Rural communities are the fabric of the Midwest. The 2012 Indiana Rural Summit brings together innovative speakers, new research and inventive programs to present public leaders with fresh ideas for advancing healthy, wealthy and wise communities, the theme of this year’s summit.

This two-day event takes place on Nov. 14-15, at the Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel. The cost is $150 for the full summit or $75 for one day. Lunch is provided. Seating is limited and online registration is available on the Office of Community and Rural Affairs’ website: www.in.gov/ocra/ruralsummit.htm

“This event enables community leaders, legislators and other stakeholders to share innovative partnerships that can be duplicated in Indiana or other Midwest communities,” said the deputy chief of staff of the Lt. Governor’s Office, David Terrell.

Featured speakers will include:

• Lt. Governor Becky Skillman – Keynote Speaker
• Elaine Matthews – North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center Director “Rural Innovation”

Sampling of the Healthy, Wealthy and Wise sessions:

• Healthy:

Local Food Systems
Rural Hospitals: An Economic Driving Force
Rails to Trails

• Wealthy:

Local Foundations & Community Development
Indiana’s Local & Regional Foods Assets

• Wise:

Creative Workforce
Rural Youth Innovation
Stellar Communities