Kelly Collins, CEO of the State Fair of West Virginia in Lewisburg, has been recognized with the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) Rising Star Award during the IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Denver.
Sponsored by Wade Shows, Inc., the Rising Star Award honors young professionals demonstrating exceptional leadership within the IAFE. “Our industry thrives because of dedicated young professionals who step up, lead, and innovate,” said IAFE President and CEO David Grindle. “Kelly Collins represents the energy and leadership shaping the bright future of our fairs.”
Collins has been with the State Fair of West Virginia for years, starting as agricultural competitions manager, moving to operations manager, and becoming CEO in March 2015. A lifelong participant in livestock shows, Collins described leading the fair as the fulfillment of a childhood dream.
Her leadership has earned numerous accolades, including the 2025 Greater Greenbrier Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year, 2024 West Virginia Wonder Woman, and a spot on the 2024 WV State Journal 40 Under 40 list. At the IAFE, she has served as Zone 2 director and program chair for the 2023 convention.
Under Collins’ leadership, the State Fair of West Virginia has expanded programs, strengthened community partnerships, and built a team focused on agriculture, youth, and family entertainment.