is the Executive Director of the Augusta Heritage Center in Elkins, West Virginia, one of the nation’s premier folklife and traditional arts organizations. A 2023 Aspen Ideas Fellow and recipient of the West Virginia Governor’s Arts Award, he is recognized for innovative leadership at the intersection of culture, economic development, and community engagement. Under his direction, Augusta’s Summer Workshops were named “Event of the Year” by the International Bluegrass Music Association, and his team received the Vandalia Award, West Virginia’s highest folklife honor, for their work in traditional music preservation. He is currently leading the redevelopment of a 20,000-square-foot cultural facility in downtown Elkins to serve as a hub for arts, education, and community-building.

A lifelong musician, educator, and arts advocate, Young began his career as a public-school music educator and served as Master Instrumental Music Instructor for the West Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts. From 2009–2016, he directed the music program at the Randolph County Arts Center, creating vibrant after-school opportunities for youth.