MORGANTOWN — When the National League of Cities unveiled its inaugural list of Under 40 Impact Award winners during its Nov. 13 Centennial City Summit in Tampa, Fla., Morgantown Mayor Joe Abu-Ghannam’s name was at the top of the list.
Some say the list was alphabetical.
“But we like to think it’s because of our community and his leadership,” Deputy Mayor Jenny Selin said.
Either way, Abu-Ghannam was selected from a competitive pool of youthful nominees recognized for their contributions to public service, governance and community development.
Nominees had to be elected officials under 40 from NLC member cities, towns and villages.
“These incredible young leaders embody the spirit of innovation and dedication that defines the National League of Cities,” Robert Blaine, director of NLC’s Center for Leadership, Education, Advancement & Development said. “Their work is not only inspiring but also vital to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing our cities today. As NLC enters its second century, it is leaders like these that will guide the next 100 years of growth for both NLC and our country.”
The National League of Cities began at the University of Kansas in 1924, when 10 states came together to form an organization to serve as a clearinghouse for information about municipal government. Today, the organization represents neary 3,000 municipalities and is a top advocate for local governments across the country, according to its website.
Abu-Ghannam was one of 14 mayors selected for the award. There were three deputy mayors and 28 council members on the list. The honorees represent 24 states. Abu-Ghannam is the only elected official from West Virginia.
“This award is a testament to the impactful work being done in Morgantown and reflects the collective efforts of our community to drive positive changes and innovation. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and vitality of our city and to be part of a broader movement shaping the future of local governance,” Abu-Ghannam said.
Abu-Ghannam joined Morgantown City Council in 2021.
He was one of five candidates to interview for the 1st Ward seat left vacant shortly after the April 2021 election. He was appointed by a unanimous vote of council on July 28 and sworn in Aug. 10 of that year.
He was reelected to a four-year term in April 2023 and selected as mayor by a majority of council on July 2, 2024.
Abu-Ghannam called the recognition “an incredible honor.”
“I’m just glad that I have it in writing that I’m under 40,” he laughed.
