About Jina

Jina is the Executive Director of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, where she leads regional efforts to drive economic growth, land reuse, and community resilience in southern West Virginia. With a background in entrepreneurship and rural development, she works at the intersection of business, placemaking, and opportunity and stays focused on building economies that work for both people and places.

Background & Expertise

Jina’s expertise lies at the intersection of policy, place, and people. She has led initiatives in brownfield remediation, site readiness, entrepreneurship support, and regional collaboration, helping Appalachian communities compete for investment while staying rooted in local identity. With experience as both an entrepreneur and economic development practitioner, Jina brings a hands-on approach to regional growth. Her expertise includes small business ecosystems, industrial and site development, land-use strategy, and translating community vision into fundable, actionable projects.

Passion for This Work

Jina’s passion for this work is rooted in ensuring rural communities have access to opportunity without sacrificing their identity. What excites her about working at NRGRDA is the chance to reframe how the region sees itself—shifting from scarcity to possibility by turning underutilized land, talent, and ideas into engines for inclusive, long-term growth.

Outside the Office 

When she’s not working, Jina enjoys time with her family, reading, and recharging outdoors. These moments help ground her work and keep her connected to the people and places at the heart of the region.

Contact: jbelcher@nrgrda.org