Christopher Hinshaw, a Vanceboro resident, is the new permanent director for the Greater East Grand Economic Council. Since his first day on the job in September, Chris has been on the road meeting with people across the region to listen to their concerns, hopes and aspirations for their community. His concerns about remote rural sustainability, poverty’s impact on children and families, and community resilience, led him to explore this job opportunity and say “yes” to the board’s offer to lead the organization forward.

Chris and his wife, Alaine, started their Vanceboro homestead in 2016 after Alaine’s father’s property passed on to her. Chris and Alaine have lived throughout the US and Central American in both urban and rural communities.

Chris is an educator with thirty years teaching experience in American history, government, politics, global studies and educational administration including being head of school/principal of 2 schools. Earlier in his career he worked for two community development organizations, one in rural Kansas and the other in Commerce City, Colorado. His past fundraising and strategic planning experience will be very beneficial for the GEGEC and the region.

Hiring Chris as director is an important next phase for the region and the economic council. In order to achieve this milestone, the council secured three years of operations funding from two foundations based on the demonstrated accomplishments and commitment by volunteers, town leaders, local organizations, and the council over the past ten years. We are grateful to CF Adams Charitable Trust, and Elmina B. Sewall Foundation for their confidence in our collective ability to move the region’s priorities forward under Chris’ leadership.

Please reach out to Chris at chinshaw@sunrisecounty.org