panelists
Join us for a dynamic panel discussion following Esteban’s remarks. This discussion will featuring visionary cooperators from the Maine Co-op Ecosystem. Together, they’ll reflect on themes from the keynote and explore how co-ops across sectors are working toward economic democracy, stronger local communities, and sustained regional impact.
This conversation will highlight the lived experiences, insights, and bold visions of these cooperators as they strive to build a more just and sustainable Maine.
Nora Gosselin
Director of Resident Acquisitions in CDI’s New England Resident-Owned Communities (NEROC) Program
Nora helps residents in manufactured housing communities across New England organize, establish cooperatives, navigate through commercial real estate transactions, access financing, and purchase their communities. Having worked with over 30 communities at various stages of the process, and completed over $50 million in transactions, Nora is deeply knowledgeable and experienced in the needs of residents, sellers, and state laws that regulate the sale and purchases of manufactured housing communities. Nora also serves on the Board of Directors for the Cooperative Fund of the Northeast, and previously lived in a multi-family housing cooperative, serving as co-op treasurer and housing coordinator.
Scott Vlaun
Executive Director, Center for an Ecology Based Economy
As an activist and father, Scott sees a profound need to rapidly relocalize and solarize our economy to help future generations and nature thrive in the face of increasing climate instability and resource depletion. Through his work with the Center for an Ecology-Based Economy (CEBE), he also brings deep insight into cooperative development and the incubation of worker, consumer, and housing co-ops as a strategy for building resilient, community-rooted solutions.
Annie Doran
Project Coordinator, Maine Food Convergence
Annie coordinates the Maine Food Convergence Project, connecting and empowering food system stakeholders across the state. With a background in community economic and cooperative development, Annie began her career in her 20s by founding a women’s artisan collective in northeastern Brazil, which also hosted educational exchanges. Since returning to Maine, she has helped lead initiatives such as the Maine Network of Community Food Councils, Good Food for Lewiston/Auburn, and the Good Food Bus. Annie holds a Master’s in Community Economic Development and is passionate about creating collaborative, trust-based spaces where communities and movements can thrive.
Katheryn Piper
Owner and Program Manager, Five Pillars Butchery
Kathryn was born and raised in New England and has a background in social services and teaching. She took on her role as Programs Manager for Five Pillars Butchery in 2021 when the decision was made to expand the business to a USDA operation. Kathryn manages financial investments, community partnerships and programs as the business is working to establish a cooperative among local livestock growers. Kathryn actively supports cooperative initiatives including the Lewiston-Auburn Community Market (not yet operational), which aims to strengthen local food systems through a multi-stakeholder approach, accessibility and incubation.