2024 SWVHEC Annual Report

ADAM TOLBERT, PH.D. SENIOR DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION

Adam Tolbert, Ph.D. oversees key administrative functions at the Center, including human resources, legislative affairs, strategic initiatives, security, the testing center, and special projects. Adam started at the Center in 2013 in the IT Department before he transitioned into his current managerial role in 2018. Previously, he worked for UVA Wise in the IT department from 2006-2013. Adam graduated from UVA Wise with a B.A. in Government and went on to earn his M.S. in Management and Ph.D. in Public Administration from Liberty University. In 2023, Governor Glenn Youngkin appointed Adam to serve as a member of the Virginia Lottery Board. NICKY RAHLEY SENIOR DIRECTOR OF IT, MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS Nicky Rahley has worked at the Center for 15 years, starting as a marketing intern and transitioning to IT. Currently, she oversees operations in IT, maintenance, housekeeping, and all capital projects. Nicky has served as the director of the Regional Lego tournament since 2016. She also serves as a board member of the Appalachian Council of Innovation. She graduated with a B.S. in Information Technology and Masters in Business Administration from King University. She is pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration from Liberty University, set to complete in Spring 2025. Hannah Hietala directs the Center’s Conference Services and Marketing departments. A southwest Virginia native, Hannah first joined the Center in 2011 as an Information Desk Specialist before moving on to work for UVA Wise. After graduating with her master’s in education from Emory & Henry College in 2014, Hannah became the full-time Marketing & Social Media Coordinator for UVA Wise in Abingdon. In 2018, she rejoined the Center as Director of Meetings & Events, a role that has awarded her exciting challenges and opportunities for growth over the last six years. HANNAH HIETALA SENIOR DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & OPERATIONS

2023-24 Annual Report

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