Innovation and Impact with Allyssa Covert and Travis Kahle

I visit the University of Charleston for the i3 Innovation Showcase and speak with Travis Kahle and Allyssa Covert about how the event brings together students and faculty from every program to present their ideas, from new businesses and research to community projects and artistic expressions.

Travis explains the showcase started as a research day, then evolved after the Innovation Center was built. It now includes a wider range of innovation, allowing participants to test real ideas that could become businesses. Some already have. Allyssa walks me through the planning, including prep events and judging logistics.

As a judge myself, I got a firsthand look at how each entry is evaluated. Presenters are responsible for clearly explaining their work, whether it’s a chemical compound or a creative display. Travis says this is intentional—it mirrors real-world situations where an idea must be communicated clearly to potential supporters.

Allyssa gives me a tour of the Innovation Center, which opened in 2017 and includes a maker lab, stop-motion studio, and a LEGO lab. It offers tools for hands-on learning and development.

Travis tells me the best way for the public to get involved is to email innovation@ucwv.edu. He also highlights the Downtown Innovation Hub on Capitol Street, which connects the university’s resources with businesses and entrepreneurs in the community.

This event, and this place, opens doors for turning ideas into action.