Dear Friend,
Everywhere we turn we are reminded of the importance of networks and the power of partnership.
This is especially true of rural America and Appalachia, where economies are responding to the effects of globalization by reverting to their most basic form—the relationship—to fuel local growth and development.
That’s why we’ve chosen The Relationship Economy as the theme for the 2017 Brushy Fork Annual Institute, to be held September 19-21 at Berea College. Emily Breedlove, a leader in developing innovative local economies in Western North Carolina, will provide our keynote address exploring how trust, sharing, and inclusion create foundations for a stronger and more durable regional economy.
We are proud of how the Annual Institute continues to evolve in response to your feedback. This year’s event features more than 20 interactive sessions led by presenters from across Appalachia. Our leadership team includes representation from Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Throughout the Institute, we’ll eat well, including outdoor community picnics on the Berea College President’s Lawn and dining at the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant, which features traditional dishes such as spoonbread and homemade desserts. All meals are included in the cost of registration.
After three full days of music, food, fellowship, sharing and learning, you will return home brimming with new ideas, new skills, and renewed inspiration. You will also be better connected and better equipped to tackle community challenges.
I hope you’ve already made plans to join us. With our community’s help, we’ve planned an awesome event you don’t want to miss!
Head on over to
www.berea.edu/brushy-fork-annual-institute/ for full event details.
We look forward to welcoming you to Berea!
