Earlier this year, the Portsmouth City Council revealed its list of new initiatives titled Portsmouth City Council’s 4 Big Things (2019). The initiatives are:
- The Best Place for Business
- Tell the Portsmouth Story
- Lifelong Learning
- The Best Place to Live
As part of the lifelong learning plans, the city will continue its educational partnerships with the public education system, higher education including regional colleges and universities, internal and external partners in workforce development programs, and seek out new opportunities to strengthen lifelong learning opportunities for its residents and others.
One of the city's higher education partners, Norfolk State University launched an advertising campaign in the spring of 2019 showcasing its economic impact on Hampton Roads. Billboards specific to each of the seven cities in the region were seen on prominent displays along key traffic corridors. Working in collaboration with city officials and local businesses, NSU photographed its students in some of the area’s most iconic locations in Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Suffolk and Virginia Beach.
Portsmouth's historic Seaboard Building on the waterfront and a restaurant located in Olde Towne were featured in the billboards. Business owners and community leaders welcomed the students into their establishments and donated their time and space to allow for some incredible photos. Student models braved the cold, rain and wind to make the billboards a success.
Since its founding in 1935, NSU has been proud to support the economy of a thriving Hampton Roads. Each year the university contributes millions of dollars to the local economy via student spending, tax impacts, employment opportunities and the upward mobility of NSU graduates within the communities the university serves.
As Norfolk State University fulfills its mission of helping its students achieve their full potential as well-rounded, resourceful citizens and leaders, university officials understand the importance that the community plays in the success of NSU. As NSU provides social and economic support to the region, the region provides opportunities and support for its students.