Guest speakers expected to share state leadership perspectives on fundamental questions key to Appalachian Ohio.
David Pepper, Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor, and State Representative Brian Stewart, speaking on behalf of Rob McColley, Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, will speak at the Center for Appalachian Innovation Summit -- The Start of it All, to be held on the Marietta College campus Thursday, September 24.
“We are thrilled to welcome David Pepper and Rep. Brian Stewart to our campus to participate in the discussions facilitated by The Center for Appalachian Innovation. These conversations are an opportunity to hear perspectives on fundamental questions key to the thriving of Southeast Ohio,” Dr. Kathleen Poorman Dougherty said.
Pepper is a resident of Cincinnati and has served on the Cincinnati City Council and the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners. He is a former chair of the Ohio Democratic Party and also the author of several books examining the role of state government in addressing community challenges.
Stewart is a state representative from Ashville, Ohio, chair of the Ohio House Finance Committee, former Pickaway County commissioner and an Army veteran. He authored Ohio’s residential broadband expansion program, which has expanded high-speed internet access in rural communities across the state. Stewart is representing Senate President and Republican nominee for Lieutenant Governor Rob McColley.
“The work of the Center reflects Marietta College’s longstanding commitment to leadership, civic engagement, and regional progress,” Dougherty said. “For nearly two centuries, the College has served as a place where complex issues can be discussed openly and respectfully, bringing together diverse perspectives in pursuit of practical solutions. These conversations are an extension of that mission and an opportunity to focus on the future of Appalachian Ohio.”
The summit will also feature remarks from featured speakers Dr. Brandon Dennison, vice president of Workforce and Economic Development at Marshall University and founder and CEO of Coalfield Development, and Jason Duff, founder and CEO of Small Nation. A panel discussion with local experts will focus on workforce and retention, along with community success stories.
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required by Tuesday, September 22. A registration link is at marietta.edu/center-appalachian-innovation.
Media Advisory: Media outlets wishing to cover the event should register in advance by contacting Linda Lockhart at LLL004@marietta.edu and check in on arrival to receive media credentials. The program is designed as a moderated discussion. To ensure consistency and fairness for all participants, there will be no media availability, press conferences, or opportunities for audience questions with the speakers. No recordings will be permitted.