The State Journal and Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin recognized Alissa Clayton, an owner of The Custard Stand-Flatwoods, and 39 others for their leadership in a ceremony at West Virginia Culture Center on Thursday, March 31, 2016.

For 11 years, The State Journal has dedicated the Generation Next: 40 Under 40 program to highlighting a group of young professionals who push forward every day with their dreams and plans to make West Virginia a better place.

Alissa owns The Custard Stand in Flatwoods with her husband, Seth Clayton. She is the daughter of Dee and Angie Cowger, owners of Custard Stand Food Products and The Custard Stand Restaurants. At age 26, she is the second youngest person on the 2016 list and the youngest woman. Read Alissa’s 40 Under 40 profile.

Gov. Tomblin spoke briefly about the need for young leaders and entrepreneurs to West Virginia’s economic stability and success. The Governor then posed with each of the honorees.