2025 Featured Speakers & Program Support
We are proud to feature an incredible lineup of speakers, facilitators, and program partners who made our 2025 event, workshops, and initiatives possible. Their expertise, passion, and commitment to creating meaningful experiences are the foundation of our success.
Below, you’ll find information about the distinguished individuals and organizations supporting this year’s program.

Penny Horton
Adm. Assistant, Scott County. EDA; Executive Secretary, Scott Co. Chamber of Commerce

Deborah Clarkston, MSN, RN
Nursing Program Coordinator, MECC

John Kilgore
Director, Scott County Economic Development Authority

Robert Chapman
Park Manager, Natural Tunnel State Park

Courtney Stidham
Intake Coordinator, Mountain Region

Danny Dixon
Mayor, Nickelsville

Kim Dorton
Professor Emeritus, Mountain Empire Community College

Karen Davidson
Appalachian Community Action Agency

Chris Maness
Chair, Scott County Board of Supervisors

Cody Mumpower
Deputy District Director, Office of Congressman Morgan Griffith

Dr. Amy Greear
Vice President of Institutional Advancement. Mountain Empire Community College

Craig Seaver
Retired Director, Virginia State Parks

Kaden Kilgore
Scott County Career and Technical Center

Jennifer Meade
2024-2025 President, Virginia Cattlemen’s Association

Ethan Howes
Chief Ranger, Virginia State Parks

Brittany Robertson
Scott County Tourism Director

Amy Hass
Join Our Local Leadership Initiative
Become an integral part of Scott County’s growth by participating in our Leadership Program. Your involvement can spark change and foster development in our vibrant community. Together, we can build a brighter future for Scott County.