William (Bill) McGowan

Certified Harwood Coach

Bill McGowan is a highly motivated, forward-thinking, pragmatic leader focused on community development and public engagement.

His early private sector career in agriculture affirmed his commitment to integrity, honesty and customer service. As a county extension agent, he was introduced to the Kettering Foundation, wicked problems, deliberation and community development professionals. His rural community and organizational work (opportunities!) covered a wide array of public issues. It was in this work he learned the public work roots of Cooperative Extension and the huge potential to revisit those roots. Citizens on Main Street introduced Rich Harwood along with catalytic organizations, boundary spanners and public innovators. After twenty plus years Bill retired from University of Delaware Cooperative Extension when asked to serve as the USDA Rural Development Director for Delaware and Maryland.

He introduced the Harwood Institute to a national audience of USDA community development specialists. In his office he focused on helping all staff turn outward. The work each professional does in community is much more than a loan officer.

Bill continues to work as a community development consultant.

He has Doctor of Education in educational leadership from the University of Delaware. He lives in rural Delaware with his wife Debbie. Bill volunteers on several boards and in his small town.