Genesee County, MI – On Monday, April 22, UM-Flint played host to the Community Mentors Symposium, a landmark event aimed at fostering economic growth within Genesee County’s 4th district* and, ultimately, all of Genesee County. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including local leaders, business owners, and a quartet of economic development experts from across the nation, all united by a common goal: to stimulate economic development and community prosperity in our corner of Michigan. 

“We could not be more excited about the new relationships that were forged and the new ideas breathed into existence as a result of this collaboration,” said Genesee County Commissioner Dr. Beverly Brown (District 4), who quarterbacked the event with the help of the Metropolitan Planning Commission and UM-Flint’s Office of Economic Development. “We hope that this symposium will provide for us the momentum we need to bring growth and opportunity to District 4 and beyond.”

Funded by a generous grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis, the symposium served as a platform for exchanging ideas, strategies, and best practices related to economic development. One of the key takeaways from the event was the importance of future collaborations, including the exploration of a commission that would carry the torch for economic development countywide.

“If we can tear down these silos and create a new spirit of cooperation inside a common vision for growth, we can focus resources and leverage our strength as a county to make a positive impact on all residents,” said James Avery, Chair of the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. “We are building a foundation for future growth in Genesee County, and I’m excited to see where we can go in the future.”

The Symposium featured four prominent experts from California, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Georgia, each with their own unique approach to economic development. Attendees discussed place-making strategies, public-private partnerships as well as ways to promote Genesee County’s attractions and public assets. 

*The 4th District of Genesee County includes parts of Mundy Township, Grand Blanc Township, Flint Township, and portions of south Flint.

Event Photos

Media Contact
Jared Field
Director of Communications
Genesee County
jfield@geneseecountymi.gov
(810) 341-5492