In the heart of West Virginia, a remarkable story of collaboration, innovation, and community is unfolding, thanks to the connections and opportunities fostered by Ascend WV.
This unique program—which encourages talented professionals to relocate and build their lives in West Virginia—has not only led to personal transformations but also to the creation of new businesses and events that truly showcase the state’s vibrant, thriving communities and its tenacious spirit of inclusivity.
KX Strategies – A New Business, A Shared Vision
Ascend WV members Leon Kaye and Nick Lennox’s journey to West Virginia began in November 2023 when they both moved to Elkins from California and Massachusetts, respectively. The two were not only on the same career trajectory but shared a passion for communications and a vision for a new way of working. From frequent meetings at local Ascend events organized by their coordinator, Jessica Sutton, to running into each other at the Common Door coworking space and the many, many rounds of disc golf played, the two realized their individual skills complemented each other perfectly.
Kaye and Lennox launched KX Strategies, a communications advisory firm built from their 25 years of shared experience across a variety of different industries. The firm works with organizations in sectors ranging from energy and technology to supporting West Virginia’s growing outdoor economy. What started as a friendly ride to the airport one snowy January day has evolved into a dynamic business with roots firmly planted in the Mountain State. As Nick put it, “It didn’t take long for us to see how Elkins was the prime location to start our agency.”
KX Strategies leverages its strengths to empower leaders of organizations to do better—not just in their own businesses—but in their local communities and society as a whole.
Pictured (from left): Ascend Greater Elkins members Nick Lennox, Paul Soldo, Amie Dillon, Leon Kaye, Chelsea Ferron, and Jennifer Wingerberg harvesting a Christmas tree from the Monongahela National Forest.
Born from the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC) and in collaboration with the West Virginia Department of Tourism and West Virginia University, Ascend WV provided the spark that ignited this dynamic connection. Both entrepreneurs credit the program for not only introducing them to one another but for laying the foundation for their business—one they hope will grow, evolve, and continue to hire local talent.
The Whizzbangers Ball
While the success of KX Strategies highlights one of the many professional opportunities fostered by Ascend WV, the Whizzbangers Ball showcases the program’s power to bring people together in celebration of West Virginia’s unique outdoor lifestyle and culture. Organized by Ascend Greenbrier Valley alum Ben Isenberg and Greenbrier Ascend Coordinator Ryan King, this inaugural music festival kicked off in June 2024 and drew more than 5,000 attendees to the Summit Bechtel Reserve.
Photos courtesy of WhizzbangBAM.
The Whizzbangers Ball was more than just a festival—it was a community-driven event that celebrated the very essence of West Virginia and its people. Attendees enjoyed outdoor activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and archery, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the region and connecting with the individuals that make this place so special. The event’s lineup featured Appalachian artists under the WhizzbangBAM umbrella, including Arlo McKinley, Tommy Prine, John R. Miller, and Darrin Hacquard—among so many talented others—with a powerful headline performance by Tyler Childers that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Much like KX Strategies, the Whizzbangers Ball wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the local community.
“The event was a true collective effort that garnered a supportive and enthusiastic response,” Ben Isenberg said. “Volunteers, both local and from afar, contributed significantly to the festival’s success, while many neighboring organizations not only backed the inaugural event but also received substantial support directly from it.”
Some of the organizations that benefited from the ball included the Science Adventure School, Greenbrier Valley Off-Road Biking Association, The Child and Youth Advocacy Center, Wellspring of Greenbrier, Inc., 5 Points Music Sanctuary, Recovery Point West Virginia, Seed Sower, Inc., and the Genesis Recovery Kentucky Center, just to name a few. Their participation underscored the very essence of what this community is all about, further showcasing the power of what a collaborative effort can bring to life.
Ascend members and local community friends gathered at the Whizzbangers Ball, June 14-15, 2024.
“Reflecting on the festival, the most gratifying aspect was the celebration of West Virginia, my new home,” said Isenberg. “Moving to West Virginia because of the Ascend program has been one of the best decisions of my life. It has given me the opportunity to pursue a high quality of life, engage in outdoor adventures, and build a meaningful community. I am grateful for the support of Ascend WV, Ryan King, my many new friends in West Virginia, and everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. West Virginia truly feels like home now, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Building a Lasting Legacy – Together
Success stories like KX Strategies and the outpouring of positive feedback from those who attended the Whizzbanger’s Ball illustrate the profound impact Ascend WV has made in the lives of its members and the communities throughout the Mountain State. The program doesn’t just connect people with shared professional interests—it promotes involvement and the type of communal engagement that makes West Virginia feel like home no matter where you’re from.
This is what the Wing 2 Wing Foundation was built on and why Alys and Brad D. Smith remain steadfast in creating programs and organizations that ensure the people who make this region so extraordinary continue to thrive. Spotlighting the true nature of the Appalachians, its residents, and all it has to offer to the rest of the world is our mission—welcoming in all who choose to explore it with open arms is just who we are.
For Kaye and Lennox, their journey together is just the beginning—and the inaugural Whizzbangers Ball? A vibrant reflection of the cultural richness that makes West Virginia such a special place for both long-time residents and newcomers.
While this is just one example of the many opportunities to engage with the Mountain State’s incredible communities, events like this highlight why so many are choosing to call the Mountain State home.
Can You Picture Yourself in #AlmostHeaven?
Ascend WV is more than a program—it’s a movement that inspires its members to pursue new opportunities while making lasting contributions to the place they’ll quickly find themselves embracing as their own. This is your chance to see why so many are choosing to live in the mountains.
Learn more about how to converge your story with Ascend WV’s, and if you’re a student, check out First Ascent. We can’t wait to see you here.