Oh, The Places Jenna Will Go!

Appalachian Leadership Institute Class of 2025-2026 

If you have worked with Jenna Stewart, BB2C’s Career Pathway Specialist, this past year, you may have noticed she was always traveling (and if you know Jenna, she isn't a traveler). 

So what was she up to? 

Jenna was selected as one of the 40 fellows for the 25-26 Appalachian Leadership Institute. Each class of fellows brings together leaders in the public, private, or nonprofit sectors. All 13 Appalachian states are represented and brought together to build economic development skills, forge partnerships, and craft plans to strengthen their communities. 

For the past 8 months, Jenna has been out and about from Ashland, Kentucky, all the way down to Dalton, Georgia, learning about the barriers of our region and meeting innovative leaders living within it.

Jenna graduated from the institute in June in our very own neck of the woods, Charleston, West Virginia. Bringing a close to her adventures, but welcoming her into the alumni network of over 200 fellows (including our very own Tasha Werry!) 

Jenna Stewart, BB2C’s Career Pathway Specialist

“Congratulations to the Appalachian Leadership Institute Class of 2026! The dedication these fellows have demonstrated by actively participating in the institute will no doubt lead to stronger communities and a stronger Appalachian economy as a whole,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “I look forward to seeing these graduates draw from their experiences at ALI as they continue to drive positive change in our region.” 

We love seeing Jenna’s leadership in action at BB2C, with our schools, and in the future endeavors she will undertake.