About this Workshop

Regional Innovation Panel: Building the Future: Where Southern Virginia’s Economy is Growing – and Where Entrepreneurs Fit In

PANEL DISCUSSION

Description:
As Southern Virginia’s economy evolves, where are the biggest opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses? Regional leaders will discuss emerging industries, workforce trends, major investments, and how founders (entrepreneurs) can position themselves to grow alongside the region’s economy.

Panelists: Gretchen Clark, Hurt & Proffitt; Dr. Scott Lowman, Institute for Advanced Learning & Research; and Angela Yancey; Hitachi Energy South Boston; Moderator: Kiana Dilliard, West Piedmont Planning District Commission

Prerequisites: None

PANELISTS

About the Speakers

Kiana Dillard

West Piedmont Planning District Commission, Economic Development Specialist

Kiana Dillard is a connector and builder of opportunity with a heart for people and a sharp eye for what helps communities move forward. Her work in youth, workforce, and now economic development focuses on turning ideas into action, strengthening partnerships, and creating space for communities, businesses, and local voices to be seen, heard, and supported. In her role with the West Piedmont Planning District Commission, Kiana supports regional efforts related to entrepreneurship, planning, grant development, and community engagement. She brings business insight, marketing experience, data-informed thinking, and genuine community connection into every effort she’s a part of.

Gretchen Clark

Hurt & Proffitt, VP & Chief Operating Officer

Gretchen Clark serves as Chief Operating Officer of Hurt & Profitt, bringing her extensive background to oversee H&P’s services and wide range of infrastructure and development initiatives. She has provided strategic oversight for projects spanning from site development plans to complex water and sewer systems. With a strong technical foundation, Gretchen has successfully designed and managed diverse projects, including master plans, preliminary engineering studies, and detailed designs for water distribution, sanitary and storm sewer systems, stormwater management, and roadway improvements. Her leadership ensures both the operational efficiency and engineering services integrity.

Dr. Scott Lowman

Institute for Advanced Learning & Research, VP of Applied Research

Dr. Scott Lowman joined the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) in 2014 and was named Vice President of Applied Research in 2022. Prior to joining IALR, Lowman worked in the pharmaceutical industry and, in 2003, co-founded Lynchburg Grows, a non-profit urban farm and job training center in Lynchburg, Va. As a trained molecular biologist, Lowman has championed work in biotechnology and robotic imaging to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. In 2020, Lowman teamed with Virginia Tech to launch the Controlled Environment Agriculture Innovation Center on IALR’s campus. The center, along with the Applied Research division at IALR, focuses on supporting industry, governmental and academic partners to help drive economic transformation in the Southern Virginia region.

Lowman supports this mission in his civic life as well, serving on the Town Council of Altavista, as President of Altavista on Track, and as a member of Altavista’s Economic Development Authority. In recognition of his work, Lowman was named a 2017 Outstanding Recent Graduate Alumnus at Virginia Tech and was presented the Commonwealth Environmental Leadership Award from the Waldorf Foundation. Lowman earned his bachelor’s degree in biology with Honors from Virginia Tech, his master’s in biology from the College of William and Mary, and his Ph.D. from Virginia Tech.

Angela Yancey

Hitachi Energy South Boston, Community Relations Manager

Angela Yancey serves as Community Relations Manager for Hitachi Energy in South Boston, where she leads community engagement initiatives and fosters partnerships that support the company’s mission and values. Angela brings more than 15 years of experience in community development, nonprofit leadership, workforce engagement, and business development. Throughout her career, she has held leadership roles with the Southern Virginia Higher Education Foundation, the Prizery Community Arts Center Foundation, Mentor-Role Model Program, and Halifax United Way. In addition to her professional work at Hitachi, Angela is the owner of Turn ‘N’ Headz Beauty Salon, reflecting her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to serving her community.