What is true prosperity? How does it affect your life and community…from what you eat, to where you go to school, work or live? The 2017 GeorgiaForward Forum will focus on how Georgia can realize its full potential across all corners of our state from agricultural communities, to port cities, mountain resorts and metropolitan hubs. Join thought leaders from business, government, education and other sectors to discuss emerging trends and explore new ways to improve the future of Georgia. Bring your ideas and don’t miss this opportunity to participate in robust and interactive discussions to Define Georgia’s Prosperity. The 2017 GeorgiaForward Forum will take place at the Georgia World Congress Center in downtown Atlanta on September 28 & 29.
 
“As we continue our mission of uniting communities across our state to strengthen Georgia, we are excited to host this year’s Forum,” states Kris Vaughn, Executive Director of GeorgiaForward. “We feel it’s important to have everyone’s voice at the table. Community and elected leaders, business executives, farmers, nonprofit managers, lawyers, educators and engaged citizens, this event is for you.”
 
Featured speakers at this year’s Forum include Wendy Stewart, Atlanta Market President and Co-Head Southeast Region, Bank of America; Otis White, President, Civic Strategies; AJ Robinson, President of Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District; and Dr. R. Kirby Godsey, Chancellor, Mercer University and 2017 Georgia Author of the Year.
 
Break-out sessions will explore the four topics below. Following remarks by panelists with expertise in these areas, there will be a Q&A with the audience.

Technology in Agriculture. Agriculture is Georgia’s number on industry. How is technology impacting the future of agriculture in Georgia?

Young Leaders in Rural Georgia. Many of our rural communities are facing population decline. How can we retain, attract and cultivate the next generation of leaders to ensure that Georgia’s smaller towns have a vibrant future?

Georgia’s Future Workforce. A skilled, trained workforce is essential to the sustainability of Georgia’s businesses. How can we better develop connections between our early education programs and nationally ranked colleges and universities?

Sustainability of Georgia’s Infrastructure. From our water supply, to transportation options and communications, infrastructure is vital to our economy, security, health and safety. How can we better plan for future needs and sustainability of Georgia’s infrastructure?
 
There will be a panel discussion from graduates of GeorgiaForward’s Young Gamechangers program. This leadership action program is made up of young professionals between the ages of 24-40 who work on projects in communities across the state to provide big ideas and solutions to the host community’s most persistent challenges. The session will include information on past projects, as well as the future of the program.
 
Registration for the 2017 Forum is $160 and is open now: http://www.georgiaforward.org/the-forum/.