A Campaign for Virginia's Future
In a time of bitter and perilous partisanship, Virginia is blessed to have a group of leaders dedicated to building our future.
The Virginia Business Higher Education Council is working to strengthen Virginia’s position as the Top State for Talent through strategic higher education investment.
The VBHEC, led by former Speaker of the House Kirk Cox, has initiated an important campaign. Four of their leaders submitted an op-ed to the Richmond Times Dispatch outlining their efforts. That op-ed is linked below.
The co-authors are Todd Stottlemyer, Nancy Howell Agee, Dennis Treacy, George Keith Martin
Here is a quick summary for you.
Core Message
Quoting Ernest Rutherford:
When you run out of money, it’s time to start thinking.
Economic challenges create opportunities to rethink priorities and focus on high-impact investments.
As budgets tighten, investing in talent — education and workforce development — should be the top priority after safety and health.
Why Investing in Talent Matters
1. Virginia’s Competitive Edge
Talent is Virginia’s greatest economic asset for attracting business investment and sustaining growth.
CNBC cited Virginia’s education system as its leading competitive advantage.
Every $1 of higher-ed funding yields $25 in economic impact and $2 in state revenue — an investment that pays for itself.
2. Bridge to Opportunity
Education and training connect young people and adults to rewarding, well-paying careers.
College graduates earn twice as much as nongraduates on average.
Virginia ranks #1–2 nationally for graduation rates and post-graduation earnings (SmartAsset).
3. Hope for the FutureTalent fuels innovation, leadership, and civic contribution.
University research and medical centers generate $5B annually in economic activity and $450M in state revenue, creating startups and regional growth.
Current Challenges
• Competing states outspend Virginia on higher education per student:
– Tennessee: +43%
– North Carolina: +32%
• Virginia ranks 28th nationally in per-student investment — below the national average.
• Failure to invest risks losing Virginia’s Top State for Talent advantage.
Virginia Higher Education Impact Agenda
1. Talent Pathways & Internships
Provide every undergraduate with a paid internship connected to Virginia employers.
2. Affordability & ROI
Make college more affordable and ensure degrees and credentials lead to in-demand, high-return careers.
3. Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Fund cutting-edge research, commercialize discoveries, and support regional economic projects.
4. Problem-Solving & Community Leadership
Prepare civic-minded leaders who can bridge divisions and strengthen communities statewide.
Bipartisan Gratitude & Next Steps
• Acknowledges bipartisan efforts to strengthen higher education and affordability.
• The Council and Growth4VA coalition commit to working with leaders in both parties to maintain Virginia’s standing as the Top State for Talent.
Link to Richmond Times-Dispatch op-ed here. (firewall)