Session topics

Tourism

Workforce Development

Healthcare

Manufacturing

State & Local Government

Education

Arts & Media

Class of 2024-2025

hrcc-leadershiphuntingtongraduation-50-2

Pictured left to right (front): Mendy Aluise, Charles Walker, Zach Robinson, Sarah-Frances Lyons, Jacob Curnutte, Leslie Comer-Porter, Jake Aganus, Katie Keefer, Suzanne House, Ryan Mayo, Anna Adkins, Megan Archer

Pictured left to right (back): Andrew Smith, Deacon Stone, John Null, Brad Merritt, Stephanie Hurley Collier, Anna Ford, Shelli Fox, Rory Chapman, Matt James, Anna Price, Jimmy Lemon

Inaugural Class: 2023-2024

Pictured left to right (back): Andrew Smith, Deacon Stone, John Null, Brad Merritt, Stephanie Hurley Collier, Anna Ford, Shelli Fox, Rory Chapman, Matt James, Anna Price, Jimmy Lemon