Onward NRV welcomed 122 regional leaders to the 2025 Annual Investor Appreciation and Awards Dinner on September 11, 2025, at the Inn at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.
The evening began with a networking reception, followed by a buffet dinner, awards presentations and a keynote address from David Devan, Senior Vice President of Policy & Strategic Partnerships at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
Board Chair Mark Woolwine opened the program by welcoming investors, sponsors, and board members and thanking the businesses and organizations that support Onward NRV’s mission.
Woolwine then presented service awards to outgoing board members David Bennett, Keith Boyd, Andrew Owens, Wayne Whitlock, and Mindy Boyd, thanking them for their contributions to the NRV’s economic success. Executive Director Katie Boswell followed with the 2025 Regional Impact Awards, recognizing Patton Logistics Group of Pulaski County and Luna Labs of Montgomery County for creating jobs and investment in the region. During her update, Boswell informed investors about Onward’s staffing transition over the summer, introduced the new team, and outlined the key priorities that were maintained throughout the period: ensuring the organization operated smoothly, facilitating the 2025 NRV Experience program, and hiring and training new staff members.
Event sponsor Carrie McConnell, President of Ridge View Bank, addressed attendees before keynote speaker David Devan, Senior Vice President of Policy & Strategic Partnerships at VEDP took the stage. In his keynote, Devan highlighted Virginia’s urgent investment opportunities, while expressing strong optimism about Virginia’s potential. He issued a call to action for collective efforts to drive progress that was motivating and insightful.
Woolwine closed the evening with remarks of appreciation for investors.
Onward NRV would like to say a special thank you to the Annual Investor Appreciation and Awards Dinner event sponsor, Ridge View Bank, and networking reception sponsor, Northpoint Insurance, for their support of the event.
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.