Business owners make decisions every day that reach beyond their bottom line. Hiring an employee, investing in an expansion, or supporting a community organization can shape opportunities for others and influence a community’s future.
Christopher L. Augostini has built a career at that intersection of financial stewardship, organizational leadership, and public purpose. The Emory University president will bring that perspective to Easton as keynote speaker for the 20th Annual Talbot County Business Appreciation Summit and Community Impact Awards.
Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism will host the event Thursday, April 29, 2027, from 8 to 10 a.m. in The Tidewater Inn’s Gold Ballroom. The gathering will bring together small- and large-business owners, community impact awardees, elected officials, and leaders whose decisions shape Talbot County’s economy and quality of life.
Augostini became Emory’s 22nd president on Sept. 1, 2026, after a unanimous vote by the University’s Board of Trustees. He joined Emory in 2017 and advanced to the presidency after years of overseeing the university’s finances and business operations and coordinating with Emory Healthcare.
Talbot County’s success depends on people who understand that strong businesses and a strong community grow together,” said Stephanie Mervine, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism.
Christopher brings experience connecting financial discipline, investment in people, and a shared mission,” Mervine says. “His perspective will resonate with business owners, public officials, and community leaders as we celebrate 20 years of recognizing the people and organizations moving Talbot County forward.
The summit’s 20th anniversary gives Talbot County a chance to celebrate those contributions and consider the leadership needed in the years ahead. Augostini’s career brings a broad perspective to that conversation, connecting the daily work of running an organization with the lasting responsibility of helping a community thrive.
Sponsorship opportunities and ticket sales will be announced soon, with updates and more announced in the Talbot Works newsletter and at www.talbotworks.org.