KIM DAVIS | Executive director, Friends of Southwest Virginia, ’Round the Mountain Artisan Network and the Southwest Virginia Cultural Heritage Foundation

Building an inclusive creative economy in 19 counties, four cities and 53 towns requires more than vision — it demands the ability to unite communities around shared goals and to secure multimillion-dollar investments. Named executive director of a trio of entities that promote Southwest Virginia’s creative economy and tourism in 2021, Kim Davis has worked to elevate the region’s visibility. She also elevates the community.

“Whether leading regional recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, launching the Blue Ridge Rising Action Plan or cutting ribbons on inclusive public spaces like the Haysi Riverfront Park, Kim’s work centers people,” Davis’ nominator says. “She understands that tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors — it’s about building pride, creating jobs and preserving the cultural and natural assets that define Southwest Virginia.”

Prior to her current job, Davis was marketing director for the Birthplace of Country Music, a Bristol-based nonprofit that runs a museum and annual music festival. “That experience taught me the power of authentic storytelling and how creative branding can drive cultural and economic transformation,” Davis says.

In addition to her degree in communications and public relations from the University of Tennessee, Davis has an MBA from Louisiana State University Shreveport. She was one of 40 fellows selected for the 2022-23 class of the Appalachian Leadership Institute, a nine-month economic development training program. She’s also a member of the 2025 Lead Virginia class.

Return to the full list of this year’s recipients