EO hosts 2024 Rural Summit, driving progress for rural Virginia
October 24, 2024
The 2024 Rural Summit brought together over 300 educators, healthcare professionals, elected officials, and community leaders for a meaningful discussion to advance rural communities. Attendees gathered to hear an address from Virginia First Lady Suzanne Youngkin, along with two keynote speeches, panel discussions, and over 20 workshop sessions led by education, business, government, and healthcare experts.
“This Summit is all about the power of collaboration and partnership within our region,” said Travis Staton, President and CEO of EO. “Each year, it evolves to address new challenges, and when we come together with a shared vision, we make significant strides in moving our region forward.”
The day kicked off with an address by First Lady Youngkin, followed by a panel discussion highlighting current challenges and progress in education across the state.
The Rural Summit featured two keynote speakers Jim “The Rookie” Morris and Dr. El Brown. Morris, the real-life inspiration for the Disney film The Rookie, delivered a motivational keynote on pursuing dreams and creating a plan for success, drawing from his journey as a 35-year-old teacher-turned-major league pitcher.
Dr. Brown, a renowned author, professor, and thought leader, has impacted families across 11 countries through her global initiative, KinderJam. Her dedication has earned her accolades, including invitations to the White House, appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show and the Dr. Oz Show, and the title of 2012 Army Spouse of the Year.
“The success of the 2024 Rural Summit is a testament to the power of collaboration in our region,” said Kristy Worley, Vice President of Programs at EO. “This Summit has shown what’s possible when we unite around a shared vision for the future – one that uplifts every corner of our rural communities and ensures lasting impact for generations to come.”
Sponsors of the 2024 Rural Summit include the Virginia State Office of Rural Health, Ballad Health, Wize Solutions, Thompson & Litton, Anthem Health Keepers Plus, Visit Smyth County, Advantage Capital, Hitachi, The Leader’s Perspective, Pulaski County, Delta Dental, Innovate Fund, GrantFlow, and Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM), IncareK12, and Keller-Ferguson and Associates.