MSU Extension

Sam Bailey is an Michigan State University Extension educator based in Charlevoix County. He holds a unique joint role where his work is shared between MSU Extension and the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) as their Strategic Initiatives Manager. The NLEA is the nonprofit economic development organization serving businesses and communities across the region of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties. He leads strategic projects focused on talent retention and attraction, economic research, and educational programming, including NLEA’s signature Economic Symposium. A key responsibility of Sam's MSU Extension work is planning of the annual Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference. 

Sam began his economic development career as an NLEA/DTE Foundation Intern and has a background in the local hospitality and service industry. He holds dual B.A. degrees in Political Science and Economics from St. Olaf College, with a concentration in International Relations, and is pursuing a Master of Public Policy with a concentration in Rural Policy from Oregon State University. He serves on the Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity’s Young Rural Champions Council, is a member of the Michigan Economic Developers Association, and a 2024 Leadership Little Traverse alum.

Outside of work, Sam enjoys skiing, mountain biking, soccer, and hiking. He also coaches youth soccer for the Petoskey Youth Soccer Association and holds a U.S. Soccer National D License.