Moderation, Innovation, and an Economic Development Panel to Remember

By John Denny

People who know me, know I’m pretty moderate in my views. But do they also know that I’ve learned how to moderate discussions on big topics?

Earlier this month, I moderated a panel discussion entitled: “Innovation in Economic Development.”  The half day session was hosted by the Entrepreneurial Leadership Council led by entrepreneur and Westminster College professor Eric Gaber. The ELC consists of more than 30 colleges and universities and economic development agencies in southwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Its goal is to make this region a hub for entrepreneurship.

It was an honor and an education listening to the ideas, suggestions, and programs that the panelist shared.  Hats off to Sean Luther, President and CEO of Innovate Pittsburgh; Pat Sentner, EVP of Collier International; Ben Bush, CEO of Forward Lawrence; Max Miller, Founder of Raise Your Spirits, professor at W&J College, and director of Ignite Business Incubator; Christy Bean Rowing, Executive Director of the City of Washington’s Development Corporation; and Jamie Colecchi, CEO of the Mon Valley Alliance.