Cole and Grooms Chosen to Represent Our Region

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) named two emerging leaders from the OVRDC region to participate in this year’s Appalachian Leadership Institute.

Scioto county native Eli Cole, OVRDC Development Specialist, and Pike County Tourism Development Director Chandler Grooms, will participate in the 2024-2025 leadership class, meeting others from across Appalachia to strategize and learn about emerging trends and economic development opportunities.

Over the next nine months, Cole and Grooms will participate in sessions focused on skill-building with regional experts, peer-to-peer learning, site visits and case study analysis. Upon graduation they will then join a robust alumni network, allowing them to continue connecting with, and learning from, other leaders across Appalachia.

“I’m looking forward to connecting with the 39 other fellows to discuss ideas surrounding positive change and growth throughout the region. I hope that by the end of this 9-month program, I will learn skills, bring new ideas, and assist in the development of other leaders who will keep advancing our region. No matter which states or political subdivisions we come from, we are all Appalachian working together for the betterment of our communities,” said Eli Cole.

“I am honored to be selected for the Appalachian Leadership Institute. This is a tremendous opportunity to learn from experts and collaborate with other leaders across the region. I’m excited to bring new ideas and strategies back to Pike County, to help strengthen our tourism efforts and drive sustainable growth in Appalachian Ohio,” said Chandler Grooms.

The new fellow class kicks off the ARC Leadership Institute this week in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Learn more about the leadership program and apply at https://www.arc.gov/academies-and-institutes/leadership/.