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OUR SERVICES

Onward NRV staff are dedicated to the economic success of the region and committed to moving Virginia’s New River Valley onward.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Katie Boswell

BIO

Katie Boswell serves as the Executive Director of Onward New River Valley, where she leads the organization’s efforts to attract and retain world-class jobs, investment, and talent in the NRV and advances the Onward 2028 five-year economic development strategy for the region. She is a strategic and collaborative leader with over six years of experience in regional economic development and a background in education and marketing.

Katie holds a bachelor’s degree from Davidson College and a master’s degree from Vanderbilt University. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for several organizations across the region, including the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board, the New River Valley Housing Fund, and the Ridge & Valley chapter of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI).

In her free time, Katie enjoys reading, drinking coffee, watching comedy TV shows, and exploring the NRV on walks with her family.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Rachel Johnson

BIO

Rachel Johnson serves as the Director of Marketing for Onward New River Valley, where she leads the organization’s branding, website, digital marketing, and communications efforts to promote the New River Valley as a premier destination for business investment, workforce talent, and quality of life. She is a creative and strategic marketing professional with experience spanning management, television, entrepreneurship, and community-focused marketing initiatives.

Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Liberty University. After spending time living abroad, she chose to return to the New River Valley, drawn by its opportunities, strong sense of community, and exceptional quality of life. Through her work, she helps share the stories, assets, and opportunities that make the region a great place to live, work, and do business.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and discovering new experiences throughout the New River Valley and beyond.

TALENT & BUSINESS STRATEGIES MANAGER

Laken Blankenship

BIO

As Talent and Business Strategies Manager, Laken focuses on talent attraction and retention programs, engages with companies in Onward NRV’s targeted industries, and supports business attraction efforts. Laken holds a B.S. in Political Science from Appalachian State University and a M.S. in Human Services from East Tennessee State University and has a background in manufacturing. In her free time, Laken enjoys gardening, cooking, outdoor activities, and spending time with her loved ones.

INVESTOR RELATIONS & DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR

Mary Denson

BIO

Mary holds a B.S. in Agribusiness Management from Virginia Tech and brings a strong background in relationship-building, event management and donor engagement. In her free time, Mary enjoys traveling, attending local farmers markets, and going to Virginia Tech football games. Go Hokies!

OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Kristy Fuhrer

BIO

As Office Administrator, Kristy offers support to the Onward NRV staff. She holds a B.S. in Interior Design from Virginia Tech and has a background in adult education. In her free time, Kristy enjoys reading historical fiction, autumn in the mountains, and exploring artisan communities and international festivals.