University hosts economic development listening sessions with New River Valley stakeholders

The Division of Economic Development and Corporate Education recently held three economic development listening sessions with regional stakeholders.

Hosted at the HUB at Radford for Economic Development, the meetings were designed to spark discussions and illuminate how the university can best determine how its capabilities and assets can support the needs of communities and businesses – first in the New River Valley and, ultimately, beyond. 

Held first on Sept. 27 (for area chambers of commerce and small business support agencies) and then on Oct. 2 (for locality economic development offices and regional organizations), the sessions were hosted by Vice President for Economic Development and Corporate Education Angela Joyner and Director of Economic Development and Community Engagement Charlie Jewell. The division partnered with the Greater Roanoke + NRV Small Business Development Center to help facilitate the conversations.

Representatives from area chambers of commerce and localities attended, as well as such groups as Onward New River Valley, the regional economic development organization and the Community Foundation of the New River Valley.

Radford University President Bret Danilowicz entered office in 2022 as a strong proponent of expanding the school’s partnerships and initiatives.

“We’re pleased that you see potential in how Radford University can support economic development – and the good news is that we can help,” he told the attendees in his remarks at the Sept. 27 meeting. “It’s important for you to know that our vision for the university’s future includes more intentional engagement with local businesses and government agencies,” Danilowicz said.

Danilowicz’s leadership, the university has invested significantly in furthering its commitment to supporting economic development. The Division of Economic Development and Corporate Education was created just over a year ago, and earlier this fall, the university opened the HUB at Radford for Economic Development.

“You can think of our division as the front door of the university; we’re here to help businesses and community partners engage more seamlessly across departments, offices and services,” Jewell explained.

“Building these connections and leveraging the HUB at Radford to bring people together is critical to advancing the university’s economic development impact.”