2024 SWVHEC Annual Report

Partner Success Stories

UVA Wise Office of Community and Economic Development

The UVA Wise Office of Community & Economic Development is committed to improving the quality of life and economic vitality of Southwest Virginia. UVA Wise took significant steps to expand its programs and services over the past year, including growing the team based at the Center and serving as the support organization for various regional initiatives. With the support of The Nature Conservancy and the Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation, UVA Wise approved a total of $100,000 to fund eight different community projects that contribute to economic diversification, expanded community capacity, and benefits to nature through the Cumberland Forest Community Fund. The Opportunity Appalachia program approved five community and economic development projects for $277,990.83 in technical assistance funding. Lastly, the GO Virginia Region 1 Council recently approved eight projects. In total, GO Virginia Region 1 has awarded 42 projects for a total of $10,175,036.71. As of Quarter 1 2024, GO Virginia subgrantee projects have reported 372 jobs created, 585 jobs retained, 20 businesses created, 52 businesses expanded, and 271 credentials awarded. In addition to funding opportunities, UVA Wise continues to provide entrepreneurial and business start-up support through Opportunity SWVA and related activities, which include business start-up competitions, assistance, and networking events. UVA Wise also offers ongoing customized professional development training to area employers out of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.

A. Linwood Holton Governors School Senator Tim Kaine and former Virginia Education Secretary Anne Holton visited the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in May 2024 to deliver remarks at a ceremony celebrating former Governor Linwood Holton. The A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School, along with Executive Director Dr. Michael Robinson and staff, unveiled a bronze plaque honoring former Governor Holton which is on display near their office at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Opened in 1998, the school provides virtual, mostly dual-enrollment classes in science, humanities, history, math, and cybersecurity to over 500 high school juniors, seniors, and select sophomores from eighteen county and city school divisions. The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center hosts the Governor’s School at the facility, providing faculty and staff offices as well as instructional and lab space for students.

2023-24 Annual Report

13