The Extension Foundation proudly announces the successful culmination of its endeavors in 2023, marking a year of significant accomplishments and strategic advancements in collaboration with the Cooperative Extension System (CES). The annual report is available on the Extension Foundation website at this link.
Throughout the year, the Extension Foundation reinforced its commitment to supporting the CES by enhancing infrastructure and expanding capacity to manage larger grant awards on behalf of the Cooperative Extension System. These efforts solidify the Foundation's ability to provide crucial assistance for national funded programs, ensuring impactful outcomes for communities across the nation.
Key leadership transitions underscored the Foundation's dedication to excellence. Following the retirement of Dr. Christine Nygren, Dr. Beverly Coberly assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer after a national search led by Dr. Fred Schlutt. Additionally, Mrs. Ashley Griffin, a seasoned Extension Foundation staff member, was appointed as Chief Operating Officer, further strengthening the organization's leadership team.
In 2023, the Extension Foundation expanded its portfolio of national funded programs, managing a total portfolio of $63M on behalf of the system:
- AgriProspects: A $10M program aimed at optimizing connections between demand and supply in the agricultural workforce. The program will establish a sustainable national network and provide mini-grants for workforce development projects.
- Extension Collaborative on Immunization Teaching & Engagement (EXCITE): Significantly advancing adult immunization initiatives, reaching millions of citizens and establishing pilot projects to enhance vaccine confidence and uptake in rural areas.
- New Technologies for Ag Extension (NTAE): Incubating and accelerating projects to increase the impact of Cooperative Extension, resulting in the funding of 36 projects spanning various focus areas and universities.
- Pesticide Safety Education Funds Management Program: Securing a cooperative agreement with the EPA to support pesticide safety education programs across 52 Land-grant universities.
The Extension Foundation extends its appreciation to all partners, stakeholders, and Cooperative Extension professionals for their support and collaboration in advancing its mission.
For more information about the Extension Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.extension.org
About the Extension Foundation:
The Extension Foundation was formed in 2006 by Extension Directors and Administrators. Today, the Foundation partners with Cooperative Extension through liaison roles and a formal plan of work with the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP) to increase system capacity while providing programmatic services, and helping Extension programs scale and investigate new methods and models for implementing programs. The Foundation provides professional development to Cooperative Extension professionals and offers exclusive services to its members.
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