Investing in Greensboro: Susan Schwartz on the Cone Family Legacy and Building Strong Communities

How one family foundation continues to shape Greensboro through education, workforce development, and community investment.What does it mean to invest not just in buildings, but in people?In this week's Mill Talk, host Kathleen Prokesch welcomes Susan Schwartz, Executive Director of the Cemala Foundation, for a conversation about philanthropy, community leadership, and the lasting legacy of the Cone family.Founded in 1986 by Martha and Caesar Cone II, the Cemala Foundation has spent decades investing in initiatives that strengthen Greensboro and Guilford County. Susan shares how a career devoted to civic engagement led her to the foundation, why early childhood development remains one of its highest priorities, and how strategic investments in workforce development continue to benefit the entire region. The conversation also explores the deep historical connection between Revolution Mill and the Cone family, the remarkable transformation of the mill into today's thriving mixed-use community, and why preserving a spirit of collaboration remains essential to Greensboro's future.In this episode:The history and mission of the Cemala FoundationThe Cone family's enduring commitment to GreensboroWhy early childhood development changes the future of a communityBuilding a stronger workforce through education and partnershipsThe foundation's investment in GTCC's aviation programSupporting career development through organizations like StepUp GreensboroThe remarkable redevelopment of Revolution MillWhy collaboration is one of Greensboro's greatest strengthsWhether you're passionate about community development, philanthropy, education, or the history of Revolution Mill, this episode offers an inspiring look at the people quietly shaping Greensboro's future.About Susan SchwartzSusan Schwartz has served as Executive Director of the Cemala Foundation for more than twenty years, leading investments that strengthen education, workforce development, civic engagement, and quality of life throughout Greensboro and Guilford County.Learn more about Revolution Mill by visiting https://revolutionmillgreensboro.com/About Mill TalkMill Talk is a podcast about the people, stories, and connections that make Revolution Mill one of Greensboro's most inspiring communities. Hosted by Kathleen Prokesch, each episode introduces listeners to the entrepreneurs, artists, business owners, residents, and community leaders helping shape the future of Revolution Mill.Mill Talk is proudly brought to you by The Health Insurance Shoppe.