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The September 12 Extension Council Day on Campus provided a chance for great tours, good food, and exceptional camaraderie as extension council members learned about the ISU research that translates to the programs you offer in your county.
In addition to tours, council members heard from ISU and IECA leaders:
- Assistant Vice President for County Services Andrea Welchans talked about the new expectations for staff serving in the County Services unit.
- IECA Executive Director Jennifer Vit provided an update on the optional IECA dues assessment, including the decision to hire a lobbyist to help with governmental affairs on behalf of extension districts.
- Athletic Director Jamie Pollard shared an update on CyTown and the economies of how it will become an economic driver 365 days a year.
- Vice President Jason Henderson provided a luncheon address and thanked councils for their support and engagement.
Evaluation results indicate that participants overwhelmingly feel more connected to campus following the event. The following comments highlight the enthusiasm council members have for this event:
- “I enjoyed all of my day. I am a first-time extension council member; this tour really enabled me to see more of the partnership with ISU.”
- “The enthusiasm and knowledge of the faculty member who conducted the greenhouse tour was impressive! He has a true understanding of balancing extension, the students, research, growers and impact.”
- “Loved seeing campus and getting updated on expansion projects. Loved connecting with other county extension council members. Excited to share with my local council and hope more members will be able to attend in the future.”
- “Excellent opportunity to learn about the unbiased work that is being done, the passion, the impact on not only Iowa but the country and beyond. Energizing!”
- “I really understood my purpose of being on the council.”
- “In the networking and chatting on the bus, you just learn more and more that these are good people who care about their community!”
- “The quality of the tour was amazing! The representatives in each department were so knowledgeable, and it was very fun to listen to them and engage with them. 10/10!”
Additional photos are available to view. Watch for information on next year’s Extension Council Day on Campus coming soon!