The Iowa Extension Council Association is made up of a 25-member board of directors who represent the 900 county extension council members in the State of Iowa. Extension council members are elected officials who oversee the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach efforts in their county. These elected officials are responsible for the county's Extension and Outreach budget, directing the county's Extension and Outreach program, and hiring the employees to carry out the work that serves the needs of Iowans.
New IECA Board Members Elected
Congratulations to the following newly-elected and re-elected board members. They will serve a 3-year term beginning at the next IECA board meeting on June 6. (Note that * indicates re-election to another term.)
- Region 2: Roberta Hersom, Palo Alto County*
- Region 4: Kirk Phelps, Mitchell County*
- Region 7: Dennis Hammen, Calhoun County
- Region 9: Crystal Doering, Hardin County
- Regions 10 & 28: Linda Jacobsen, Fayette County
- Region 21: Matt Rohrig, Adair County*
- Region 22: Cheryl Beaver, Page County*
- Region 24: Lisa Jones, Madison County
- Region 26: Chrissy Westercamp, Van Buren County*
We also extend hearty thanks to our outgoing board members who wrap up their IECA service in June. These four individuals have provided thoughtful insight and helped guide the direction of the association during their terms. Thank you for your service!
- Bruce Clark, Black Hawk County
- Mark Davitt, Warren County
- Mollie Scott, Sac County
- Ruth Wilcox, Grundy County
Extension Council Day on Campus
Save the Date: September 18, 2026
Mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Extension Council Day on Campus. We'll be meeting in Ames on Friday, September 18, 2026. The day will be full of behind-the-scenes tours of Iowa State University where you can see extension research in action and learn about programs to meet the needs of Iowans. More information coming in June.
Video: Understanding Roles within Extension
Video: Understanding Roles within Extension
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is a big organization with a complex partnership between ISU and your county extension district. This session will help outline "who's who" and "who does what" at the county, regional, state, and federal levels, as well as how it impacts you as a council member. And, no, there won't be a quiz at the end of the session.
Video: How Councils Can Co-Create the Future of Extension
Video: How Councils Can Co-Create the Future of Extension
Hear Vice President Henderson's explanation of the current funding climate for extension and learn how county extension councils can position their county programs for sustainability in the future.
Video: Reading the Monthly Financial Reports
Video: Reading the Monthly Financial Reports
Watch Video and View Resources
Your county extension council was created as a taxing authority to collect and allocate dollars, according to Iowa Code Section 176A. But do you know how to read the monthly reports you receive? Learn what to look for and how to use the information to ensure your budget is progressing as planned throughout the year.