
Public Policy Committee
The Charlottesville Chamber Public Policy Committee (PPC) serves as a legislative and regulatory think tank that provides crucial business perspective on matters directly impacting the region. Through collaborative advocacy and focus on key policy areas, the committee informs the Chamber's policy positions and works to strengthen the business community and quality of life across Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Meeting Information
Regular meetings are held 12:00pm -1:30pm every even month at the Center for Nonprofit Excellence and every odd month on Zoom. Regular meetings are open to Chamber members only.
Committee Guidelines & Member Responsibilities
The PPC operates under Board-approved focus areas and clear governance principles to ensure effective, credible advocacy. Committee members are expected to:
- Advise within the Board-Approved Framework: Provide input and recommendations aligned with the Chamber's endorsed policy focus areas
- Respect Governance & Decision-Making Processes: Understand that official positions are developed collaboratively through established governance procedures
- Collaborate with Partners: Work with local and regional organizations to advance shared priorities with a unified voice
- Engage Thoughtfully and Constructively: Bring diverse, solutions-oriented perspectives that reflect the Chamber's mission
- Serve as Informed Ambassadors: Communicate Chamber positions accurately and responsibly
Read the full letter from CEO Andrea Copeland detailing the complete committee guidelines and governance framework.
Connect with the Public Policy Committee through the Chamber's newsletter. For real-time bill tracking in the Virginia General Assembly, follow the Virginia Chamber of Commerce "Bills We're Watching" resource with the password: bills2026.
Public Policy Focus Areas
Economic Vitality
Education & Workforce Training
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
Infrastructure
Housing
Annual PPC Events
Public Policy Leadership Team
Vice Chair

Neil Williamson, President & Executive Director
The Free Enterprise Forum
Staff Liaison

Andrea Copeland, President & CEO
Charlottesville Chamber
Executive Committee
Chris Engel, City of Charlottesville Office of Economic Development
Coles Jennings, The Community Climate Collaborative
Courtney Cacatian, Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau
David Newsome, Tapestry LLC
Diantha McKeel, Albemarle County
Emily Kilroy, Albemarle County Economic Development
Grant Tate, BBTx Consulting
Jane Colony Mills, Loves & Fishes
Dr. Jean Runyon, Piedmont Virginia Community College
Jennifer Siciliano, UVA Health
John Spilman, LUMOS
Juandiego Wade, City of Charlottesville
Kelly Dye, First Citizens Bank
Mike Murphy, Jaunt, INC.
Ned Gallaway, Albemarle County
Olivia Branch, Keswick Hall
Pamela Sirota, UVA Health
Rebecca Haydock, Venture Central
Sally Duncan, Albemarle County
Affinity groups are led by volunteer leadership committees and a Chamber liaison. To serve in a leadership capacity, you must be a current Chamber member in good standing.









