In October 2022, ARC hosted our annual conference, One Appalachia: Connection & Collaboration, alongside 2022 States’ Co-Chair Governor Larry Hogan and the state of Maryland at the Rocky Gap Resort in Flintstone, Maryland.
The event brought together 300 Appalachians and highlighted how our 13 states and 423 counties are collaborating to bring each of ARC’s strategic investments to life. Programming featured ARC partners who work daily to strengthen Appalachia by creating and expanding workforce development, growing sectors like outdoor recreation, developing entrepreneurs, and building leadership and community capacity.
Welcome and Opening Remarks
ARC’s Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin, 2022 States’ Co-Chair Governor Larry Hogan, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, and ARC Executive Director Brandon McBride welcome guests to the conference.
Fireside Chat
ARC States’ Co-Chair Governor Larry Hogan and MLB Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. discuss lessons about business and leadership, and Ripken’s memories of learning about baseball in Appalachian North Carolina.
Advancing Appalachia Through Collaboration
Central Appalachian Network shares how democratizing decision making, working toward equity, and collaborating across state lines strengthens their impact in Appalachia.
Agenda and Program
After the opening plenary, attendees connected with ARC staff at office hours, exchanged ideas during six breakout sessions, participated into three deep-dive discussions, and saw ARC investments in action at two mobile workshops.
Topics covered include entrepreneurship, broadband, recovery-to-work, tourism and downtown development, and more.
