Mallory Rahe joined the Rural Studies Program in March 2009 as the Extension Community Economist for Western Oregon. She recently completed a master's degree at the University of Illinois in the Departments of Agricultural Economics and is currently pursuing a PhD at Illinois in Urban and Regional Planning. Mallory earned a BS in agricultural and consumer economics, with an emphasis on policy, international trade, and development. In her master's studies, she focused on stabilizing rural areas through technology, innovation, and other economic opportunities. Mallory will be working with communities in Western Oregon to provide assistance on community vitality, community development as well as other support.