Norm Van Eeden Petersman

Norm Van Eeden Petersman

As Director of Membership & Public Engagement for Strong Towns, Norm Van Eeden Petersman brings a clear message to communities: we must learn what it takes to build lasting prosperity. Norm delivers inspiring, practical talks that show audiences how to create real change—starting right where they are.

Norm Van Eeden Petersman

Norm Van Eeden Petersman, the Director of Membership and Development, is an Expert Speaker for the Strong Towns movement. A skilled communicator and community builder, Norm is an energetic enthusiast for the work that Strong Towns members do around the world.

 
 

Norm is known for his energetic, engaging, and deeply customized presentations. With a background that spans municipal government, faith leadership, construction, and rural community life, Norm speaks with authenticity and authority. His presentations are shaped by years of real-world experience—including work alongside one of BC’s most successful mayors—and his deep understanding of the needs, politics, and potential of local communities. Whether addressing elected officials, grassroots advocates, or municipal staff, Norm equips audiences with practical insights and contagious optimism.

Norm has published articles on housing, transportation, faith, and culture and his writing appears regularly on the Strong Towns site. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.

Do you have questions about membership in the Strong Towns movement? Are you ready to share your story about applying Strong Towns insights to your community? Email Norm.

We had the pleasure of having Norm Van Eeden Petersman as our guest speaker at a recent Building a Better SLO event... Although there was a wide range of expertise in the audience, Norm was able to convey the subject to everyone equally. He is a born orator with a mastery of the subject, which made for a memorable evening.

Damien Mavis, San Luis Obispo (Event Host)



Speaker Highlight: Norm Van Eeden Petersman