Excellence in Public Service Award, 2024
UNH Cooperative Extension
It is with great pleasure that we present the University of New Hampshire's Excellence in Public Service Award to Shannon Rogers. As a state specialist and Extension associate professor in the department of natural resources, Shannon has dedicated the past seven years to advancing nature-based economic development across New Hampshire. Her applied research, supported by the National Science Foundation, Environmental Protection Agency and state funding, has significantly contributed to the state’s economic resilience by leveraging its natural resources.
One of Shannon’s notable accomplishments includes an economic impact study of New Hampshire's rail trails, which has guided the state’s strategic expansion of this vital network, benefiting both the economy and local communities. Additionally, her Downtowns and Trails program has successfully connected municipal trails and downtown businesses, resulting in enhanced recreation facilities, improved wayfinding and strengthened local economies.
She also led a UNH Collaborative Research Excellence project, fostering partnerships with multiple UNH departments, New Hampshire's Office of Outdoor Industry and Economic Development and organizations like the Granite Outdoor Alliance. Her work has established her as a key figure in nature-based economic development, known for her ability to forge multisector partnerships and drive impactful community engagement.
Shannon's unwavering commitment to enhancing New Hampshire's economy through nature-based initiatives and her exceptional leadership in fostering community partnerships make her a truly deserving recipient of the Excellence in Public Service Award.
About this Award
This award recognizes and honors exceptional achievements in the area of public service. Individuals who receive this award have engaged in outstanding service activities that are dependent on their academic expertise and that support the mission of the university. The types of activities to be honored should be related to a candidate's academic field and may include exceptional service to local, state or federal governments, to non-profit organizations or agencies, to business or industry, and to the university. UNH benefits-eligible faculty members are eligible, except those who have received this award within the last five years.
