On September 10, 2026, Onward NRV had the privilege of hosting The Honorable Carrie Chenery, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, as keynote speaker for its 2026 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony. The event served as the catalyst for a broader visit across the New River Valley, where Secretary Chenery attended a variety of different events and had the opportunity to see much of what the region has to offer, including businesses, higher education institutions, and quality-of-life assets.
The evening brought together 165 regional leaders and elected officials, including U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith, for a networking reception and buffet dinner.
Board Chair Mark Woolwine opened the program by welcoming the investors, sponsors, board members, and community partners while thanking the businesses and organizations that support Onward NRV’s mission. Following the dinner, Woolwine presented service awards to outgoing board members Adam Keffer, Carie Kingery, Brian Alexander, Sara Eaton-McDaniel, Lauren Dudley, and Randy Wingfield in recognition of their contributions to the region’s economic success.
Executive Director Katie Boswell followed with the presentation of the 2026 Regional Impact Awards, recognizing Interstate Group of Giles County and Aclara of Montgomery County for their significant investments and job creation in the New River Valley. Boswell also provided an update on Onward NRV’s ongoing work to attract and retain talent through initiatives including the NRV Experience, NRV Talent Tours, the Roots in the Valley newsletter, and the NRV Talent Network. She also highlighted progress related to the Virginia’s AM2 Additive Manufacturing & Advanced Materials initiative and the release of the new NRV Livability Guide.
Dinner Event sponsor Kevin Foster, Director of Operations for Evolution HR, addressed attendees before Secretary Chenery took the stage. In her keynote address, Chenery spoke about the importance of regional collaboration, the intersection of economic development and community development, and the talent attraction and retention opportunities that exist across the Commonwealth.
Woolwine closed the evening with remarks of appreciation for investors and partners whose continued support advances Onward NRV’s mission and strengthens the regional economy.
Onward NRV extends a special thank you to event sponsor Evolution HR and networking reception sponsors Camrett Logistics and Northpoint Insurance for their support of the 2026 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony.
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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”
Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world-class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
