Even if you haven’t met Amanda Jarratt personally, chances are you’ve seen, first-hand, the results of her efforts to bring economic development to the city of Franklin and Southampton County.

Her leadership of Franklin-Southampton Economic Development Inc. and her work with Dan Howe on Startup Downtown Franklin has resulted in numerous businesses, both small and large, choosing to set up shop in the Western Tidewater area.

Now, as a recently appointed board trustee of the Center for Rural Virginia, she will have the opportunity to work with federal, state and local policymakers and regulators, as well as private stakeholders, to improve economic opportunities and preserve the qualify of life in rural communities throughout the entire commonwealth.

Her experience in Franklin, with its small-town feel, and Southampton County, with its rural roots, will no doubt prove invaluable.

As a board trustee, she will be in the position to bring attention to economic issues affecting the Western Tidewater region and other rural areas such as access to broadband internet, healthcare, education and more.

Congratulations, Amanda!  Your appointment is well-deserved and we at The Tidewater News are confident you will continue to be an advocate for the Franklin-Southampton area in your new role.