The 2024 SOAR Summit, presented by Appalachian Wireless and the Appalachian Regional Commission, is proud to announce that U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers, Dean of the House, will be a keynote speaker during the closing session on Friday, October 18, at the University of Pikeville. Congressman Rogers’ enduring commitment to shape a brighter future in southern and eastern Kentucky remains evident through his role as a driving force behind SOAR’s mission.
“Our work with SOAR is more important than ever before. We are actively developing a stronger economy with new opportunities in Kentucky’s Appalachian region, thanks to the leaders who continue to show up and invest their time and talents in this movement that we call SOAR,” said Congressman Rogers. “We need innovators, job creators, and leaders from every corner of our region to engage in this monumental effort to make our region a better place to live.”
In 2013, Congressman Rogers and former Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear co-founded SOAR (Shaping Our Appalachian Region) to address the economic challenges brought on by the decline of the coal industry. Their vision remains clear: to equip and empower communities and citizens to shape a new and prosperous future for Kentucky’s Appalachian region. Over the past decade, SOAR has become a beacon of hope and progress, fostering collaboration, innovation, and economic development throughout the region.
About Congressman Hal Rogers
Congressman Rogers is a visionary champion for the people of Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District. Serving his home region since 1981, Congressman Rogers continues to focus on improving economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drug use, strengthening our infrastructure, advancing healthcare, expanding rural broadband, preserving the natural treasures of Appalachia, avidly listening to his constituents, and giving our rural region a powerful voice at the appropriations table on Capitol Hill.
Thanks to his leadership and seniority on the House Appropriations Committee, Rogers actively secures vital funding for southern and eastern Kentucky, developing successful programs and bringing much-needed resources to the region. Whether he is in Washington or at home serving the 33 counties in his district, Congressman Rogers continues to serve as a true stateman for the people of Kentucky’s Appalachian region.
Keynote Address at the SOAR Summit
On Friday, October 18, Congressman Rogers will take the stage at the University of Pikeville to deliver a keynote address to SOAR Summit attendees. His speech will be a highlight of the three-day event, offering insights into the past decade’s achievements and the road ahead for Eastern Kentucky.
Explore the Tracks at the 2024 SOAR Summit
The SOAR Summit, taking place from October 16-18 in downtown Pikeville, offers a diverse array of programming tracks designed to cater to the varied interests and needs of its attendees. Whether you’re focused on workforce development, entrepreneurship, healthcare, or broadband expansion, there’s something for everyone. These tracks provide a structured way to engage with the topics that matter most to you, with expert speakers, interactive sessions, and ample networking opportunities.
Tracks include:
- Workforce Development
- Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Economic Development
- Connectivity and Digital Equity
- Grant and Community Development
- Healthy Communities
Register Today and Be Part of Appalachia’s Premier Event
Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Congressman Hal Rogers and other key leaders at the 2024 SOAR Summit. With tickets available for just $150, you’ll gain access to all Summit sessions, keynotes, and networking events. For those looking for an even more immersive experience, consider the Blueprint Partner Program for $300, which includes partner-specific programming and exclusive events.
Join us in Pikeville from October 16-18 to be part of the conversation and the change. Visit www.soar-ky.org/summit to register today.