DowntownHuntington.net is launching a new series called “People of Huntington” where we intend to profile as many residents of the Jewel City, from as many different walks of life, as we can. In our newest installment, we talk to Ms. Meghan Mayo, who is 38 years old.

Preferred title: (Dr./Mr./Mrs./Ms./Mx.) 

Ms., but I will soon be Dr.

Any siblings?

Yes, I have an older half-sister who lives in Louisville now. I also had an older brother, Brad. He died a few years ago from the opioid epidemic which motivates my research as a PhD and my work here in Huntington.

Morning or evening person? 

Midday — I am most productive from 11am-2pm.

What are you most known for, especially among your friends? 

Being the “mom” of the group. I always have snacks, band-aids, anything you need. I always check on people and make sure they’re doing ok and take care of their needs.

What do you do in your free time? 

I’m learning to garden this year. I have never had a green thumb, so it’s been fun to step outside of my comfort zone.

What hobby would you get into if you had the time and money?

I would chase the Deck of 52 in Japan.

If there were an Olympics for everyday activities, what would you have a good chance of winning a medal in?

Organizing — everything has a place and space!

If you had enough money to not need one, what would be your “job”?

Philanthropy — I am a true advocate at heart, and I would love to be able to devote 100% of my time to helping others and communities.

What are some accomplishments you’re really proud of?

I went back to school as a 32 year old mom of four to earn my BA in History from Marshall. I was so scared, but in 2016 I did not even have my four-year degree and today I am a doctoral candidate in American and Appalachian History.

Are you from Huntington? If not, what brings you to Huntington? 

I grew up in the area and loved where I was from. I have spent the last three years in Morgantown, studying. I thought I wanted to move away from the state once I was complete, but I was drawn to come home and work on issues related to the opioid epidemic which is why I started developing Mountain Media Productions and my forthcoming podcast.

What are three things you like best about Huntington? 

1. I love the small town feel with the bigger city amenities.
2. I love all the green spaces.
3. I love the people and the sense of community.

What are three things you’d like to change?

1. I would like to see more resources for families of those affected by the opioid epidemic. That is such important work and something I am focusing on in my work.
2. I would love to see more people get involved with community works.
3. Less potholes.

What is/are your favorite restaurant(s) in the Huntington metro? Why?

Ooohhh! There are so many. Christopher’s Eats has the best brunch. Le Bistro is always a wonderful dinner option. Sip has the best ambiance and staff. Backyard is such great seafood in a landlocked state. The Peddler is where my partner and I had our first date. And of course, the 21 Club because Izzy and Mark are the best.

Favorite shop(s)? Why?

I love shopping at the Red Caboose for interesting Christmas gifts. Any of the shops in Central City — I could get lost down there for hours.

Any local and/or small businesses you’d like to acknowledge?

There are a ton of small local business that sell online through IG or Etsy. I just ordered tea from Moon Hollow Tea Co on Etsy and I am so excited to try out some homegrown goods from right here in the area.

What is a food you’ve had that you enjoy that you can’t find in Huntington?

True Spanish Tapas or Peruvian Chinese fusion.

What are some things everybody should try at least once?

Traveling to a place where you don’t speak the language or know anyone. It takes you out of your comfort zone and shows you how vast this world truly is.

Where is the strangest place you’ve ever been?

I used to be part of a paranormal investigation group; we always ended up in strange places.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received? 

“Always dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” — the wonderful Mrs. Lisa Williams

Pretend this is the yearbook, what is your senior quote?

“You don’t need to watch the forecast to know to take your umbrella.”

If you would like to be profiled, send an email to DowntownHuntington@gmail.com.