Colleen Hammelman

Dr. Colleen Hammelman is urbanCORE’s 2025–2026 Faculty Fellow and an associate professor in the Department of Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences. In this role, she is launching a new initiative to advance engaged scholarship across campus—building on her deep commitment to community-centered research and teaching.

A recipient of the Bonnie E. Cone Professorship for Civic Engagement, Colleen has led impactful work through the Charlotte Action Research Project (CHARP), fostering partnerships with more than 15 community organizations. Her scholarship centers on food systems, public health, and urban agriculture, with key initiatives like the State of the Platefood system assessment and the Community Innovation Incubator in West Charlotte.

She brings a collaborative, equity-focused approach to research, ensuring that community voices drive both the questions and outcomes. Colleen has secured over $391,000 in research funding and co-authored numerous publications rooted in reciprocal partnerships. She holds a Ph.D. in Geography and Urban Studies from Temple University, a master’s from American University, and a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University.