SWVA Economic Forum
Every year, the Forum engages participants through a shared vision of regional collaboration, growth and innovation for all of Southwest Virginia. It has become a central gathering place for the region to discuss new ideas and synergies to build Southwest Virginia’s future. And you can be a part of that momentum.
Event Agenda
8:00 a.m.
Event Check-In
Grab your name badge, visit our sponsors, enjoy breakfast, and make your way to the main floor to grab a seat.
9:00 a.m.
Opening Welcome
Join us as we introduce the vision for the Ninth Annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum.
Donna P. Henry, Ph.D., Chancellor of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
9:10 a.m.
Meet the Event Emcee
Get to know our event emcee and learn how you can be an active participant in this year’s Forum.
Julie Newman, General Manager, PBS Appalachia
9:15 a.m.
State of The Region
Using data and economic insights, Chris Chmura will address the region’s progress and highlight what opportunities lie ahead for the communities of Southwest Virginia.
Chris Chmura, Ph.D., Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chmura Analytics
10:00 a.m.
Networking Break
10:15 a.m.
Full Speed Ahead: Overcoming Barriers to Systemic Change
John Wilson, Market President, Appalachian Recovery Care
Dana Cronkhite, Economic Development Director, Dickenson County, VA
10:45 a.m.
SWVA Legislative Delegation Panel
Moderator: Donna P. Henry, Ph.D., Chancellor of The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
11:15 a.m.
Morning Keynote
Governor Youngkin will discuss the impactful work happening in Southwest Virginia and the region’s role within the state.
The Honorable Glenn Youngkin, Governor of Virginia
12:00 p.m.
Lunch & Networking
12:45 p.m.
Afternoon Keynote
Dan Schawbel, New York Times Bestselling Author & Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence
1:45 p.m.
Mapping the Route to Your Destination: Community-Based Funding Solutions
Moderator: Cindy Green, Relationship Manager, Locus
Panelists:
- Sydney England, Locus
- Holly Hatcher, Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation
- Sean McMurray, Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia
- Mark Vanover, RAPHA Foundation
2:45 p.m.
Giveaways (must be present to win)
2:50 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Dwayne Yancey, Editor, Cardinal News
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Learn about sponsorship opportunities. If you or your organization is interested in becoming an event sponsor, please contact Kelly Moody (kmoody@uvawise.edu) for additional details.
Additional Event Details
Needing directions to the event venue?
The Southwest Virginia Economic Forum will be held at UVA Wise’s David J. Prior Convocation Center. The address is 437 Stadium Drive, Wise, VA 24293. See the campus map for venue location and event parking (circled in yellow).
Looking for event lodging?
The Inn at Wise
100 E Main Street, Wise, VA 24293
276-321-7600
Block Expiration: April 23, 2024
Best Western
124 Woodland Drive SW, Wise, VA 24293
276-328-3500
Block Expiration: April 22, 2024
Western Front
3025 4th Avenue, St. Paul, VA 24283
276-738-3040
Block Expiration: April 23, 2024
Nottingham Place
208 Nottingham Ave SE, Wise, VA 24293
276-870-2345
Block expiration: May 1, 2024
Mention the 2024 Forum at booking to receive the promotional rate.