This presentation was delivered at NADO's Annual Training Conference, held in Anchorage, Alaska on September 9-12, 2017. As NADO marks its 50th Anniversary and many RDOs are also celebrating milestones, the time is right to reflect on the important role that our organizations play in supporting improved quality of life in our regions and local communities. During these times of change, it is critical for RDOs to continue to serve as leaders in regional development and communicate their role and relevancy to a wide cross-section of stakeholders and funders. In this plenary, hear from executive directors of RDOs across the country who are keeping their organizations front and center on issues of regional importance and learn ways to continue to keep your organization relevant and indispensable for years to come. Tim Armer, Executive Director, North Central New Mexico EDD, Santa Fe, NM Karl Elmshaeuser, Executive Director, West Central Nebraska Development District, Ogallala, NE Nicole Griensewic Mickelson, Executive Director, Region Five Development Commission, Mankato, MN Colleen Padilla, Executive Director, Southern Oregon Regional Development, Inc., Medford, OR Martha Shickle, Executive Director, Richmond Regional Planning District Commission, Richmond, VA Anthony Starr, Executive Director, Western Piedmont Council of Governments, Hickory, NC Steve Etcher, Manager Location Strategies, Marks Nelson, Kansas City, MO, Facilitator