The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce hosted a luncheon Thursday, Jan. 8, at the New College Institute featuring Tom Barkin, president and chief executive officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.
Barkin represents the Fifth Federal Reserve District, which includes Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia and Washington, D.C.
An estimated 40 local business and community leaders attended the luncheon, which focused on the economic strengths, challenges and growth opportunities facing Martinsville and Henry County. Participants shared firsthand insights with Federal Reserve leadership to help provide a broader understanding of the region’s economic conditions and future potential.
Barkin regularly travels throughout the Fifth District to meet with business owners, workforce leaders, educators and elected officials to gain insight into real-world issues and opportunities impacting communities of all sizes.
“This event provided an invaluable opportunity for our local business and community leaders to engage in direct, meaningful dialogue with Federal Reserve leadership,” said Brenell Thomas, president of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce. “Sharing insights about Martinsville and Henry County gives our community a voice, ensuring the economic realities and growth potential of rural areas like ours are reflected in Federal Reserve decision-making at the highest levels.”
Following his remarks on national and regional economic trends, Barkin participated in an interactive question-and-answer session addressing topics such as health care, education, technology and interest rates.
Attendees also sought his perspective on small business strategies, how Martinsville-Henry County compares to similarly sized rural communities he has visited, and ways to build on the momentum created by the visit.
The luncheon fostered discussion and collaboration among business, civic and economic development leaders. The Chamber of Commerce and the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond thanked attendees for their participation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in supporting long-term economic vitality in Martinsville and Henry County.
