2025 Summer Conference Recap
Our summer conference at the beach never disappoints, and “Cast Away” was no exception! Nearly 180 members, sponsors, students, and guests enjoyed the warm weather and perfect backdrop as we networked, heard from shared experiences, and learned ways to better ourselves and the localities we serve. Conference Co-Chairs Eric Pollitt and Joseph Quesenberry did an outstanding job, lining up a stacked agenda brimming with current topics, deep dives with member panels, and great networking time. Primary areas of focus in the conference included building and maintaining relationships, the economy and related current affairs, and navigating challenges through leadership.
Dwayne Yancey, Founding Editor of Cardinal News, led off with insights on the General Assembly, population changes and related trends in Virginia, and thoughts on recent federal changes and their impacts. A spirited Q&A was followed by a roundtable session covering hot topics and relevant issues with local leaders. Virginia Beach’s City Manager welcomed us Thursday, followed by a panel of seasoned colleagues who covered a wide range of questions submitted by conference attendees. The “Who’s Your Wilson” session probed the development of strong relationships between managers and their deputies, and Dr. Sheryl Bailey gave a fascinating update on the Commonwealth’s economy (and beyond). The day closed with a short cruise, and the dolphins were impressive! Friday kicked off with a meaningful session on artificial intelligence from Winchester City Manager Dan Hoffman, and our closing session on Pioneering Leaders yielded impactful insights from managers who represented “firsts” in their communities. We always enjoy hearing from industry experts and others, but experiences through our colleagues’ lenses are always thought-provoking and powerful.
If you attended, thank you! Please take a few moments and fill out our conference survey and let us know what you’d like to see in future gatherings. If you couldn’t make it, we missed you and hope to see you this winter in Roanoke!
Christian Goodwin
VLGMA PDC Chair