Joe Severino

For almost three years now, RealWV has had the privilege of working with Joe Severino. On more than one occasion, I have referred to Joe as the future of storytelling in West Virginia. And on more than one occasion, Joe has proven me right. 

Whether he was shining a light on the floods in Campbells Creek, or celebrating the young advocates of tomorrow on Black Policy Day – or whether he was getting dirty in Dunbar during the “Commode Bowl,” or introducing a whole new audience to the music of Jeff Stevens – Joe told West Virginia’s stories with compassion, and without flinching. 

In addition to writing for both RealWV and Black By God, Joe has dedicated himself to the young people of the Kanawha Valley through his work with Read Aloud WV, a program designed to motivate students to discover the joy of reading. And as that mission has become perhaps more important than ever before, true to form, Joe has answered the call to serve his community. 

Joe’s devotion to that work means, at least for now, he will be stepping away from the typewriter. And for as much as we will miss him, we could not be prouder of the path he has chosen. 

So on behalf of all of us at RealWV – and our extended family of readers – thank you, Joe. Now you have a lot more storytelling to do.

Have someone you’d like to nominate? Email us at news@therealwv.com.