Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit coming to OHIO Zanesville

Ohio University Zanesville will serve as an in-person host site for the Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, bringing together community members and organizations for a morning of storytelling, connection and inspiration centered on resilience and recovery throughout Appalachian Ohio.

The free event will take place Thursday, Sept. 3, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Elson Hall Auditorium at Ohio University Zanesville. Participants will have the option to attend in person or virtually.

The summit will highlight the strength, perseverance and recovery journeys of individuals throughout the Appalachian region. A panel featuring individuals with lived experience will offer attendees an opportunity to hear firsthand perspectives on recovery, resilience and the power of community support.

Dr. Richard Greenlee, dean emeritus of Ohio University Eastern, will serve as the keynote speaker, presenting “Pickin' Walnuts: A Story of Hardship, Hope and Healing.” Designed to create opportunities for meaningful conversation and connection, the summit brings together individuals, community organizations and advocates who share a commitment to supporting resilience and recovery across the region.

The Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit is being presented simultaneously at multiple locations throughout Southeastern Ohio through the collaboration and support of organizations committed to resilience and recovery in Appalachian Ohio, including Regional ADAMH Boards, SETICC Ohio, The Gathering Place in Appalachian Ohio, Athens HOPE, Appalachian Children’s Coalition, Ohio University Zanesville and Shawnee Family Health Center in Portsmouth.

The Appalachian Stories of Resilience and Recovery Summit is free and open to the public, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available. Space for in-person attendance is limited, so register today. Community members are encouraged to join this opportunity to listen, learn and connect through stories that demonstrate the strength, hope and resilience found throughout Appalachian Ohio. For questions about the summit, connect with Kassie Settles at kassie@ohio.edu.

You can register here for the summit.