We are excited to welcome two outstanding new team members to The EdVenture Group, Kylee Hassan and Peyton Smith, who are joining us as Program Coordinators!
Kylee brings extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, where she has dedicated her career to supporting youth and families – particularly those impacted by foster, kinship, and adoptive care. Her strengths in advocacy, outreach, and systems navigation will be instrumental in enhancing our innovation and entrepreneurship portfolio in exciting new ways.
Peyton comes to us with a strong background in education, communications, and program coordination, making her a valuable asset to our initiatives. Her deep commitment to rural communities and passion for hands-on, creative work align seamlessly with EdVenture’s mission to serve through innovation and connection.
Kylee and Peyton share a deep belief in building belonging, supporting learners, and creating lasting change through education. We’re thrilled to have them on board and look forward to the incredible impact they’ll make. Please join us in welcoming Kylee and Peyton as they begin their journey with The EdVenture Group!
Let's get to know our newest Program Coordinators:
What are you most excited about in your new role at The EdVenture Group?
K: I’ve worked in the nonprofit field since I was 18, supporting youth and families through programming, advocacy, and community outreach. What excites me most about joining The EdVenture Group is the opportunity to bring that experience into the education space and help students feel supported, connected, and seen. I am passionate about building belonging, and I value that EdV focuses on innovation and relationships to create lasting change.
P: I’m most excited to support students, families, and educators across West Virginia in meaningful ways. Coming from a small town myself, I know how important it is to invest in rural communities, and EdVenture’s mission really speaks to me. I love that this role allows me to work on creative, hands-on projects that make a real difference—while also getting to connect with people and communities and tell the stories behind the work.
How will your prior experience contribute to your new role at EdV?
K: I’ve spent my career building programs and partnerships that support children and teens, especially those impacted by foster, kinship, and adoptive care. I’ve led outreach efforts, organized large-scale community events, and worked closely with educators and youth-serving professionals across West Virginia. I bring practical experience in navigating systems, solving problems creatively, and communicating with empathy.
P: My background in education, communications, and program coordination has given me a solid foundation to support statewide initiatives. I’ve worked as an educator and a program coordinator, so I understand both the classroom and the behind-the-scenes operations that help schools run smoothly. I’ve planned conferences, created outreach materials, and helped connect families to resources, which I believe will all contribute to EdV’s mission of serving communities through innovative education.
K: “When students feel seen, they can succeed.”
It is simple, but it says everything. Whether in a classroom, at home, or in a program, kids need to know that someone truly sees them. When they feel safe, supported, and valued, they can grow into who they are meant to be. That belief has guided me in every role I have held.
P: “Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists they become the best they can possibly be.” – Rita Pierson
This quote reminds me why I do this work. No matter where a student lives or what challenges they face, they deserve someone who sees their potential and believes in them. That’s always been my motivation in every role I’ve had.
What is a fun fact about you?
K: I’ve visited 19 countries outside of the United States. I love learning about new places, meeting people, and seeing the world from a different perspective. One of my favorite parts of traveling is telling people I am from West Virginia because no matter where I am, someone always starts singing “Country Roads, Take Me Home.”
P: I run a small business where I make custom t-shirts and gifts for people in many states, along with various sports teams and events! I love being creative and using design as another way to connect with the community.
What can somebody find you doing outside of work hours for fun?
K: I love spending time outdoors with my husband and our two-year-old. We enjoy hiking, camping, visiting parks, and riding electric scooters. Unplugging and being outside together is one of our favorite ways to spend time.
P: Outside of work, you can usually find me spending time outdoors with my family and my dog, Dottie. I also enjoy golfing, any sporting events, vacationing, and baking.
