Brandon Dennison finalizes Almost Heaven Classic keynote panel

CHARLESTON, WV — We're thrilled to announce Brandon Dennison, founder of Coalfield Development, is the final member of our Almost Heaven Classic keynote panel discussion on Friday, June 9th, at Canaan Valley Resort.

Dennison joins Marshall President Brad D. Smith and Vantage Ventures Executive Director Sarah Biller on stage for a keynote discussion themed Investing in West Virginia's Future.

"There is an incredible feeling of positive momentum in our state right now," Dennison said. "This event will celebrate and advance that momentum. I'm excited to connect with other leaders and innovators at the tip of the spear for this new Appalachian economy which is emerging." 

For over a decade, Dennison's non-profit organization, Coalfield Development, has been uplifting southern West Virginia through community-based revitalization projects.

Since launching in 2010, Coalfield Development has created over 250 new jobs, trained over 1,200 people, leveraged over $20 million for the region, and revitalized over 200,000 sq. ft. of former dilapidated property.

"In the early days, we did it with pennies and sweat equity," Dennsion joked. "But now, as a result of this momentum I reference above, we're taking what we have proven works here locally and expanding it regionwide. We're tripling the scale of our investments.

“But I don't just view the term "investing" as financial in nature. We have to invest in our people and in our communities, so everyone can realize their full potential, power, and purpose. If we only focus on the dollars, then too many people will get left out of the exciting new opportunities emerging here in Mountain Mama.”

The panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities of investing in West Virginia's future, exploring ways in which we can support and grow our communities. 

The Almost Heaven Classic will be presented by Star USA Federal Credit Union.

The panel will be live streamed on our channels, tickets are still available if you’d like to attend.