Latest news with #Governor'sConferenceonEconomicDevelopment
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
MTSU Monday: State economic head impressed, learning center to host fundraiser
Here's the latest news from the university: Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter recently visited Middle Tennessee State University in one of his ongoing #McWhorterOnTheMove trips across Tennessee. McWhorter explored MTSU's cutting-edge research and workforce development in quantum science and its national leading Concrete Industry Management program during the commissioner's two-hour visit. McWhorter has been crisscrossing the state, visiting universities, high schools, industry and more in the quest to make Tennessee the No. 1 location in the Southeast for high quality jobs. 'Our job in our department is to connect industry with the research and development assets in our state,' McWhorter said in a video on the department's Facebook page. 'We're touring, hearing, listening, learning, and we're getting that out to industry not only in the U.S., but globally.' Regarding quantum science, led by faculty member Hanna Terletska, McWhorter said MTSU's 'doing some fantastic work in quantum. They're putting curriculum together with their researchers and faculty and students. 'They're reaching across the state, working with lots of other partners to further their research (and) further the workforce development capabilities that is really going to be the future. It's not just companies in quantum computing. It's really all industry that is eventually going to be using quantum computing … to better their products and services in their business.' Concrete Industry Management program director Jon Huddleston and College of Basic and Applied Sciences Dean Greg Van Patten led McWhorter on a brief tour of the 90,000-square-foot, $74.8 million School of Concrete and Construction Management Building. Joe Bales, vice president for University Advancement, shared that McWhorter's 'visit was designed to provide the commissioner and ECD (Economic and Community Development) staff with a better understanding of the resources available in our education system to assist the state in economic development.' Part of McWhorter's visit to MTSU was connected to GovCon25 — the Governor's Conference on Economic Development — Nov. 4-5 in Murfreesboro, to be hosted by ECD and the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and to be held at Embassy Suites by Hilton near The Avenue in Murfreesboro. MTSU may be an event sponsor. Middle Tennessee State University's Ann Campbell Early Learning Center will host the 18th annual 'Saddle Up' fundraiser on Saturday, April 19, again inviting the public to come out for this signature family-friendly event in support of the longtime preschool facility that also serves as a training ground for students. The annual event will run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 19 at the MTSU Tennessee Livestock Center, at 1720 Greenland Drive. The funds raised will help the learning center maintain the inclusive outdoor playground, hire additional staff, and enhance classroom learning materials. Tickets are $7 and $30 for groups and can be purchased online or by visiting the center webpage at and clicking the link at bottom. Food and snacks will be available throughout the day. 'This is a true family event that you don't want to miss!' said Charlotte Scott-Moore, the director of the center. Attendees can enjoy a variety of activities like giant Jenga and a mega egg hunt. Horses will appear with handlers from the Rutherford County 4-H horse club. In addition, the Easter bunny will be handing out golden eggs to the kids. There will also be a silent auction with items for the whole family, including new pieces like gift card collages for restaurants all over town. The event will feature children's author and MTSU associate professor of marketing Sherry Roberts to read some of her books. Located on North Baird Lane on the MTSU campus, the Ann Campbell Early Learning Center is an inclusive preschool serving children from 12 months to kindergarten age. The program provides a developmentally appropriate learning environment. It also serves as a training site for more than 200 college students each year, offering hands-on in-classroom training and observation opportunities. Those interested in helping the center continue to provide learning opportunities to children can donate or become sponsors through the learning center's website. The ACE Learning Center is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Human Services. MTSU Mondays content is provided by submissions from MTSU News and Media Relations. This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: State economic head impressed, learning center to host fundraiser
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Midweek Update March 18 with Luke Hagen and District 20 Rep. Jeff Bathke
Mar. 18—MITCHELL — Mitchell was recognized at the Governor's Conference on Economic Development at the end of February. Afterward, District 20 Rep. Jeff Bathke, of Mitchell, a Republican, nominated the city for a commemoration. "It only takes one senator or representative to oppose it, because it's not something you vote on, you just say, 'I oppose it,' and it's gone," Bathke said. Find out why Mitchell didn't receive the commemoration, and hear Bathke talk about the eminent domain bill, the 100th legislative session, property taxes and much more in this week's Midweek Update.
Yahoo
01-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Mitchell named South Dakota's Community of the Year for third time
Feb. 28—MITCHELL — Mitchell's growth has transformed the city, according to locals. Now, that progress has earned it the title of Community of the Year. Earlier this week at the Governor's Conference on Economic Development, it was revealed that Mitchell has been named South Dakota's Community of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates the city's continued commitment to economic growth, housing development, and workforce expansion, highlighting its role as a key leader in the state's future development. The achievement of being named Community of the Year marks Mitchell's third time winning the award. Mitchell was first recognized in 1988, when the award was introduced, and again in 2011. "This is a great achievement for our wonderful community and will further our current momentum we have going in Mitchell," said Mayor Jordan Hanson. Mike Lauritsen, CEO of the Mitchell Area Development Corporation (MADC), explained that the award recognizes the collective efforts, vision and teamwork that have helped Mitchell become a standout community. He highlighted the city's growth through new housing, substantial business investments and major projects like the $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant, positioning Mitchell for continued success and progress. Lauritsen says a key moment in Mitchell's journey to earning this recognition came last fall when Gov. Kristi Noem visited for a series of ribbon-cutting ceremonies. Lauritsen made sure to use the opportunity to show the governor the city's momentum firsthand. "We're seeing construction happening everywhere — housing, businesses, infrastructure," Lauritsen said. "The momentum is real, and I made sure to point that out while she was here." Lauritsen's pitch to Noem included showcasing Mitchell's latest developments, from the creation of 100 new housing lots to the relocation of 52 families through the Chamber's $1,000 "Move to Mitchell" program. He emphasized how these initiatives address the growing housing and workforce needs in the city, making Mitchell a place where families and businesses can thrive. At Noem's request, Lauritsen quickly organized a lunch with families who had relocated to Mitchell through the Chamber's relocation program. Lauritsen noted that Noem was particularly engaged during this meeting, asking questions and showing genuine interest in the experiences of the new residents. "She was very engaged and wanted to hear about how the process was working for them," Lauritsen said. "I think it really resonated with her when she saw how our efforts are paying off in real, tangible ways." The $500 million High Plains Soybean Processing Plant is another development that Lauritsen pointed to as a major game-changer for Mitchell and the surrounding region. The plant, which is expected to create 75 new jobs, is the largest economic development project in state history. Lauritsen highlighted how the project will strengthen the region's agricultural economy, benefiting local farmers and creating a ripple effect in Mitchell's economy. "This soybean processing plant will not only provide high-quality jobs but also support value-added agriculture in the region," Lauritsen said. "When it opens, we'll see more money circulating in the community." Mitchell's commitment to expanding its economy and addressing local needs is not slowing down. Lauritsen pointed to the city's ongoing projects, such as a low-interest loan program in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Transportation to build a transportation loop around the soybean plant. This new infrastructure will reduce transportation costs for area farmers and contribute to the plant's success. "This project will make a significant difference for local farmers," Lauritsen said. "It's all about making it easier for them to get their product to market, and that's a win for the entire community." Laurie Cooper, director of operations for the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce, attributes the city's prime location, right off the interstate, as a key factor in its success. "We are the gateway to the west," Cooper said. "And because of that location, we are always driving the workforce, holding job fairs, and constantly marketing the town to businesses outside of our borders. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, and we are always trying to grow and make Mitchell better." Looking ahead, Lauritsen also revealed that the Mitchell Area Development Corporation has signed a purchase agreement for a 20-acre industrial park aimed at attracting distribution centers. The site, located adjacent to the interstate, will provide another boost to the local economy. The corporation is currently seeking a zero-interest loan through the Rural Electric Economic Development (REED) fund to help with infrastructure development at the new park. "We're very optimistic about what the future holds," Lauritsen said. "These projects are just the beginning. Mitchell has a lot of momentum, and we're going to keep pushing forward."
