Mary Baldwin University hosted two events in May that drew high-ranking statewide officials and addressed important issues in economic development and higher education.
On May 20–21, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) held its regularly scheduled meeting at MBU, including a joint meeting of Virginia’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities and remarks from Gov. Ralph S. Northam.
Northam’s remarks came during the Private College Advisory Board Meeting in Lyda B. Hunt Dining Hall. The governor focused on his priorities for higher education, including workforce training; STEAM education (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics); and federal funding, such as PELL grants, that support first-generation college students.
Stephen Moret, president and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership also addressed the panel, reiterating the value of the liberal arts in economic development. Moret, who was a key player in attracting Amazon’s new corporate headquarters in Virginia, also addressed the importance and growth of the tech sector and the role that colleges and universities can play in that vast expansion of learning.
MBU officials led approximately 40 guests, including numerous private college presidents and members of SCHEV, on a tour of the historic campus.
And on May 8, MBU hosted a town hall organized by Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball to discuss expanding economic opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. The discussion focused on ways to leverage and grow small, women, and minority-owned businesses; Virginia’s opportunity zones; and Virginia’s role in high-growth (tech-centric) and research-driven economic development. That event was held at MBU’s newest space downtown, MBU@theWharf, located at 19 W. Johnston St.
Vice President of Integrated Communications and Chief Strategy Officer Aimee Rose, President Pamela Fox, and Gov. Ralph S. Northam talk before Northam addresses the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, at their annual meeting hosted on May 20 at MBU.