Marshall University officials and U.S. Rep. Carol Miller’s in-state team met Thursday on Marshall’s Huntington campus to discuss innovative strategies aimed at advancing the Mountain State through education and economic development. The collaborative meeting underscores a shared commitment to fostering growth and opportunity in West Virginia.
As part of the day’s activities, the group attended a graduation ceremony at the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC), celebrating the achievements of 16 individuals earning associates degrees and academic certificates, plus the completion of nearly 160 industry credentials. The center continues to play a vital role in equipping students with the skills needed to excel in the manufacturing sector and contribute to the state’s economic vitality.
The congressional team also received an update on the Marshall Innovation District from director of entrepreneurship Tricia Ball. The mixed use, $250+ million district will be anchored by the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation and will include the Institute of Cyber Security, a new state headquarters for MAMC, innovation support for entrepreneurship, commercial office space and retail. In addition, the team also received an overview of the WV Grant Resource Centers (Centers), an initiative to help communities and eligible applicants write competitive grants. The Centers just wrapped up the second year of operations, helping to secure more than $41 Million in federal, state, and private funds for economic development projects across West Virginia’s 55 counties.