Photo / Courtesy Gulf of Maine Research Institute
Rhiannon Hampson
0 sec ago
Maine's former USDA Rural Development director takes post at a Portland nonprofit
The Gulf of Maine Research Institute, a Portland-based marine nonprofit, has hired Rhiannon Hampson, the recently departed USDA Rural Development state director in Maine, as its vice president for economic development.
Hampson had served as Rural Development state director in Maine since 2021, when she was appointed by former President Joe Biden. In this role, she oversaw over 70 programs and helped direct $1.2 billion in investments to support rural economic development. She stepped down in mid-January.
In her new role at GMRI, Hampson will oversee and integrate existing programs that support economic development. She will start March 10.
“As climate change presents new challenges — both natural and economic — for the Gulf of Maine region, I also see opportunities,” said Hampson. “By engaging the business community creatively, we can foster economic growth that is both sustainable and resilient.
Hampson brings a diverse background spanning agriculture, rural development, environmental policy, fisheries and forestry.
She also served as a district representative and policy advisor to U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-1st District, and co-founded and co-owning Grace Pond Farm in Thomaston.
Hampson received her bachelor’s degree in psychology and community studies from the University of Maine at Machias.
“We envision a future in which the ecosystem, economy, and communities of the Gulf of Maine region thrive amid rapid change,” said Glenn Prickett, GMRI president and CEO. “Economic development is a key part of our strategy to bring that vision to life and we’re thrilled to have Rhiannon lead this effort.”
Mainebiz web partners
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments