Kristina Cannon, president and CEO of Main Street Skowhegan, center, was recently recognized as a Rural Innovator by U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director Rhiannon Hampson, right, and U.S. Under Secretary for Rural Development Dr. Basil Gooden, at an event in Washington, D.C. Submitted photo

Kristina Cannon, president and CEO of Main Street Skowhegan, was recently recognized as a Rural Innovator by U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director Rhiannon Hampson and U.S. Under Secretary for Rural Development Dr. Basil Gooden, at an event in Washington, D.C.

Cannon was one of 14 Rural Innovators honored at a White House event recognizing the positive impact these leaders have in their communities.

Hampson nominated Cannon for the award. She wrote, “Kristina Cannon is a trailblazer who has revolutionized the way Skowhegan approaches revitalization — through asset-based, community-led initiatives — leveraging outdoor recreation, local agriculture, and entrepreneurship as powerful tools for economic development. Kristina has built trust locally, regionally, and nationally by partnering and collaborating with dozens of organizations, state and federal government agencies, and businesses. Rural Development is proud to be a partner in this work,” according to a news release.

Following the White House gathering, Cannon reflected on her experience in Washington and her work in Maine: “It’s humbling to be honored alongside highly accomplished colleagues from across the nation. In rural communities, it’s never just one person doing the work; this recognition belongs to our steadfast partners, supporters, volunteers, and my amazing team who are working tirelessly every day to ensure Skowhegan and Central Maine realize their ultimate potential as a thriving and resilient rural region.”

At Main Street Skowhegan, Cannon has led an effort to raise more than $10 million for revitalization initiatives. Under her leadership, the organization has become a major player in regional economic development, spearheading a comprehensive approach to community transformation through outdoor recreation. The organization also provides business planning support and programming as part of a regional hub-and-spoke entrepreneurial ecosystem partnership.

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