WVCA President Bill Raney spoke to the 2014 Class of the Hugh O’Brian Leadership Seminar at Marshall University in Huntington June 6. The seminar began in 1978 with sophomores from 45 high schools throughout the state in attendance. From these beginnings, the seminar has grown each year to include annually more than 130 Ambassadors.
During the 4-day seminar, Ambassadors interact with state leaders in business, industry, government and the service sector. The seminar provides many opportunities for ambassadors to enhance their leadership skills by acting as moderators for panels and engaging in intellectual discussions with leaders from the community. Ambassadors also participate in a hands-on community service project to help them realize the personal and social benefits of volunteerism and service.