The CSPDC previously announced in October 2023 that The Advancement Foundation (TAF) President Annette Patterson was selected as 1 of 40 Fellows for the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Appalachian Leadership Institute (ALI), their fifth annual class. Last month, Ms. Patterson graduated from the ALI after completing the 10-month program that included six skill-building seminars, conducting field visits across Appalachia, and a capstone event in Washington, D.C. The Class of 2023-24 meets again in September for an opportunity to work together at an ALI alumni network session in North Carolina.
The ALI is a leadership training opportunity that trains Appalachian community leaders to use economic development as a tool to propel positive change. As a result of the program, ALI graduates are better equipped to drive collaborative solutions to the biggest challenges faced in the Appalachian region. The CSPDC congratulates Ms. Patterson and her classmates on a job well done! We look forward to our continued collaboration with Ms. Patterson and TAF staff on the next phase of the Virginia Innovation Accelerator project. Approved plans include converting the former 38,000 square-foot Mundet building in Buena Vista into a space for small-scale manufacturing, commercial kitchen use, business acceleration, and product development. The space also will promote training, outdoor recreation, tourism, and community events.
For more information on the ARC ALI, please contact them directly at leadership@arc.gov, (202) 884-7700, or visit https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/leadership/.