Theme: Demonstrating the resilience of Danville, VA transitioning from a “Milltown without a Mill”.

TEDxDanville took place at newly renovated District 319, home of the Stayhood Foundation a philanthropic organization dedicated to promoting positive change through arts, culture, education, and entertainment. Danville, has recently taken on the name “Milltown without a Mill” for its history of having the majority of the community and region employed by textile mills, most famously Dan River Mills Inc. Dan River Mills, laid its last employee off in 2006 which ended the esteemed company that had employed over twenty thousand people at its peak. Since Dan River Mills and other textile companies have closed their doors Danville has resiliently battle to overcome the highest unemployment in the state and nation, along with a high crime rate, and to empower entrepreneurship and development while embracing history. As a result, Danville has regained all the jobs lost from the exit of the textile industry, empowered a younger generation through entrepreneurship and community engagement, and most recent seen a reduction in crime all while receiving the prestigious All-American Award.

District 319
319 Lynn Street
Danville, Virginia, 24541
United States

Corrie Bobe

Director of Economic Development, City of Danville

Corrie, is the Director of Economic Development for the City of Danville. Corrie’s career began with the Office of Economic Development in 2009 as research and marketing manager, and she has led the economic transition from a “Milltown without a Mill” to a vibrant All-American City. Since Dan River Mills and other textile companies have closed their doors Danville has resiliently battled to overcome the highest unemployment in the state and nation, along with a high crime rate, and to empower entrepreneurship and development while embracing history.

Diana Schwartz

Executive Director, River District Association

Diana is the Executive Director of the River District Association, which was formed to help Downtown Danville businesses, it is formerly known as Downtown Danville Association. The River District Association severs as the member business association for entrepreneurial endeavors and lobbying on behalf of member businesses. As Executive Director Diana has helped to create and entrepreneurial ecosystem that is positioning Danville’s small business community for a vibrant future. She presented entrepreneurship and the importance of positioning your city center (River District) or downtown area for taking advantage of future and potential growth.

Warrick Scott

Founder/CEO, Wendell Scott Foundation

Warrick is a native of Danville, who moved back to grow the Foundation in honor of his grandfather - first Black NASCAR Hall of Famer Wendell Scott. Warrick has created educational opportunities for K-12 students through STEM by using NASCAR simulations as a method of delivery. Warrick will talk about the importance of STEM and the impact it can have on the region - economically - going forward.