Charlie French

Charlie French leads the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension’s Community & Economic Development Department, where he leads statewide efforts to strengthen local economies, foster civic engagement, and enhance community vibrancy. His research centers on community resilience, rural innovation, and urban agriculture.

 An Extension Associate Professor, he bridges applied practice with teaching in UNH’s Master’s in Community Development Policy and Practice program, exploring the balance between economic growth and land and resource stewardship. His expertise spans community economic development, regional analysis, digital workforce development, and rural entrepreneurship. He has also advised AmeriCorps’ National Civilian Community Corps on initiatives in climate resilience, affordable housing, and disaster response.

 Charlie’s path to Extension began as a Peace Corps Volunteer in rural Panama, followed by work as an Economic Development Educator with University of Illinois Extension. He holds a B.A. in Geography from Dartmouth, an M.A. in Regional Planning and Geography from Western Illinois University, and a Ph.D. in Natural Resources Policy from UNH.