EAST LIVERPOOL -- The featured speaker at Monday’s Ohio Valley Technology Council luncheon was American Spirit Initiative founder Craig Newbold. Newbold is a Beaver Local High School graduate who returned to Columbiana County after achieving success on the West Coast in the field of computer programming.Newbold spoke of his vision to provide a means for area residents to achieve the education and work skills required to meet the challenges of the 21st century. He cited a “lack of hope” as one of the key impediments to progress in East Liverpool.
With key educational institutions already in place, Newbold said he envisions East Liverpool as an “education hub” with opportunities for everyone.
“The poor and rich should have the same opportunities to receive the same level of education," he said.
As well, Newbold pointed out that our education system should focus more on supporting what students do well rather than what they do not do well. He said that the development of education in the area involves recognition of social issues that hold our area down.
Newbold mentioned that one of the problems he faces is that people assume he has a hidden agenda, but he assured those in attendance that no such agenda exists.
Monday’s event was the second in a series of quarterly luncheons sponsored by the Ohio Valley Technology Council. The guest speaker at the last luncheon was Columbiana County Port Authority CEO Tracy Drake.
Anyone in the university community interested becoming involved in Tech Council activities can contact Prof. Shawn Golden dgolden@kent.edu
