Pennsylvania’s Lt. Gov. Austin A. Davis delivered the keynote address to Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce during the chamber’s signature annual luncheon.

Chamber members and guests from across the greater Philadelphia region, including nearby states of Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey, gathered at the Mendenhall Inn & Conference Center to hear an important message from Davis. He is the youngest person to serve as lieutenant governor in the U.S. and the first African American to hold the office in Pennsylvania’s history. 

As a young boy, he grew up watching his parents juggle raising a family and putting food on the table. At the age of 16, while living in McKeesport, Pa., gun violence came to his doorstep and became pivotal in guiding his career choice. Davis got involved in his community, starting a youth advisory council with the mayor and a youth gun violence prevention program at his high school.  Davis went on to study political science at the University of Pittsburgh, becoming a first-generation college graduate pursuing a career in public service.  

During his remarks, Davis touched on his recent achievements and challenges impacting the Commonwealth.  He also answered a moderated question-and-answer session featuring a diverse range of topics including the gas tax, permitting reform, infrastructure, childcare, early education, affordable housing, small business growth, healthcare, higher education and freedom.

“Through his thoughtful remarks and direct responses to a host of questions, the Lieutenant Governor brought a level of awareness and realism to the room that was needed and appreciated,” said Cheryl Kuhn, president of the chamber. “As we face incredibly challenging times in our country, leaders like Austin are necessary to serve our Commonwealth and its people.”  

Davis said the young people of Pennsylvania keep him motivated.  “Every time I engage with young Pennsylvanians, I see how thoughtful and passionate they are.  As a new father, I am excited to see what my daughter’s generation will do to make our Commonwealth a better place,” he said.  “Pennsylvania kids deserve a high-quality education, which includes art and music education, no matter what they look like or what zip code they live in.  These subjects are not merely enrichment; they are essential for preparing our kids to be well-rounded citizens of our Commonwealth and the world.”

During his remarks to a full house of vibrant local businesses and community leaders, Davis said he and Governor Shapiro truly believe that government can be a force for good “If we put aside our partisan differences and work together.”

Both Davis and Shapiro are serving their first terms in office after winning elections for the respective roles of lieutenant governor and governor last November.

“Our Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the longstanding signature annual luncheon,” said Kuhn. “Through the years the business community across the Philadelphia region has been inspired by remarks from international leaders. We are honored to include Lieutenant Governor Davis on this prestigious list.”

Many businesses and community leaders supported the annual luncheon through sponsorships. The presenting sponsor this year was Kendal-Crosslands Communities, the reception sponsor was Bumpers & Company, CPAs, and the keynote champion was Constellation Energy.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Cheryl Kuhn at [email protected] or 610-444-0774.