Marietta College’s Center for Appalachian Innovation brought together community leaders, educators, business representatives, policymakers and students on Thursday, Sept. 24, for Rural Development — The Start of It All, a summit focused on strengthening communities across Appalachian Ohio.
The day began with student research presentations and continued with a panel discussion about workforce development, small businesses, housing, infrastructure and the opportunities communities can create by working together. Attendees heard examples of rural communities building on their strengths while addressing challenges that affect residents and employers.
Featured speaker Jason Duff, founder and CEO of Small Nation, shared lessons from his work supporting local businesses and revitalizing downtown Bellefontaine, Ohio. Dr. Brandon Dennison, vice president of Workforce and Economic Development at Marshall University and founder and CEO of Coalfield Development, spoke about Appalachian communities, entrepreneurship and the region’s potential. An afternoon breakout session brought attendees, educators and workforce leaders together to discuss challenges facing rural Appalachia, including how to prepare people for work and create more opportunities close to home.
The summit also included discussions with David Pepper, Ohio’s Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor, and State Rep. Brian Stewart, who participated on behalf of Republican nominee Rob McColley. Marietta College President Kathleen Poorman Dougherty led the conversations, which addressed issues affecting rural Ohio.
Student researchers played an active role throughout the event, presenting their work and contributing questions. Their participation reflected a central part of the Center’s mission: connecting research and education with the needs of Appalachian Ohio’s communities.
“The Start of It All” was an opportunity for people working across different sectors to share what they are seeing in their communities and make connections for the work ahead. The Center for Appalachian Innovation will continue to bring regional partners together through research, convening discussions and support for local communities.
For more information about the Center, visit marietta.edu/center-appalachian-innovation or email Appalachian.Innovation@marietta.edu.