Featured

Michelle Rozen to Deliver Keynote Address at Tenth Annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum

Kelly Moody
Michelle Rozen

The University of Virginia's College at Wise is pleased to announce that Michelle Rozen, Ph.D., a renowned researcher and expert in the psychology of change, will deliver the keynote address at the Tenth Annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum on May 22, 2025.

Rozen, also known as “The Change Doctor,” holds both a master's degree and Ph.D. in psychology and is the author of The 6% Club. Her research published in the Journal of Social Sciences reveals that, among 1,000 people surveyed in January, only six percent managed to stick to their goals beyond February. At the Forum, Rozen will discuss the qualities and behaviors of that percentage who achieved the results they desired in leadership, business and life, and provide attendees with actionable strategies for embracing change, collaborating effectively and reaching both individual and collective goals.

The Forum will also feature a panel session moderated by Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Juan Pablo Segura. Panelists will include Glenn Davis, Director of the Virginia Department of Energy; Bryan Horn, Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development; and Rita McClenny, Director of the Virginia Tourism Corporation. The discussion will focus on current economic development initiatives and future opportunities across Southwest Virginia.

Following the Forum, attendees are invited to participate in a Regional Housing Symposium from 3:00–5:00 p.m. This event will address pressing housing challenges in the region, explore localized solutions, highlight successful public-private partnerships and discuss how to future-proof housing developments to meet evolving community needs. Symposium registration is free and available through the main Forum registration page as a ticket add-on.

"The Tenth Annual Southwest Virginia Economic Forum promises to be an enlightening and inspiring event," said UVA Wise Chancellor, Donna P. Henry. "We are thrilled to welcome Michelle Rozen and our esteemed panelists as we explore strategies for economic growth and community development in our region."

Registration for the Forum is open through May 20, and tickets can also be purchased at the door. For more information and to register, visit the SWVA Economic Forum website or contact Kelly Moody at kmoody@uvawise.edu.