Amy King
Charleston, W.Va.

Amy R. King worked as an auditor for PricewaterhouseCoopers in Richmond. After attending law school, she joined a large Charlotte firm and gained world-class experience in banking and finance law. However, she desired the unique combination of qualities that West Virginia offers to young professionals - a stimulating global work environment, affordable lifestyle, proximity to family and friends, immediate opportunities for community leadership, and the potential for limitless professional success. Amy returned to Charleston in 2006 and, as a new partner in a major regional law firm, is a superbly articulate spokesperson for her decision and a future leader of West Virginia.

~ Nominated by: David P. Ferretti and Michael J. Basile

In Feb. 2005, the WV Grantmakers Association proudly helped Shannon Cunningham "come home" from Nashville, TN, to be our first paid staff. Shannon is intelligent, vivacious and professional. Shannon would say, "I came home to West Virginia because West Virginia is where my heart is, where my family is, and where I know that my skills can make a real impact. There are good people in communities across West Virginia who work hard and care deeply about each other. I want to be a part of the great things happening there -- West Virginia needs me, and I need it."

Nominated by: Judy Sjostedt (colleague)

Shannon Cunningham
Weston, W.Va.

My name is Gary Lee Tolley. I lived in Europe and all around the U.S. while in the military. West Virginia is always home. My father moved away to find work, always wanting to return home, but died before he could. I have returned to West Virginia with my wife and we have opened several businesses here. We are always telling others how much we love it. I have written a song to honor my father and other West Virginia natives that moved and dream about coming home. I love West Virginia and I hope I can represent it to the world.

Nominated by: self

Gary Lee Tolley
Letart, W.Va.

John A. Tampoya, the son of Filipino immigrants, was born in Wheeling in 1956. In the early 1960s, Johns family moved to Morgantown, where he attended St. Francis School. John left to attend college and dental school, moving to California after graduation. However, John always yearned for home. In 1998, John convinced his wife that West Virginia would be a safer place to raise their children. In July 1998, John returned to West Virginia with his family, reacquainting with old friends and making many new ones. Currently, John and his family live in Morgantown, where he owns a fitness business.

Nominated by Jennifer Tampoya (wife)

John A. Tampoya
Morgantown, W.Va.

If you see the license plate "NWV2STAY" you've found our daughter Marilyn Wrenn. A "displaced" West Virginian for twelve years, she returned to her beloved state in 1996, and immediately began working in community and economic development. She believes that no West Virginian should feel forced to leave for economic reasons, and like her, that many would return if they perceive the slightest opportunity to do so. Marilyn can articulate the challenges as well as the benefits of choosing to be here. Her commitment and loyalty to West Virginia is undeniable. She's here to stay and can bring others home.

Nominated by K. Fred Wrenn (father)

Marilyn Wrenn
Charleston, W.Va.