“The industries that were once the backbone of our region are necessarily evolving,” said Ohio Sen. Brian Chavez, R-30th, as he heralded the launch of Marietta College’s Center for Appalachian Innovation.

In fact, Chavez expects the center to “play a key role in exploring how we can reinvigorate and develop these industries with new and inventive approaches.”

Surely the Center for Appalachian Innovation will do that and much more, as it is meant to focus on not just economic growth, but increased community engagement. Research will be aimed at tackling systemic regional challenges and providing opportunities to support communities through both business and policy.

“It will bring together lawmakers, community and business leaders, educators and students to look squarely at our region’s needs from economic development and health care access to infrastructure and energy,” said Ohio Rep. Kevin Ritter, R-94th.

While one can understand why neither politician leaned too heavily on ideas such as economic diversification (not simply reinvigorating old industries, but inviting new ones) and being willing to have honest conversations about whether “the way things have always been done” might be a contributing factor to those systemic regional challenges, surely those at Marietta College who will lead the center understand their responsibility.

“By shaping partnerships with government and industry, we connect our students to our region,” said Marietta College President Dr. Kathleen Dougherty. “We introduce local businesses and government to their future workforce and we strengthen the economic outlook of Appalachian Ohio.”

It is encouraging to know students are already excited about doing the work that will be the center’s focus. Let us hope that as they make their discoveries and recommendations, policymakers and stakeholders are ready to listen.