David Thornell

About the Author

David Thornell is a seasoned economist and community development expert with over two decades of experience revitalizing small towns across America. Holding a PhD in Urban Planning from the University of Chicago, he has consulted for numerous municipalities, helping them harness local resources to foster sustainable growth and innovation. Thornell's passion for empowering overlooked communities shines through in his practical approaches to economic challenges, blending data-driven analysis with real-world storytelling. His debut book, 'Small Town Solutions: An Economic Development Guide for Small Communities with BIG Dreams,' distills years of fieldwork into actionable strategies for leaders dreaming big despite limited means. A frequent speaker at regional conferences, Thornell continues to advocate for equitable development, believing that every small town holds the potential for extraordinary transformation.