Amanda Hawkins

If the notion of “strength” could take human form, it would look exactly like Amanda Hawkins. 

Not only is Amanda the second Charley Clayton Memorial Peep Festival ambassador, but she is also the first ever Mannington District Fair Ambassador, and the first ever M.T. Pockets Theatre Ten Minute Play Festival Ms. 

Despite having been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 29, Amanda maintains her job at McDonalds, where she has been offering warm smiles to her community for years. In addition to working, her responsibilities as Ambassador keeps her quite busy on West Virginia’s Fairs and Festivals circuit. 

“Amanda is one of the most positive and delightful people I know,” Marion County Delegate Joey Garcia told us. “I always enjoy seeing her spreading joy at parades in the county.”

For being a beacon of hope to those whose lives she touches, and her unwavering refusal to quit in the face of adversity, The RealWV is proud to name Amanda Hawkins as the certified Real West Virginian of the Week. 

Would you like to nominate someone for a future week? Email us at news@therealwv.com.