Emma Spett is a PhD student in Sustainable Development Policy, Economics, and Governance, and received her MS in Community Development and Applied Economics in 2020, also from the University of Vermont. Her work broadly explores how networks, collaboration, and partnerships can contribute to community resilience. She conducts mixed-methods research on community economic development, transboundary water management,  flood mitigation and management, and data governance.

Emma is a graduate research assistant with the UVM Office of Engagement and newly formed Institute for Rural Partnerships, and teaches courses in the department of Community Development and Applied Economics. Prior to arriving at UVM, she worked as a community organizer and farm-based educator. In her free time, Emma is a voracious reader, and takes her dog Abe on adventures all over Vermont.

Advisors: Christopher Koliba & Asim Zia