Community and capacity development is the focus of new OAC professor Dr. Derya Tarhan’s [1] research. Weaved through his research program are themes of public policy design and implementation processes, social movements and community-based activism, and adult education and learning. He has also been involved in renewable energy co-operative development in Ontario and serves as a board member of the Canadian Association for Studies in Co-operation. 

Read more about OAC’s new professor, Dr. Derya Tarhan.

Name: Derya Tarhan  
Position: Assistant Professor, School of Environmental Design and Rural Development 
Hometown: Istanbul, Turkey. 
Area of Focus: Capacity Development & Extension 
Teaching in the Fall: CDE6260 - Research Design 
 

What is the focus of your research? 

“My research focuses on the intersections of social and solidarity economies (SSE), community development, and socio-environmental change. I inquire into these theories and practices through a popular democratic participation and social justice lens.” 

Who benefits from your research? 

“I am a community-engaged scholar who works in collaboration with SSE organizations such as co-operatives and other community groups. My research projects are collaborative in design and implementation is centered on the advancement of knowledge and practice at the community level.” 

What are your passions? 

“I absolutely love teaching. I always aim for a collaborative and dialogue-based environment in the classroom that allows for everyone (including myself) to learn from one another’s experiences. In my research program, I find it incredibly meaningful to develop relationships with community groups and strive collectively towards a positive impact on practice and policy.” 

Why did you choose to come to U of G? 

“The School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph, and specifically the Capacity Development and Extension Program, is a world-class environment to advance my teaching and research programs. We attract students from around the world, which allows me to learn from a variety of perspectives and practices.  

I am also incredibly excited to collaborate with and learn from my faculty colleagues such as Helen Hambly Odame and Ataharul Chowdhury, who are global leaders in the fields of capacity, rural, and agricultural development.”