September 23, 2009
Clement will serve as Extension director in Clay, Cherokee counties
Doug Clement, Cherokee County Extension director since April 1999, will also assume the role of Clay County Extension director, effective Oct. 1.
His appointment was approved and announced by Clay County Manager Paul Leek, Cherokee County Manager David Badger and North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Director Jon Ort. Clement succeeds Dr. Kenneth McCaskill, who will retire Sept. 30 as county Extension director for both Macon and Clay counties.
Clement began work with Cooperative Extension in 1987 as an agricultural agent in Graham County, where he later served as county Extension director from 1993-1995. He also has worked as a 4-H agent for Cooperative Extension in Polk County.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree in education from N.C. State University.
“Doug has served in Cherokee County as Extension director and is very familiar with the needs of the citizens, the Extension staffs and county issues in the Cherokee and Clay county area. He is a 2009 graduate of Extension’s Advanced Organizational Leadership Institute and has worked closely with the Clay County Extension staff for several years,” said Harvey Fouts, district Extension director for the West District, which includes Clay and Cherokee counties.
“Doug’s experience and leadership gained in Graham and Cherokee counties has been very positive for Extension and its service to those citizens,” Fouts said. “I am now very pleased that Doug is willing to also accept leadership for Clay County and look forward to his continued excellence in managing our Cooperative Extension centers in Cherokee and Clay counties.”
Posted by Natalie at 09:00 AM
April 14, 2009
Two new county Extension directors named
Union and Buncombe counties will have new county Extension directors in May. Stephen Duckett, Rutherford County extension director since July 2005, has been named Buncombe County extension director effective May 11. Richard Melton, agricultural extension agent in Anson County since 1995, has been named Union County extension director effective May 1.
Duckett succeeds Kenneth Reeves, who retired from Cooperative Extension in November 2008, and Melton succeeds Jerry Simpson, who retired from Cooperative Extension in January.
Duckett is no stranger to Buncombe County. Prior to becoming Rutherford County extension director, he was an extension agent in Buncombe County from January 1997 to July 2005. He also served as an associate extension agent for 4-H youth development in Macon County from 1992 to 1996.
Duckett holds a master’s degree in human resource development from Western Carolina University and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Berea College.
“Steve served in Buncombe County and is very familiar with the needs of the citizens, the Extension staff and county government. His experience and leadership gained in Rutherford County has been very positive for that Extension Center and its service to the County,” said Harvey Fouts, district Extension director for the West District, which includes Buncombe County.
Prior to becoming an agricultural Extension agent in Anson county, Richard Melton was an Extension agent in Sampson County, 1989-1995, and an associate Extension agent in Hoke County, 1982-1989.
Melton holds a master’s degree in agricultural economics and a bachelor’s degree in animal industries, both from Clemson University.
“Richard brings a wide variety of experiences, not only in the animal science area, but in the extension programming area as well. He will be an asset to the staff and citizens of Union County,” said Donald Cobb, district Extension director for the South Central District, which includes Union County.
-N. Hampton
Posted by Natalie at 08:50 AM
March 02, 2009
New Extension personnel on board at NC A&T
Please join us in welcoming the following individuals into our Extension family at North Carolina A&T State University.
* On Jan. 1, Pamela Hampton-Garland became our 4-H SET (Science, Engineering and Technology) associate. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from North Carolina A&T State University.
* On March 1, Dr. Joshua Idassi joined A&T as natural resources specialist. Idassi is relocating from Nashville, Tenn., where he served as an Extension specialist with Tennessee State University Cooperative Extension. He earned his doctorate from Mississippi State University, master's degree from the University of Tennessee and bachelor's degree from the University of Kiril I Metod, Skopje, Yugoslavia.
* On March 1, Dr. Montreka Dansby joined A&T as nutrition specialist. She comes to A&T from Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., where she was a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Physiology. She earned her doctorate at North Carolina State University, her master's degree from Tuskegee University; and her bachelor's degree from North Carolina A&T State University.
Posted by Natalie at 03:00 AM
December 12, 2008
Wiggins is appointed grievance coordinator
Dr. Sandy Wiggins, Extension specialist for environmental health and housing in the Department of 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences, has been named grievance coordinator for the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service, effective Oct. 1. She replaces Dr. Wayne Matthews, who retired June 30.
The grievance program applies to all county level employees of NC Cooperative Extension at N.C. State University and N.C. A&T State University. In this role, Wiggins will:
* Coordinate a system for counseling an aggrieved employee
* Attempt to resolve informally the matter raised by the aggrieved person
* Arrange for the receipt and assessment/coordination of individual grievances
* Arrange for the receipt and assessment/coordination of general allegations by organizations or third parties of discrimination, which are necessary on individual complaints
* Recommend any disciplinary action(s) that may be warranted when an employee has been found to have engaged in a discriminatory practice
* Make recommendations to the Director/Administrator that she considers desirable, including disciplinary action that is warranted by the circumstances
Cooperative Extension is committed to the rights set forth in our grievance procedures. You may view these procedures at: http://intra.ces.ncsu.edu/DeskRef/handbook/eah-61.htm.
Posted by Natalie at 09:35 AM
November 06, 2008
Susan Ruiz-Evans new Extension director for Dare County
Susan Ruiz-Evans has been selected to replace Ann Ward as the County Extension Director of the Dare County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Ward retired earlier this year.
Read more on the WNCT-TV Web site
Posted by Dave at 08:23 AM
September 09, 2008
Childers named Harnett County Extension director
Lisa B. Childers, Harnett County family and consumer sciences agent since 1999, has been named Harnett County Extension director.
Her appointment was approved and announced by Harnett County Manager Neil Emory and Dr. Jon Ort, director, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Childers succeeds Jennifer Walker, who retired from Cooperative Extension on July 1 after 15 years as county extension director.
Childers is no stranger to Harnett County, having worked there for nine years.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in family studies and child development from Campbell University and a master’s degree in extension education from N.C. State University.
“Lisa Childers is experienced in securing outside funds to support the Cooperative Extension program in Harnett County, and this experience will be a valuable asset in her role as county extension director as she looks to expand Extension programming,” said Dr. Donald Cobb, director of Cooperative Extension’s South Central District, which includes Harnett County. “She also brings good vision for future programming in Harnett County.”
-N. Hampton
Posted by Natalie at 02:45 PM
August 05, 2008
New Granville County Extension director named
Paul W. Westfall, executive director for 11 years of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, N.Y., has been named director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension's program in Granville County.
Dr. Jon Ort, assistant vice chancellor, associate dean and director of the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University, and Brian Alligood, Granville County manager, announced Westfall's appointment, effective Aug. 5.
Westfall succeeds Johnsie Cunningham, who retired from the county director's post after more than 30 years of service.
Before assuming his Niagara County, N.Y. duties in 1997, Westfall was executive director and agriculture program leader for Cornell Cooperative Extension of Allegany County, N.Y. for four years.
Westfall chaired the New York State Association of County Agricultural Agents' 2005 annual meeting and was that organization's president in 2002, serving on its board from 1995 to 1999. He received the association's distinguished service award in 1998.
He holds a 1978 bachelor of science degree in animal science and a 1984 master's in animal physiology from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.
"Paul's years of strong Extension leadership in both Arkansas and New York ensure that he brings a wealth of knowledge that will be beneficial in leading Granville County's Extension program," said Bob Edwards, North Central District Extension director. "I'm confident he will be an excellent addition to a great team."
- A. Latham -
Posted by Dave at 04:07 PM
June 16, 2008
Baker named Yancey County Extension director
Denise M. Baker, Henderson County Extension director since September 2006, has been named Yancey County Extension director.
Her appointment, effective July 1, was approved and announced by Yancey County Manager Michele Lawhern and Dr. Jon Ort, director, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. Baker succeeds Joyce Watts, who will retire from Cooperative Extension on June 30.
Baker is no stranger to Cooperative Extension in Yancey County. Prior to becoming Henderson County extension director, she was an area family and consumer sciences agent, serving Mitchell and Yancey counties. For 27 years, she worked as an Extension agent in Mitchell County.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Appalachian State University and a master’s degree in adult and community college education from N.C. State University.
“Denise recently served in Yancey County and is very familiar with the needs of the citizens and the Extension staff and county government,” said Harvey Fouts, district Extension director for the West District, which includes Yancey County. “Her experience and leadership gained in Henderson County have been very positive for that Extension center. I am very pleased that Denise wants to continue her career in Yancey County and look forward to her leadership in providing continued excellence in managing the Cooperative Extension center there.”
-N. Hampton
Posted by Natalie at 10:47 AM
January 03, 2008
Shepherd named Ashe County Extension director
Carolyn Shepherd, who has served as interim director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension program in Ashe County since late last year, has been named permanent director of the county’s extension program.
Shepherd’s appointment as Ashe Extension director was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, Cooperative Extension director at North Carolina State University, and Dan McMillan, Ashe County Manager. Shepherd succeeds Julie Landry, who retired last year after a 32-year career with Cooperative Extension.
Shepherd joined Cooperative Extension in Ashe County in 1996 as Family and Consumer Sciences agent, a position she held until she was named interim county director. Before joining extension, Shepherd was a family and consumer sciences teacher for 10 years at North Buncombe High School in Buncombe County. She holds a bachelor’s degree in home economics and secondary education and a master’s degree in higher education, both from Appalachian State University. She is also a graduate of Beaver Creek High School in West Jefferson.
“Carolyn has worked with Ashe County Cooperative Extension for nearly 11 years,” said Bob Edwards, Extension Northwest District Director. Ashe County is in Extension’s Northwest District.
Edwards added, “She has prepared herself very well for the position of county extension director by attending a 12-month intensive training program for aspiring county extension directors. She has also had hands-on experience while serving as interim county extension director for more than a year.
“Carolyn has developed strong leadership skills that will be vital in directing the county extension staff in delivering dynamic programs and building strong partnerships that make positive impacts on Ashe County’s critical issues. She has a wealth of knowledge about the people, the local government and the needs of the county. I am very pleased to have Carolyn Shepherd as part of the district extension administrative team.”
-D. Caldwell
Posted by Natalie at 02:29 PM
November 20, 2007
Cobb named Alamance County Extension director
Roger Cobb, a long-time North Carolina Cooperative Extension agent in Alamance County, has been named to direct the Extension program in the county.
Cobb’s appointment as Alamance County Extension director was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and David Smith, Alamance County manager. His appointment was effective Nov. 6.
Cobb has been an Extension agent in Alamance County since 1983. He is responsible for planning, conducting and evaluating educational programs in crop production, pond management, turf management and dairy production. He joined Cooperative Extension in 1980 and spent the first three years of his career as an agent in Pitt County before moving to Alamance.
Cobb holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from North Carolina State University. His bachelor’s degree is in agronomy, while his master’s is in crop science. He succeeds Junius “Rett” Davis Jr., who retired in September after a nearly 34-year career with Cooperative Extension.
“Cooperative Extension has employed Roger for over 27 years. All but three of those years have been in service to the citizens of Alamance County,” said Bob Edwards, director of extension’s Northwest District, which includes Alamance County. “Roger has a wealth of knowledge about the people, the local government and the needs of the county. He has a vision and plan for how Cooperative Extension will continue to be an important player in Alamance County well into the future. I am very pleased to have Roger as part of the great northwest district administrative team.”
-D. Caldwell
Posted by Natalie at 09:15 AM
October 15, 2007
Keith named Yadkin Extension director
Nancy Keith, a long-time North Carolina Cooperative Extension agent in Yadkin County, has been named to direct the Extension program in the county.
Keith’s appointment as Yadkin Extension director was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and Eric Williams, Yadkin County manager. Her appointment is effective Oct. 8.
With the exception of six-month period in 2002, when Keith taught biology and physical science at North Iredell High School, she has been an Extension agent in Yadkin County since 1989. When she was named Yadkin Extension director, Keith was serving as an Extension area specialized dairy agent.
Keith holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science from North Carolina State University. She also has an associate degree from Mitchell Community College in Statesville. She succeeds Jack Loudermilk as Yadkin Extension director. Loudermilk retired in March.
"Nancy has been based in Yadkin County for over 15 years," said Bob Edwards, director of Extension’s Northwest District, which includes Yadkin County. "She is familiar with the people and needs of Yadkin County."
Edwards added, "She has prepared herself very well for the position of county Extension director by attending a 12-month intensive training program for aspiring county extension directors and has accepted many leadership roles within the district and state. I am very pleased to have Nancy as part of the great northwest district administrative team."
-D. Caldwell
Posted by Natalie at 10:38 AM
August 10, 2007
Dockery appointed Bladen Extension director
Dalton Dockery, associate extension agent for horticulture in Columbus County, has been named Bladen County extension director.
His appointment, which was approved by county commissioners Aug. 6, was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, and Bladen County Manager Greg Martin. Dockery succeeds Kent Wooten who held the position for four years.
Dockery began work for Cooperative Extension in 1995, as an assistant agricultural agent for Bladen and Sampson counties. He has worked for Cooperative Extension in Columbus County since 1996.
Dockery earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education and a master’s degree in Extension education, both from N.C. State University.
“Dalton Dockery will provide strong leadership to ensure outstanding Extension programs that effectively address critical issues facing Bladen County,” said Danny Shaw, district extension director for the South Central District, which includes Bladen County. “Dalton has a commitment to service and has modeled that service through innovative program delivery and impacts.”
Posted by Natalie at 10:23 AM
July 13, 2007
Leath joins UNC System leadership
Interim appointments announced
Dr. Steven Leath, associate dean for research in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service, has accepted the position of vice president for research for the University of North Carolina System effective July 16.
Leath spent 15 years as a USDA scientist before joining college administration in 2001. He has served as associate dean and director since 2005. During the last year he has led NC State’s Kannapolis Project. He also provided leadership for the Plant Breeding Center, the establishment of the NC Research Foundation, the establishment of a relationship with Northern Ireland and has overseen the college's federal and corporate relations.
Effective July 16, Dr. Steve Lommel will become the interim associate dean for research for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He will also continue as assistant vice chancellor for research, reporting jointly to Dr. John Gilligan, vice dhancellor for research, and Dean Johnny Wynne, with responsibility for being the NC State/CALS representative to the North Carolina Research Campus.
Lommel will also provide leadership for grants and contracts and the life science departments in the college. And he will continue his federally funded research program as a faculty member of the Department of Plant Pathology.
Lommel, a plant pathologist, has served as a faculty member at NC State since 1988. From 1992 to 2001 he served as an assistant director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service. He has served as assistant vice chancellor for research and graduate programs since 2001.
Also, effective on July 16, Dr. Sylvia Blankenship will become interim director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. She will include provide leadership and oversight for agricultural research programs in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences with specific responsibilities for leadership of the agricultural departments of the college, working with commodity groups, field days, federal reporting and commodity funding.
Blankenship joined the NC State faculty in September 1983 in horticultural science. She is a post-harvest physiologist with an emphasis in ethylene biology in fruits, vegetables and flowers.
Dr. Blankenship served as assistant department head in horticultural science from 1999 to May 2003 and as interim department head in horticultural science from May 2003 to October 2003. She also served as interim associate dean for administration for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, beginning November 2003. She was promoted to associate dean in February 2005.
Posted by Natalie at 11:48 AM
June 26, 2007
New Durham Extension director named
Delphine Sellars, community outreach coordinator with North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Durham County, has been named to direct the Durham Extension program.
Sellars' appointment as Durham Extension director was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and Mike Ruffin, Durham County manager.
Sellars has served as community outreach coordinator since 1998, when she joined Cooperative Extension. She holds a bachelor's degree in social studies from North Carolina Central University and a master's degree in organizational management from Pfeiffer University. Sellars came to Extension from the Durham County Department of Social Services, where she was a social worker.
As community outreach coordinator, Sellars led an effort to create the Stengthening Families Coalition and to develop an English and Spanish parent and family advocacy curriculum. She also provided leadership and training to diverse populations in addressing community and civic issues. She succeeds Cheryl Lloyd, who has taken a position as Cooperative Extension state leader for urban programs.
"Delphine brings a wealth of experience as an administrator, facilitator and trainer to the county Extension director position in Durham County," said Dr. Donald Cobb, Extension North Central District Director. "She has worked with individuals and groups across Durham County and is known as a people person. Her skills will enable her to be a successful county director in one of our more urban counties." Durham is in Extension's North Central District.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension is an educational agency supported by county governments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, N.C. State University and North Carolina A&T State University. A staff of agents in each county and on the Cherokee Reservation, backed by specialists at the two land-grant universities, conducts educational programs related to agriculture and forestry, family and consumer sciences, 4-H, community and rural development, and other issues of concern to North Carolina citizens. The Extension service is headquartered in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at N.C. State University.
Posted by Dave at 09:04 AM
June 11, 2007
New Surry Extension director named
Bryan Cave, a long-time North Carolina Cooperative Extension agent in Surry County, has been named to direct the Surry Extension program.
Cave’s appointment as Surry Extension director was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and the Surry County Board of Commissioners.
Cave joined Cooperative Extension as an assistant agricultural agent in Surry County in 1988. He holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree, both from North Carolina State University and both in Animal Science. He also holds an associate of arts degree from Surry Community College.
Throughout his Cooperative Extension career, Cave, who grew up on a small, diversified Surry County farm, has worked primarily with livestock and forage producers. He succeeds Brenda Rose, who retired after a 31-year career with Cooperative Extension, including 19 years as Surry County director.
Cave has won a number of awards during his Extension career, including the Outstanding Young Agent Achievement Award and the George and Virginia Hyatt Scholarship. He was also a finalist in the National Association of County Agricultural Agents 4-H and Youth Recognition Program.
“Bryan’s leadership experience and training have prepared him well for this position. He is familiar with the people and the Extension program in Surry County,” said Bob Edwards, Extension Northwest District Director. Surry County is in Extension’s Northwest District.
Edwards added, “Bryan is highly respected by all who have been associated with him. I’m confident he will be an excellent addition to the great team of county Extension directors in the Northwest District.”
Posted by Dave at 08:41 AM
January 05, 2007
Jack Parker joins advancement team
Jack Parker, retired swine specialist in the Northeast District, has joined the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service's Advancement Team as the Northeast regional director of development.
"Jack brings a wealth of experience to this new position. In addition to his years as a District Specialist, his previous projects include several naming-opportunity campaigns for the Eastern 4-H Center, and various projects for his church," said Dr. Jon Ort, Cooperative Extension Service director in announcing the appointment.
"Jack is a current member of the 4-H Livestock Endowment Advisory Board and the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service Advisory Board, and he will work in the Northeast District -- and with the eastern counties of the North Central District -- as we launch the new Campaign for Counties."
Parker joins Reagan Ammons (West and Southwest regions), Maurene Rickards (Northwest and Central regions) and Milton Coleman (South Central and Southeast regions) as they work with counties to assist with resource development. To complete our regional team, Sharon Runion Rowland will work with the counties surrounding Wake County, while continuing to provide overall leadership for the Cooperative Extension Advancement Team.
Other Advancement Team members are:
* Dr. Michael Martin joined the team in November as executive director of development for the 4-H Development Fund. Martin, Beth Farrell, Punk Daniels and Sarah Ray will work as a team for private resource development for the 4-H program.
* Maurene Rickards will continue her leadership as executive director of development for the N.C. Family and Consumer Sciences Foundation.
* Sonia Murphy has also joined the College Advancement Team as director of planned gifts. She is traveling the state presenting planned giving workshops and working with individual donors.
* David Hays, Keith Oakley, Sharon Runion Rowland and Sarah Ray continue their work on land gifts. By the end of December 2006, the team had closed more than $20 million in land gifts that will benefit Cooperative Extension.
* The Advancement Team is supported by bookkeeper Crystal Green and Jo Yarley, assistant for 4-H.
* The team currently has one vacant SPA position: development assistant for the Cooperative Extension Service Foundation and the FCS Foundation. (Ann Norcross, the current development assistant, is transferring to the Chemistry Department.)
Posted by Natalie at 08:39 AM
December 12, 2006
Hass is associate POD director
Dr. Lanny Hass has agreed to serve as the associate director of Personal and Organizational Development, effective Dec. 1. Hass replaces Dr. David Jenkins who retired in 2006.
Hass has worked for Cooperative Extension for over 25 years
serving in Virginia and North Carolina as an area agent and specialist. He grew up on a farm in rural North Carolina and received degrees from the University of North Carolina at Asheville (economics) and the University of Tennessee (agricultural economics). Hass earned his doctorate from N.C. State University in occupational education and is known nationally for his skills in organizational development and leadership.
"Dr. Hass brings a wealth of experience to this new position, and I know he will do great things for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service," said Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at N.C. State.
Posted by Natalie at 08:31 AM
October 27, 2006
Owen named head of POD
Dr. Mitch Owen has been named director of Personal and Organizational Development effective Nov. 1. Owen replaces Dr. Richard Liles, who retired earlier this year.
Owen joined the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in 1984 as assistant agricultural Extension agent for farm management and marketing. He also has held the positions of area specialized associate agent, Extension specialist and since 2000, he has served as innovation and organization development leader for POD.
Owen earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture and a master's degree in farm mechanization and business from Clemson University. He completed his doctorate of education at North Carolina State University in adult education, while focusing his research on technology and Jungian psychology.
In POD, his responsibilities include providing training and organizational development opportunities to Extension workers in North Carolina. His teaching and research interests include organizational development, technology, collaboration, cultural orientations and organizational change.
His work at NC State University has enabled him to work with a wide variety of groups, including universities, government agencies, volunteer groups, as well as business and industry both in the United States and internationally.
Owen has presented and published on a host of topics related to leadership development, organizational development, information technology, diversity, financial management, collaboration and adult education. He is professionally certified to administer and interpret a multitude of instruments for professional development, leadership training and team building.
"Dr. Owen brings a wealth of experience to this new position, and I know he will do great things for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service," said Dr. Jon Ort, director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in announcing the appointment. "Please join me in congratulating Mitch on his promotion as the new director of Personal and Organizational Development."
Posted by Natalie at 08:22 AM
October 13, 2006
New director appointed for 4-H Development Fund
Dr. Michael Martin has been hired as the new executive director of the North Carolina 4-H Development Fund. Martin has most recently served as director for the Pennsylvania 4-H Foundation at Penn State University. He is a former 4-H member, agent and county director. He will start his tenure on Nov. 7.
"Michael brings a wealth of experience to us, and we are excited to have him joining us in North Carolina," said Dr. Marshall Stewart, head of the 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences Department.
Posted by Natalie at 09:15 AM
September 12, 2006
Spivey is Johnston County director
Bryant M. Spivey, a long-time North Carolina Cooperative Extension agent, has been named director of Cooperative Extension’s program in Johnston County.
His appointment, effective November 1, was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, assistant vice chancellor, associate dean and director of the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and Rick Hester, Johnston County manager.
Spivey succeeds Kenneth Bateman, who retired in June after holding the county director’s position for 33 years.
Spivey has been with Cooperative Extension since 1994 in Onslow, Duplin and Pender counties. Before that, he was assistant farm manager for Preston Monds and Son Inc. at Tyner, N.C.
He holds two degrees from N.C. State, a 1993 bachelor’s with a concentration in crop science and a 2001 master’s in crop science. While working on his master’s, he was awarded a Phillip Morris Graduate Fellowship in 1998. He participated in the Phillip Morris Agricultural Leadership Development Program from 2002 to 2004.
Spivey has received numerous agriculture-related awards, including the Lois G. Britt Outstanding Extension Agent Award in 2003 and the Charles M. Brickhouse Award in 2001, also from Extension. Also: the Certified Crop Adviser Excellence Award from the N.C. Farm Bureau in 2002, the National Association of County Agricultural Agents’ award for 1999 (in 2000) and the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina’s N.C. Extension Tobacco Agent of the Year Award in 1999.
“Bryant Spivey brings a strong agricultural background to the Johnston County extension staff, ” said Dr. Donald Cobb, North Central District Extension director. “He possesses strong leadership skills that will be useful in working with the staff to address changes taking place across the county. He is well respected by his peers and we are fortunate to have him come to Johnston County.”
Posted by Natalie at 10:59 AM
August 21, 2006
Baker named Henderson County director
Denise M. Baker, an area Extension agent for family and consumer sciences in Mitchell and Yancey counties, has been named Henderson County Extension director, effective Sept. 5.
Her appointment, which was approved by county commissioners on July 19, was announced by Dr. Jon Ort, director, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, and Steve Wyatt, Henderson County manager. She succeeds Joy Staton, who accepted a position in June 2005 working with Cooperative Extension volunteer advisory groups in North Carolina.
In addition, Baker was recently named one of 10 people to receive the state's highest honor for employees: the State Employees' Awards of Excellence. Last spring, Baker was honored as one of five top employees at N.C. State University. Read more from The Bulletin
Baker has worked with North Carolina Cooperative Extension since 1974. She began work as a 4-H and home economics Extension agent in Mitchell County, and was named a family and consumer sciences agent in 1989. She has been an area agent since 2001.
Baker earned a bachelor’s degree in home economics education from Appalachian State University in 1974 and a master’s degree in adult and community college education from North Carolina State University in 1990.
“Denise brings over 30 years of Cooperative Extension knowledge and experience to enhance the existing strong programs of our Henderson County center,” said Harvey Fouts, district Extension director for the West District, which includes Henderson County. “I look forward to working with Denise, the Extension staff and our county government partners in providing resources from N.C. State and N.C. A&T State to Henderson County citizens.”
-N. Hampton
Posted by Natalie at 10:44 AM
August 08, 2006
Evans is new head of Bio and Ag Engineering
Dr. Robert Evans, a prominent water-quality expert based at North Carolina State University, is the new head of the university’s Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
His appointment is effective Oct. 1, said Dr. Johnny Wynne, the college’s dean.
Evans, recently named a fellow of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, has been a BAE Department professor since 2003 and its extension leader since 1997.
Continue reading from the WEN newsletter
Posted by Natalie at 01:35 PM
July 14, 2006
Marshall Stewart, Sandra Zaslow assume new duties July 1
The July 1 merger of the 4-H Youth developmen and Family and Consumer Sciences departments brings personnel changes that will create a new management efficiency model for this department. Dr. Marshall Stewart has assumed leadership as department head and State Program Leader for the new department of 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences.
At the same time, Dr. Sandy Zaslow will be named associate director, Youth and Family Programs. The revised organization chart for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, is located at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/Bar/about/CES-o-chart.pdf
In this new position, Zaslow will report directly to Dr. Jon Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, and will address the following needs in the area of Youth and Family Programs:
* Enhance youth and family program collaboration and partnership with NC A&T State University.
* Assist with the development of Youth and Family Programs related to Community and Rural Development.
* Assess opportunities to renew the Food Stamp Nutrition grant programs.
* Assist with development of the Expanded Foods and Nutrition Education Program partnership with NC A&T State University and provide support for the "One EFNEP" program vision.
* Work with associate directors at NC State University and the associate administrator at NC A&T State University to foster adoption of the Change Management and Marketing Initiative recommendations.
After Zaslow’s retirement this fall, this associate director title will be added to the department head and State Program Leader of the 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Sciences Department.
Posted by Natalie at 09:42 AM
April 21, 2006
Walters named Hoke Extension director
Keith Walters, a Hoke County agricultural Extension agent, has been named director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Hoke County center.
Walters’s appointment was announced by Dr. Jon F. Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at N.C. State University, and Mike Wood, Hoke County manager. Walters succeeds former Extension Director Clinton McRae, who held the position for four and a half years. McRae transferred to Richmond County in February.
Walters has worked in Hoke County as an agricultural agent since 1999. He holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s degree in extension education, both from North Carolina State University.
“Keith has a vision for the future of Hoke County Cooperative Extension that focuses on emerging issues and opportunities through which Extension can have a positive impact on Hoke County,” said Danny Shaw, district extension director for the South Central District, which includes Moore County. “Keith has developed strong leadership skills that will be vital in directing the county extension staff in delivering dynamic programs and building strong partnerships.”
Posted by Natalie at 04:14 PM
January 20, 2006
McRae named Richmond Extension director
Clinton McRae, county Extension director in Hoke County, has been named director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Richmond County center.
McRae’s appointment was announced by Dr. Jon F. Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at N.C. State University, and Jim Haynes, Richmond County manager, following approval Dec. 20 by the Richmond County Commissioners. McRae succeeds Taylor Williams, who transferred to Moore County in May.
McRae has served as county Extension director in Hoke County since 2001. He also worked for North Carolina Cooperative Extension as a family and consumer sciences agent in Scotland and Cumberland counties. He earned a bachelor’s degree in foods and nutrition and a master’s degree in human development, both from N.C. Central University.
“Clinton brings to the county director's position a wealth of leadership skills and extension program successes,” said Danny Shaw, district extension director for the South Central District, which includes Richmond County. “He will position Cooperative Extension in Richmond County to allocate university and county resources to make significant impacts on local issues.”
Posted by Natalie at 03:32 PM
January 17, 2006
Zuiches chosen as extension vice chancellor
Dr. James Zuiches, professor in the Department of Community and Rural Sociology and project leader for the National Coalition for Rural Entrepreneuriship at Washington State University, has been named vice chancellor for extension, engagement and economic development at North Caroina State University. (N.C. State's News Services) Read more
Posted by Natalie at 08:33 AM
January 05, 2006
Interim department heads named
Two interim department heads have been named in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. Dr. Michael Wagger, professor of soil science, been named interim head for the Soil Science Department. He succeeds Dr. Keith Cassel. Dr. George Barthalmus, director of undergraduate research for the college, has been named interim head of the Zoology Department. He succeeds Dr. Thurman Grove.
Posted by Natalie at 08:45 AM
December 15, 2005
Edwards will oversee volunteer education
Dr. Harriett Edwards has accepted the tenure track position of assistant professor and Extension specialist for 4-H continuing volunteer education in the Department of 4-H Youth Development at North Carolina State University./a>.
Edwards has held a number of positions in state government, including volunteer recognition coordinator for the Governor's Office; executive assistant to the secretary, N.C. Department of Economic and Community Development; director of visitor services, N.C. Division of Travel and Tourism; community planner, N.C. Housing Finance Agency.
From 1993-96, Edwards was an associate 4-H Extension agent in Granville County. She also has served as a 4-H Extension associate in the department. She holds a bachelor's degree from Campbell University, as well as a master's degree in public administration and a doctorate in training and development from N.C. State.
"Harriet has been a valued member of the North Carolina 4-H program for many years and we are excited about her continuing advancement," said Marshall Stewart, 4-H youth development program leader and department head. "We celebrate her accomplishment and wish her well in her new role."
Edwards can be reached at 919.515.9548 or harriett_edwards@ncsu.edu.
Posted by Natalie at 10:58 AM
October 19, 2005
Director named for N.C. State's JC Raulston Arboretum
Dr. Dennis J. Werner has been named director of the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University, an eight-acre working research and teaching garden maintained by the Horticultural Science Department in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
The JC Raulston Arboretum is a nationally acclaimed garden with the most diverse collection of cold-hardy temperate zone plants in the southeastern United States. As a part of N.C. State's Department of Horticultural Science, the arboretum has been largely built and maintained by N.C. State students, faculty, volunteers and staff. Plant collections include more than 5,000 species of annuals, perennials, bulbs, vines, groundcovers, shrubs and trees from more than 50 different countries.
Werner joined N.C. State in 1979 as an assistant professor of horticultural science, rising to the rank of professor in 1988. He also served as the Horticultural Science Graduate Program Director for 11 years. A long-time collaborator and member of the arboretum, Werner will begin his new duties as director on Dec. 1.
His efforts in peach breeding have led to the development of numerous peach varieties that are highly regarded and widely grown in the Southeast. Werner's most recent research efforts have shifted to ornamental plant breeding and genetics.
Werner has twice received the N.C. State University Outstanding Teacher Award and was named the Outstanding Academic Advisor in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in 1999. He is a member of the American Society of Horticultural Science, the American Horticultural Society, the International Plant Propagator's Society, the Perennial Plant Association and the North Carolina Botanical Garden.
He earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture from Pennsylvania State University and master's and doctoral degrees in horticulture from Michigan State University.
"We look forward to Dr. Werner's leadership and continued strengthening of the JC Raulston Arboretum as a major botanical research, teaching and extension institution," said Julia Kornegay, head of the Department of Horticultural Science.
-Suzanne Stanard
Posted by Natalie at 11:20 AM
October 14, 2005
Department heads named for food science, sociology
Kick named head of Sociology and Anthropology Department at N.C. State
Ward named head of Food Science Department at N.C. State
Posted by Natalie at 03:38 PM
Hagler named assistant director of N.C. Agricultural Research Service
Dr. Winston M. Hagler, a poultry science professor with 26 years of service to North Carolina State University, has been named assistant director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
The research service is the research arm of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Hagler has served as interim assistant director since July 2003, when Dr. Steven Leath, then the assistant director, was named interim director. Leath now is director of the research service.
Since 1979, Hagler has held a number of positions in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, rising to the rank of professor of poultry science in 1990. He also is an associate member of the faculties of plant pathology, animal science and nutrition. As director of the Mycotoxin Laboratory, Hagler has led a diverse program that includes regional, national, and international collaborations in Extension, analytical chemistry, plant and animal physiology, veterinary medicine, agricultural engineering, nutrition, toxicology and plant breeding.
In 2003, Hagler was named interim assistant director of the N.C. Agricultural Research Service when Leath became interim director.
Hagler holds a bachelor’s degree in general biology and a master’s degree in microbiology from Auburn University and a doctoral degree in plant pathology from the University of Minnesota. Before joining the N.C. State faculty, Hagler was a visiting scientist for a year at the Veterinary Medical Research Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Budapest.
The N.C. Agricultural Research Service has an annual budget of approximately $52 million, with an additional $50 million of expenditures in extramural grants and contracts. Approximately 350 research faculty fall under research service administration, along with 270 graduate students, other researchers and research assistants, 400 technicians and 90 support staff.
-Suzanne Stanard
Posted by Natalie at 03:29 PM
September 27, 2005
New county directors for Hyde, Moore counties
Malcolm Gibbs will become the new director of Cooperative Extension in Hyde County, and Craven Hudson will become Moore County's Extension director.
Malcolm Gibbs
Malcolm O. Gibbs has been named North Carolina Cooperative Extension director for Hyde County.
Gibb’s appointment, effective Oct. 1, was announced by Dr. Russell King, director of Cooperative Extension's Northeast District which includes Hyde County, and Kevin Howard, county manager for Hyde County.
"Mac Gibbs is uniquely qualified to provide high-quality educational programs to Hyde County citizens,” King said. “His knowledge base related to horticultural commodities is recognized not only in Hyde County, but statewide, and he has the experience to provide a vision for moving Hyde County forward both in the agricultural arena and in community development.”
Gibbs, a Cooperative Extension agricultural agent in Hyde County since 1989, succeeds the late Jean Ballance, who served for 17 years.
Gibbs, who holds a 1999 master's degree in agriculture education and a 1972 bachelor's degree in horticulture science from North Carolina State University, was a Hyde County farm owner and operator from 1976 to 1988. He was a farm supervisor for American Cyanamid from 1972 to 1975.
Craven Hudson
Craven F. Hudson, an extension agent from Gaston County, has been named director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension’s Moore County center, effective Oct. 10.
Hudson’s appointment was announced by Dr. Jon F. Ort, director of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at N.C. State University, and Steve Wyatt, Moore County manager. Hudson succeeds former Extension Director Bert Coffer.
Hudson has served as a natural resources agent in Gaston County since 2003. Previous positions with Cooperative Extension include area environmental education agent in the Upper Neuse Basin, as well as Durham, Orange and Chatham counties. He also worked as an associate agent for 4-H and forestry in Pamlico County. In addition, he was a missionary in Venezuela for two years.
Hudson holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry and wildlife from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a master of forestry degree from North Carolina State University.
“Craven Hudson is a 15-year veteran in Cooperative Extension and possesses a wealth of knowledge and leadership skills that will prove vital in directing the Moore County extension program,” said Danny Shaw, district extension director for the South Central District, which includes Moore County. “He has a clear vision for the future that will lead the Moore County extension staff to continue developing and delivering dynamic educational programs to make positive impacts on Moore County’s critical issues.”
Posted by Natalie at 03:50 PM
August 04, 2005
Ivy Reid now heads Jones Cooperative Extension
Ivy Reid has been named director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension programs in Jones County. (New Bern Sun Journal article)
Continue reading 'Reid now heads Jones Cooperative Extension'
Posted by Natalie at 09:26 AM | Comments (0)
July 22, 2005
New county directors named in Southwest District
Jim Monroe has been named county director for North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Mecklenburg County, and Steve W. Duckett has been named director of Cooperative Extension’s Rutherford County center.
Monroe has served as a agricultural agent in Mecklenburg County since 1999. He also has worked as an agent in Stanly and Orange counties. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and a master’s degree in crop science at N.C. State University.
“Jim has served the State of North Carolina well in several different roles with Cooperative Extension,” said Dr. Deborah M. Crandall, district director for Cooperative Extension’s Southwest District, which includes Mecklenburg County.
“We are looking forward to his leadership in addressing educational needs for Mecklenburg County. Jim has successfully demonstrated innovative skills in delivering and developing high-impact programs in a highly urban setting.”
Duckett, the new Rutherford Extension director, has served as agricultural agent in Buncombe County since 1997. He was an associate agent for 4-H in Macon County from 1992-96. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Berea College and a master’s degree in human resource development from Western Carolina University.
“Steve Duckett is a truly down-to-earth team member,” says Crandall, whose Southwest District includes Rutherford County. “Because of his multiple and varied programming experiences, Steve has been outstanding in making significant impacts with both youth and adult audiences.
“Steve is a quiet, calm leader and a team player. He is highly respected by customers, volunteers, peers and coworkers.”
Posted by Natalie at 08:41 AM | Comments (0)
June 23, 2005
New appointments for CALS
Steve Leath has been named director of the North Carolina Agricultural Research Service, and Sam Pardue has been named head of the Poultry Science Department.
The research service is the research arm of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Leath has served as interim director since May 2003, when Dr. Johnny Wynne, then the director, was named interim dean of the college. Wynne was named dean of the college last December. As research service director, Leath also holds the title of associate dean of the college.
Leath, a Fuquay-Varina resident, joined the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences faculty in 1985 as a plant pathologist with a U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service unit on the N.C. State University campus. He became research leader of the unit in 1999 and later served for a brief period as USDA Agricultural Research Service acting national program leader for grain crops, stationed in Beltsville, MD. He returned to N.C. State in 2001, serving as assistant director of the N.C. Agricultural Research Service.
In 2003, Leath was named associate director of the N.C. Agricultural Research Service, then interim director when Wynne became the college’s interim dean.
Leath holds a bachelor’s degree in plant science from Pennsylvania State University, a master’s in plant science from the University of Delaware and a doctorate in plant pathology from the University of Illinois. Prior to joining the Agricultural Research Service at N.C. State, he was an associate extension plant pathologist for a year at the University of Illinois, Urbana.
The N.C. Agricultural Research Service has an annual budget of approximately $52 million, with an additional $50 million of expenditures in extramural grants and contracts. Approximately 350 research faculty fall under research service administration, along with 270 graduate students, other researchers and research assistants, 400 technicians and 90 support staff.
Pardue came to N.C. State in 1989 as an assistant professor of poultry science, rising to the rank of professor in 1998. He also has served as undergraduate teaching coordinator for poultry science. Prior to coming to N.C. State, he was an assistant professor at Texas A&M University and an instructor at Lenoir Community College.
He has received numerous recognitions for his teaching, research and service achievements. At N.C. State, he has been named to the Academy of Outstanding Teachers (1996) and received the Poultry Science Association Student Recruitment Award (1993). He also received the 1994 Purina Mills Teaching Award.
Pardue earned a bachelor’s degree in poultry science and master’s and doctoral degrees in physiology at N.C. State. He was involved in postdoctoral research at the University of Massachusetts.
"Pardue brings years of experience in teaching, research and extension to the position and will do an excellent job in representing the department to the constituencies," Wynne said.
Posted by Natalie at 04:08 AM