On October 2, 2024, WGGP hosted an Alumni Lecture by Annie Contractor on "Community Engagement, Rural Edition: Navigating Local Power and Conquering the Fear Factor". The lecture explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by rural communities in fostering effective community engagement. The discussion dissects the dynamics of entrenched local power structures, the role of trust in overcoming hesitation, and strategies for empowering residents to claim their power in decision-making processes. This talk aims to provide practical insights for academics, policymakers, and community leaders working to enhance civic involvement in rural settings.