Claire Rippel, MSW leads MU Extension’s economic & community development teams. She works with faculty and staff to develop community training and technical assistance that links university knowledge and resources with the priorities of communities across Missouri. Areas of expertise include fostering community belonging, civic leadership development, and community vitality. Prior to serving as Community Development + Regional Economic Development Education Director, Claire was the University of Missouri Extension Community Engagement Specialist in St. Louis City. Claire also worked as the Director for Community Development at Grace Hill Settlement House and Community Engagement Specialist at Old North St. Louis Restoration Group.