Insights and Eggs - National Park Recognition

Description

Join the Haywood Chamber of Commerce for Insights & Eggs

Wednesday, April 1st 7:45 - 9:00 AM

Lake Junaluska Conference Center - Terrace Hotel - 3rd Floor Dining Hall

Fuel your morning with breakfast and ideas at Insights & Eggs—hosted by the Haywood Chamber of Commerce.

CO-FEATURED SPEAKER: Jacqueline Harp, CEO Smokies Life

Jacqueline Harp is the CEO of Smokies Life, joining in 2024 after nearly 18 years with REI Co‑op, where she most recently served as regional director for the Southeast. Her background also includes leadership roles at the Harris YMCA and Queens University of Charlotte, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.

An East Tennessee native and lifelong advocate for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Jacqueline brings deep outdoor‑industry experience, strategic leadership, and a strong commitment to community partnerships. She has completed the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certificate Program and serves on the boards of TennGreen Land Conservancy and Lookout Mountain Conservancy.

She is honored to help advance Smokies Life’s mission and strengthen visitors’ connection to the Smokies.

CO-FEATURED SPEAKER: George Ivy, Director, Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation

George Ivey serves as Director of the Blue Ridge Rising initiative for the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation. George will highlight how Blue Ridge Rising is uniting and serving the gateway communities of the Parkway’s 29 counties in Virginia and North Carolina. Blue Ridge Rising focuses on travel, tourism, and related economic development, including marketing, visitor experience, advocacy, natural resources, workforce education, and capacity building. He will also detail several current and upcoming projects that provide specific opportunities for Haywood County.

George’s career includes positions with Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Nature Conservancy, and the North Carolina Arboretum, as well as eight years as a consultant. George earned a political science degree at Duke University and a master’s degree in parks, recreation, and tourism from N.C. State University. A former resident of Haywood County, George now lives in Flat Rock, North Carolina, with his wife and two children. 

*Sponsor this month’s Insights & Eggs for just $350 and receive a few minutes to speak at the opening of the program, along with two complimentary tickets that include breakfast and prominent recognition in our invitation, on our website, and across our social channels. With this month’s focus on National Park Recognition, it’s a standout opportunity to elevate your business while supporting a meaningful community conversation.

Thank you to our Sponsors!