An economics professor is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at an upcoming event exploring issues related to economic development in Western Colorado.

Nathan Perry, an associate professor of economics at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, will present the luncheon address at the Western Colorado Economic Summit.

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership has scheduled the summit for April 26 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. The event serves as both an annual meeting and fund-raiser for the economic development organization.

“Dr. Perry is an engaging and informed speaker,” said Karen Troester, president and chief executive officer of Grand Junction Federal Credit Union and chairwoman of the GJEP board of directors. “Perry also has intimate knowledge of the state of our local economy, which makes him the ideal keynote for the summit.” 

Perry writes quarterly economic newsletters for Delta, Mesa and Montrose counties. He’s also conducted several regional studies in Colorado, including economic impact and contributions studies as well as public land studies.

Other speakers scheduled to participate in the summit will include Will Toor, executive director of the Colorado Energy Office, and Dan Haley, president and CEO of the Colorado Oil & Gas Association. Toor and Haley each will host sessions on different aspects of the energy industry and how trends could affect the Western Slope.

John Marshall, president of CMU, will join Brian Hill, incoming superintendent of Mesa County School District 51, for what’s billed as a fireside chat.

Steve Boice and Margie Joy of the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority will lead a session on ways to meet demand for affordable housing.  

In addition, local business and community leaders will participate in sessions on arts and culture, commercial real estate, remote work and transportation.

GJEP will present its annual update as well as awards to an individual and business involved in economic development and community involvement.

Sponsors make possible the annual summit, including six-time title sponsor Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties and Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties. Other sponsors this year include St. Mary’s Medical Center, the Colorado Sun, Colorado Housing and Finance Authority and North Peak.

Ryan Brown, the president of Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties and Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties, said he’s excited to work with GJEP on the summit. 

“We are dedicated to the region’s real estate industry within our communities, and we look forward to another insightful discussion with local leaders on the growth of the Western Slope,” Brown said.

The Western Colorado Economic Summit is set for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26 at the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Advance tickets will be available online for $75 through April 19. Sponsorships also are available. For more information, visit  westcoeconomicsummit.com.