Month: March 2022

Sherry Davis-Livingston has served as the Senior 4-H/Youth Development Agent and County Coordinator in Georgetown County for more than 30 years.

“Mind-blowing” best describes the beginning and end of the EELI experience. I believe “Great Leaders” reinforce what they already know, whether organizational values or core competencies. I was introduced to leaders that truly reinforced the importance of advocates, demonstrated and provided a challenge, empowerment, accountability, and modeled the way for others to follow. The union between Clemson University and 1890 Research & Extension of South Carolina State University was commendable and way overdue. It was a delight to be a part of such a wonderful class! “Leadership It’s Not About You” is as powerful as it gets!

Over the past year, I had great opportunities for new partnerships. These include The Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce, Georgetown County School Summer Lunch Project, Georgetown County Libraries, and Georgetown County 4-H Community Gardening Project. I have also recently received several awards. These include the 2020 CAFLS Outstanding Service Award, Georgetown County Community Service Award, 4-H Distinguished Service Award, 4-H Meritorious Service Award, and 25 Years of Service Award.

Katie Collins is a Water Resources Agent in Sumter County. She has been with Clemson Extension for almost six years and recently hosted one of her favorite programs in all that time. Katie has worked with Karen Jackson to create and grow the Stream Bank Repair program for over two years. This program helps homeowners, land managers, and park staff to reduce erosion along streams using simple and cost-effective strategies. After seeing a need to increase knowledge of and appreciation for local streams in Sumter County, Katie hosted an event called “Love Your Stream: An evening at Shot Pouch Branch.” Local families and students gathered at Dillon Park to learn about their local stream, sample aquatic macroinvertebrates, and install native plants along the streambank to reduce erosion. Of the participants who participated in a follow-up survey, 100% said they gained new knowledge from the event, and it would impact their future decisions and behavior. While those are encouraging results to report, Katie’s favorite review came from a local Master Gardener’s grandson, who participated in the program. He gave her a big hug and told her, “Thank you for doing this. It really meant a lot to me.” That’s what extension work is all about, making a lasting impact on our local communities that improves the lives of South Carolina residents.