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David Hale strengthens regional growth through higher education

February 24, 2025

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The University of Richmond (UR) has spent nearly 200 years providing Greater Richmond with a steady stream of top students, faculty and staff from across the country and around the world. Recognized as a top 25 national liberal arts university by U.S. News & World Report, UR offers exceptional programs to its more than 3,500 students.

Beyond academics, the university has long been a pillar of the community, viewing regional investment and engagement as both a civic duty and strategic priority. Few understand this commitment better than David Hale who has spent over a decade as the university’s executive vice president and chief operating officer and plays a key role in cultivating the region’s -talent pipeline.

The Richmond advantage

When attracting future talent to the university, David makes it a priority to highlight Greater Richmond’s unique advantages, not just as a place to continue learning but as a place to build a life.

“Being the capital of Virginia, centrally located in the mid-Atlantic, and offering a high quality of life makes Richmond an easy sell,” said David. “With excellent schools, a wealth of recreational and cultural opportunities, and a welcoming community, it’s a fantastic place to live and work.”

Beyond its lifestyle appeal, David emphasizes the region’s strong and diverse workforce, from skilled labor to highly educated professionals. “There is a spirit of collaboration among business leaders here that makes Richmond an attractive place for businesses to thrive,” David said.

That same spirit of collaboration is embedded in the University of Richmond.

“We see it as our duty to invest in the community,” he said. “The economic vitality of Richmond directly impacts our ability to attract students, staff, and faculty and we are proud to contribute to its growth.”

One of the university’s key investments is its Bonner Center for Civic Engagement, a nationally recognized program that connects students, faculty and staff with nonprofit and governmental organizations across the region. Unlike short-term internships, these placements are deeply integrated with academic coursework, fostering long-term partnerships that create lasting benefits for both students and the community.

Another of the university’s standout initiatives is the Richmond Guarantee, which provides funding for students to take on summer research projects, underpaid or unpaid internships in Richmond, nationally, and internationally.

“This [Richmond Guarantee] program places our students in meaningful roles within businesses and organizations, creating a pipeline of talent that benefits the entire region,” David explained.

Prioritizing partnerships

David sees immense value in the university’s relationship with the Greater Richmond Partnership.

“GRP has a proven track record of attracting businesses to the region which benefits everyone. Our collaboration connects us with leaders across industries, strengthening the ecosystem for economic development.”

As a member of GRP’s Regional Leadership Circle, David has engaged in meaningful conversations with business executives about a range of issues including the importance of building diverse teams to overall workforce development. “These are authentic discussions that drive real change,” said David. “GRP provides not only a platform for dialogue, but also the data and research necessary to identify challenges and opportunities.”

His advice to business leaders considering an investment in GRP?

“It’s a no-brainer. The connections you make, the insights you gain, and the impact you have on the region’s growth make it an invaluable partnership.”

Future thinking

Looking ahead, David believes Greater Richmond’s continued success depends on expanding employment opportunities. “We are already the second-largest landing spot for our graduates just behind New York City,” he said. “The more businesses that invest in Richmond, the more graduates will choose to stay and build their careers here.”

For David, economic development is about more than just job creation, it’s about unlocking potential. “There are so many talented individuals whose skills are underutilized. By growing the regional economy, we create opportunities for everyone to thrive.”

Through his leadership at the University of Richmond, David is a driving force in shaping the future of Greater Richmond by ensuring both students and businesses have the resources they need to succeed.

Learn how to support growth in Greater Richmond through GRP investment.