The final session of VTLI will provide a structured framework to learn about Public Financing, Bond Referendums, Infrastructure Funding, and Grant Opportunities in tourism, covering key topics, case studies, and actionable strategies for participants to explore financing options for tourism development initiatives.  Session IV will also explore the importance of team culture. Building a Strong Team Foundation, Communication, Empowerment, Diversity and Inclusion, Adaptability, Resiliency, Recognition, Wellness, and Measurement will all be covered, leading to fostering a positive and cohesive team culture

within their organizations.

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VTLI Session IV

June 17, 2025

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Moderator – Ned Smither, Berkley Group

Moderator/Presenter - John Zinn, University of Lynchburg Professional Development Institute

Presenters

Tiffany Gallagher, Civitas

Dan Roberts, VTC

Wirt Confroy, VTC

 

AGENDA

8:30 a.m. - BREAKFAST

 

9:00 a.m. - Overview of Public Finance, Ned Smither, Berkley Group

• · Available funding mechanisms for local projects

9:30 a.m. - Public Private Financing Partnerships, Ned Smither, Berkley Group

• CDA, TIFs, Revenue Bond (i.e. Short Pump Town Center; Hanover CDA at Bass Pro; Buckees, etc.)

 

10:45 a.m. - BREAK

 

11:00 a.m. - Tourism Improvement Districts (TID), Tiffany Gallagher, Civitas

 

Noon: - LUNCH

 

1:00 p.m. - Economics of Tourism, Dan Roberts, VTC

• Facilitated Discussion: How to use info as action item with local tourism

 

2:45 p.m. - Tourism Zones, Wirt Confroy, VTC

 

3:45 p.m. - Review the Capstone Requirement for VTLI, John Zinn, University of Lynchburg

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End of Day - Review of U of Lynchburg Credly Program and cloud resources with information. Log in, etc.

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VTLI Session IV

June 18, 2025

AGENDA

8:30 a.m. - BREAKFAST

 

9:00 a.m. - Strategies for Advocating and Passing Tourism-related Bond Referendums/Challenges and Considerations in                              Bond Financing for Tourism Projects, Ned Smither, Berkley Group

 

10:15 a.m. - BREAK

 

10:30 a.m. - Tourism Infrastructure Development – Interactive Opportunities

• Interactive Session to Role Play PPPs

 

11:30 a.m. - BREAK & CHECK OUT

 

12:00 p.m. - WORKING LUNCH: Team Culture: Talent Acquisition; Retention & Succession Planning

Jessica Macalino – President, Riverside Hospital

Jack Berry – Retired CEO, Richmond Regional Tourism

Dave Hare – President, Towne Bank Chesapeake

Roy Corby – GM, Rivers Casino Portsmouth

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