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Public Policy

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.

Regular meetings are held 12:00pm -1:30pm every other month at the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Meetings are open to Chamber members only.

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.

2025 Public Policy Focus Areas

The Charlottesville Regional Chamber of Commerce advocates for a thriving regional economy through balanced, strategic decision-making. Under advisement from the Public Policy Committee, our Board of Directors has endorsed five key focus areas that guide our advocacy efforts.

These focus areas represent where the Chamber is best positioned to create meaningful impact. We collaborate with regional chambers and business advocates to speak with a unified voice on both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities that strengthen our business community.

All advocacy efforts are viewed through an equity lens to ensure we support policies that benefit the entire business community and create opportunities for all.

Economic Vitality

Education & Workforce Training

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Infrastructure

Housing

Annual PPC Events

State of Community Feb 2025 (44)

State of the Community

The annual State of the Community brings together leaders from industry, hospitality, nonprofit, and government sectors. This signature event features presentations from regional thought leaders on demographic trends, economic vitality, and community challenges. It fosters collaboration and forward-thinking solutions across Charlottesville and Albemarle County.

The 2026 State of the Community date and time will be announced soon.

Executive Committee

Chair

Dr. Mariane Asad Doyle

Dr. Mariane Asad Doyle, Executive Director

Center for Nonprofit Excellence

Staff Liaison

Andrea Copeland

Andrea Copeland, President & CEO

Charlottesville Chamber

Staff Liaison

Jenna Huber

Jenna Huber, Marketing & Events

Charlottesville Chamber

Executive Committee

Brian Pinkston, City of Charlottesville

Chris Engel, City of Charlottesville Office of Economic Development

Courtney Cacatian, Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau

Diantha McKeel, Albemarle County

Emily Kilroy, Albemarle County Economic Development

Jennifer Siciliano, UVA Health

John Spilman, LUMOS

Juandiego Wade, City of Charlottesville

Ned Gallaway, Albemarle County

Neil Williamson, Free Enterprise Forum

Nicole Hawker, Heart and Soul Fitness

Rebecca Ivins, Hourigan