Gov. Bob Taft will speak at about 6:30 tonight in the Walter Hall rotunda at Ohio University at a celebration marking the fifth anniversary of the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio.
Taft will arrive at around 6:15 p.m. for a reception and will speak for about 15 minutes, said Leslie Lilly, president and CEO of the foundation. A grant check of about $50,000 will be presented to a regional organization that has not been announced yet, Lilly said.
The foundation aims to enrich the current and future quality of life in the 29 counties of Appalachia Ohio by fostering access to opportunity
according to its Web site.
Taft is expected to acknowledge the achievements of the foundation and to look forward to the future, Lilly said.
The organization focuses on building the unique assets of the region, educating families about housing and health care and promoting grant-making strategies, Lilly said.
The foundation has helped secure almost $1 million in grants, Lilly said.
A new campaign that introduces opportunities for post-secondary education in Appalachian Ohio will be unveiled at the program, Lilly said.
The foundation is proud to host the program on OU's campus because the well-being of the region is tied to the ability to access education the university provides, Lilly said.
About 120 people are expected to attend a dinner before the presentation, Lilly said. Marianne Campbell, chair of the FAO Board of Trustees, and Sen. Joy Padgett, R-Coshocton, also will speak. OU President Roderick McDavis will introduce Taft, and Deborah McDavis, the first lady of OU, will host the program.
- Bethany Furkin 17
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Bethany Furkin
