The Tory Oak Project provided Wilkes Early College High School students with an immersive experience exploring Wilkes County’s career and leisure opportunities. This year, 60 10th-grade students participated, visiting 20+ destinations to learn about the county’s history, heritage, industry, economy, tourism, and recreation. The program also highlighted career and entrepreneurial opportunities available locally.
Throughout the project, students developed Wilkes-based business plans and pitched their ideas to a panel of judges. A total of 16 business concepts were presented, featuring tourism-related attractions, unique lodging options, outdoor recreational activities, social hangout spots, and other ventures aimed at engaging visitors and residents alike.
Wilkes EDC supported the project with a $1,500 sponsorship and engaged with students through mentoring and judging. LeeAnn Nixon and Francisco Martinez of Wilkes EDC joined Mick Zulpo, owner of The Block; Laurie Brintle-Jarvis, director of the Small Business Center at Wilkes Community College; Thomas Salley, director of Wilkes County Tourism; and Kristan Dotson of the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce as judges.
If you or your organization would like to get involved or support next year’s Tory Oak Project, please contact Olivia Walsh.
Wilkes Early College High School | walsho@wilkes.k12.nc.us | (336) 838-6247
