2025 Tri-State Summit Theme: Yes, And

This year, the Tri-State Summit celebrates the power of "Yes, And" thinking—where competing priorities become shared possibilities, and regional progress is built through creativity and collaboration across differences.

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This year’s theme comes to life through original artwork by Caitlin McClure of Mentone, Alabama, whose vibrant illustration captures the energy, vision, and purpose behind our flagship event. Her work will be featured throughout the conference experience — from programs to signage and digital materials.

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Over the past 15 years, I have lived in all three states within the Thrive region—in both urban and, now, rural communities. Working on this illustration has felt like a boiling-down and an honoring of the essential parts it takes to have a strong, connected community. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to share this illustration with you.
— Caitlin McClure

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Meet the Artist

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Caitlin McClure is the founder of Feel Good Design, a design studio in beautiful Mentone, Alabama on Lookout Mountain. She approaches illustration as visual problem-solving, using equal parts heart and science to create designs that are emotionally resonate and strategically sound. Caitlin is proud of her entrepreneurial spirit, her commitment to quality work, direct communication, and independent thinking. Raised in the city and now calling the country home, she refers to these qualities as being "country strong, city quick."