Meet the SPARK 250 Team

Benjamin McElroy

Ben McElroy is SPARK 250’s CRO, working to bring in the resources that keep the mission moving. From Huntington, WV, he loves spending his free time sightseeing across West Virginia and soaking in the state’s natural beauty.

Skylar Elliot

Skylar Elliot is SPARK 250’s Geocaching Project Lead, bringing history to life through innovative treasure hunts. From Hurricane, WV, she loves exploring the beauty of her home state through road trips across West Virginia.

Caleb Ferguson

Caleb is SPARK 250’s Government Relations Director from Salt Rock, WV. A history enthusiast, he also enjoys collecting political memorabilia and uncovering pieces of the past.

Kayleigh Garcia

Kayleigh is SPARK 250’s Chief Marketing Officer and the creative mind behind the official logo. From Cowen, WV, she loves using art to bring history to life. Fun fact: she once painted a mural of The Birth of Venus in high school!

M. David Haynes

David Haynes is from Charleston, WV. He is SPARK 250’s Music Competition Director, leading all operations for the Song Competition. His passion for music runs deep—not only is he directing the competition, but he also plays five instruments!

Mark Hysell

Mark Hysell, from Milton, WV, is the Director of Videography for SPARK 250. He plays a key role in sharing history through digital media. When he’s not behind the camera, he’s exploring his fascination with the history of ancient and modern Europe.

Gentry Porter

Gentry Porter is the financial officer at SPARK 250, LLC, managing resources for events celebrating America's 250th birthday. Born in Louisville, KY, and raised in Huntington, WV, Gentry balances finance with a passion for philosophy, language, and piano.

Maria Ramey

Maria Ramey designed SPARK 250’s website and manages its social media. She blends creativity and strategy to connect history with today’s audience. She was born and raised in Barboursville, WV and here’s a fun fact—she has a twin brother!