2024 SWVHEC Annual Report

Governor Youngkin Visits SWVHEC

In March 2024, Governor Glenn Youngkin participated in several “listening” sessions across the Southwest Virginia region, with one stop being at the Center. He called for a “back to basics” approach to economic development for the region. Youngkin encouraged local leaders to take the initiative in capturing manufacturing opportunities as companies move back to the United States.

He also continued to support an “all of the above” approach to energy for Virginia, based on research in the growing nuclear industry and the region’s potential for energy production. He was joined by members of the Southwest Virginia legislative delegation including Senator Todd Pillion, Senator Travis Hackworth, Delegate Jed Arnold and Delegate Israel O’Quinn.

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center welcomed the Appalachian Regional Commission’s Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin in June 2024. Co-Chair Manchin came to Southwest Virginia to tour several local projects ARC has funded in the region. The Regional Simulation Lab received $300,000 in ARC funding. Federal Co-Chair Manchin Visits SWVHEC

Manchin, her team, staff from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and staff from Congressman Griffith’s office all commented on the beautiful, immaculate appearance of the Center, and were pleasantly surprised by all of the activity and offerings at the facility. Not only did she and her team get to see the lab under construction, but they also got a grand tour of the entire facility.

2023-24 Annual Report

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