Radford University president appointed to Senator Frank M. Ruff, Jr. Center for Rural Virginia Board of Trustees
Radford, VA (08/13/2025) — Radford University President Bret Danilowicz has been appointed by the Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates to serve on the Board of Trustees for the Senator Frank M. Ruff, Jr. Center for Rural Virginia, a nonpartisan organization focused on strengthening economic and social vitality across rural areas of the commonwealth. His appointment is for a two-year term, and he will be eligible for reappointment in 2027, 2029 and 2031.
Created by the General Assembly in 2004, the Center for Rural Virginia works to advance priorities including economic development, workforce and infrastructure investment, access to education and healthcare, and entrepreneurial opportunity. It operates in partnership with the Council for Rural Virginia under the umbrella of the Virginia Rural Center.
"I hold a deep passion for serving rural Virginia and leading several key initiatives at Radford University that demonstrate our commitment and support the mission of the center," said Danilowicz. "In the coming years, the New River Valley will be a greater focal point of university partnerships with local governments to help drive sustainable tourism and recreational opportunities to the university, the city of Radford and Montgomery and Pulaski counties."
Danilowicz brings to the board a combination of leadership experience in higher education and a personal and professional commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing rural communities. His background in developing innovative programs and partnerships, especially those designed to serve historically underserved regions, aligns closely with the center's mission to bring together policymakers and stakeholders to enhance opportunities in rural communities. His perspective on workforce development, education access and community engagement in rural Virginia will contribute to the center's strategic conversations and ongoing initiatives.
"We are excited to welcome President Danilowicz to the Senator Frank M. Ruff Jr. Center for Rural Virginia Board of Trustees," said Kristie Helmick Proctor, executive director of the center. "His leadership in higher education and commitment to the success of rural communities make him a valuable addition to our Board. We look forward to the insight and innovation he will bring as we continue to work together to advance rural Virginia."
The Virginia Rural Center is a collaborative initiative between the Senator Frank M. Ruff, Jr. Center for Rural Virginia and the Council for Rural Virginia. Together, they work with policymakers and stakeholders to create innovative solutions and expand entrepreneurial opportunities, promoting economic prosperity across all regions of the commonwealth. The center was created at the recommendation of the Rural Prosperity Commission.
For more information about the Center for Rural Virginia, visit www.cfrv.org.
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