2026 State of the County
Date and Time
Wednesday Jul 15, 2026
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM EDT
Location
Clayton Hall Conference Center
University of Delaware
100 David Hollowell Drive, Newark, DE 19716
Parking is free in the Clayton Parking lot.
Fees/Admission
Registration Closes July 8, 2026.
Tickets
Member Discount Ticket - $150.00
General Admission Ticket - $250.00
Description
Presented by Delmarva Power, join us for the 4th Annual State of the County on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Clayton Hall Conference Center to hear from business leaders investing in, and reimagining, the future of our growing county.
This event will bring together community leaders and residents, from diverse backgrounds, to celebrate and build awareness about the remarkable growth of our county. From the latest developments in infrastructure and transportation to groundbreaking innovation projects, you'll have the opportunity to gain firsthand insights into the exciting initiatives and projects shaping our county's future.
Don't miss out on this chance to be part of something truly special. Mark your calendar and join us for a day of celebration, connection, and inspiration.
Program:
9:00 AM - Doors Open + Networking Breakfast
9:45 AM - County Overview & Welcome
Opening Remarks from Yvonne Deadwyler, President & CEO, New Castle County Chamber of Commerce
Presenting Sponsor Remarks from Delmarva Power
County Overview from Marcus Henry, New Castle County Executive
10:05 AM – Lifecycle of a Project Panel
Speakers:
- Mike Wojewodka, President & CEO, MRA Group
- CJ Bell, Director, Delaware Division of Small Business
- Mike Cromer, Vice President, IMC Construction
- Hon. Kenneth Branner, Mayor of Middletown
- Moderated by Megan Kopistecki, Business Development Director, Delaware Prosperity Partnership
10:45 AM – Break
10:55 AM – Manufacturing, Logistics & Distribution Updates
Speakers:
- Diego Lopez, Vice President, Corporate Development, Enstructure
- Nakishia W. Bailey, Human Resources Manager, Dot Foods, Inc.
11:15 AM – Break
11:25 AM – Revitalization & Community Development Updates
Speakers:
- Logan Herring, Chief Executive Officer, The WRK Group
- Linda Jennings, Chief Executive Officer, Community Education Building
- Michael Hare, Executive Vice President, Buccini Pollin Group
11:55 AM – Break
12:05 PM – Innovation & Emerging Industries
Speakers:
- Rosa Gonzalez-Soto, Site Leader, Qnity
- Stay tuned for additional speaker details.
1:00 PM – Event Concludes
Attendees exit with boxed lunch.
