Center for Economic and Community Development in Black Appalachia and Isolated Communities
The Center for Economic and Community Development in Black Appalachia and Isolated Communities at Marshall University is a dedicated hub for fostering inclusive growth, innovation, and resilience. Our mission is to address the unique economic and social challenges faced by Black Appalachians and other isolated communities through collaborative initiatives, education, and strategic partnerships.
Economic Research and Advocacy Our team conducts in-depth research to understand the economic landscape of Black Appalachia and other isolated regions. By identifying barriers to progress and opportunities for growth, we provide actionable insights and advocate for policy changes that promote equitable development.
Community Engagement and Capacity Building We work hand-in-hand with community leaders, organizations, and residents to design and implement programs that enhance local capacity. Initiatives like the “Seeds for Growth” Business Development Conference and the Great Voices series have brought critical conversations and resources to the forefront.
Workforce Development and Entrepreneurship Recognizing the need for sustainable economic opportunities, we offer workforce training programs tailored to local industries and promote entrepreneurship through mentorship, access to capital, and business development resources.
Project Management Courses As part of our commitment to building local capacity, we will soon offer comprehensive project management courses in partnership with Marshall Online. The courses are designed to equip participants with the skills needed to successfully lead and execute community initiatives. Participants will gain practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to real-world projects, helping drive community and economic development efforts forward.
Black Appalachia and other isolated communities face systemic challenges that hinder economic mobility, including limited access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure. By addressing these disparities, the Center aims to create pathways for prosperity and build a foundation for lasting change.
Collaborating with local governments, nonprofits, and businesses to deliver impactful programs.
Engaging hundreds of community members through workshops and forums.
Helping small businesses thrive, increasing workforce readiness, and fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
Dr. Alan Letton serves as the Director for the Center for Economic & Community Development in Black Appalachia and Isolated Communities at Marshall University, where he also serves as a Visiting Scholar, teaching in the College of Business graduate programs.
Previously Dr. Letton served as the CEO and Chief Science Officer for MET, the company that developed the recovery technology utilized by Under Armor. He has served as the President and Chief Technical Officer and a member of the Board for Rubberlite Inc, a West Virginia-based company. Additionally, Dr. Letton served as the Interim Vice Chancellor for Research and Dean of Graduate Studies at North Carolina A&T and as the Chief Science Officer and Senior Vice President of Research and Engineering for Sealy, Inc. In this role Dr. Letton was responsible for research, engineering, safety, quality, latex technologies, intellectual property, innovation and new technologies. Prior to joining Sealy, Alan was Executive Vice President for Polymerix Corporation, a biotech company that specialized in developing drug delivery systems and other combination devices. Dr. Letton has held several positions in the academic and industrial communities; Sandia National Laboratories, Dow Chemical (Research Leader), Texas A & M University (Professor of Mechanical Engineering & Chemistry), Tuskegee University (Dean for the College of Engineering & Architecture), Allied Signal (Director of the Polymer Skills Center) and Avon Products (Director of Physical Sciences).
Dr. Letton has served on several boards, has founded several not-for-profit organizations serving as their executive officer, and has over 100 articles, patents and book contributions. Dr. Letton currently serves as a consultant in areas of patent litigation, technology management, executive leadership, DEi and strategic planning.
Community Engagement Board
To ensure our initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve, we have established a Community Engagement Board. This board comprises local leaders, residents, and stakeholders who provide guidance, feedback, and direction for the Center’s programs and projects. By fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration, the board helps ensure our efforts remain community-driven and impactful.
Get Involved
Whether you’re a student, researcher, community member, or partner organization, there are many ways to join us in making a difference:
- Participate in Programs: Attend our workshops, training sessions, and community events.
- Collaborate with Us: Partner on projects, share resources, or volunteer your expertise.
- Support Our Mission: Make a donation to help sustain our initiatives and expand our reach.
