On May 20, Wilkes EDC’s president, LeeAnn Nixon, participated in a panel of economic development leaders at the North Carolina Economic Development Association’s (NCEDA) Triad Regional Networking Luncheon in High Point. The event, held at the Blue Heron Event Venue, brought together nearly 90 attendees for a panel discussion themed “Regionalism and Cross-Border Collaboration: A Win for One is a Win for All.”, with NC Carolina Core being the event sponsor.
The luncheon offered more than just networking opportunities. It served as a platform to emphasize the value of working across county lines to strengthen North Carolina’s economic future. As one of the featured panelists, LeeAnn represented Wilkes County in a conversation moderated by Loren Hill, Regional Economic Development Director for the Piedmont Triad Partnership. She was joined by Kevin Franklin of Randolph County EDC and Brent Christensen of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce.
Together, the panelists shared insights into how regional collaboration supports efforts in workforce development, site readiness, and strategic marketing. LeeAnn spoke to the strengths rural communities like Wilkes bring to the table and how alignment with broader regional initiatives with Northwestern counties, including Surry, Yadkin, and counties along the Carolina Core, creates new opportunities.
The event also featured remarks from High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson and was emceed by Marvin Price of the Greensboro Chamber. NCEDA’s dedicated staff helped coordinate the gathering.
LeeAnn’s role in this discussion reflects not only her leadership in Wilkes County but also her commitment to supporting economic growth across the Triad and the state. As NCEDA continues to foster professional development and collaboration, we’re proud to see Wilkes represented in conversations that help shape North Carolina’s future.