Extension Employee News

Dear Extension Family,

As we move forward into another busy season, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for the work you do every day on behalf of South Carolina’s people, farms, families, and communities. This issue of our newsletter reflects the full scope of Extension’s impact — from federal partnerships that support our agricultural producers, to the personal stories of perseverance, collaboration, and service that define who we are as an organization.

You will find an editorial from Cody Simpson, State Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency, highlighting recent federal efforts aimed at strengthening the farm economy and supporting producers during continued uncertainty. These policy updates and investments matter deeply to the communities we serve, and Extension plays a critical role in helping ensure farmers and landowners understand and access available resources.

This issue also celebrates the heart of Extension — our people. From Amie Mabe’s inspiring educational journey and commitment to youth development, to the collaborative spirit behind the Blessing Box Project, these stories showcase Extension professionals going above and beyond to meet local needs. You will also see opportunities to engage our youth through the 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program, reminders of upcoming events, and well-deserved recognition of milestones, achievements, and new members of our Extension family.

I am continually proud of the professionalism, compassion, and dedication you bring to your work. Your efforts make a real difference, often in ways that cannot be fully measured, but are deeply felt across our state.

An Editorial from Cody Simpson

A Year of Putting South Carolina Farmers First 

By Cody Simpson, State Executive Director, USDA Farm Service Agency – South Carolina

Since January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump has been working around the clock to put American Farmers First. Here in South Carolina, farmers and ranchers know the challenges firsthand – rising input costs, volatile markets, extreme weather, and years of policies that prioritize bureaucracy over producers. As a fifth-generation farmer, I understand the impacts that these challenges have had on our family farms.

This year, President Trump and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins have worked at record speed to deliver real relief and long-term reforms, working hand-in-hand with the Farm Service Agency to ensure these resources are reaching our farmers and rural communities right here at home.  

Trump Administration has delivered more than $30 billion in ad hoc assistance to farmers nationwide since January 2025. 

Here in South Carolina, this includes $52 million through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP), $42.7 million in disaster relief through the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP), and $23.6 million in assistance for specialty crop and livestock producers. After over 50 on-farm visits speaking with farmers and ranchers, these programs help farmers recover from weather disasters, inflation, and market losses that have been left unaddressed for years.

Just as important, the Trump Administration strengthened the farm safety net through legislation in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. For the first time in more than a decade, statutory reference prices for major commodities were raised by 10–21 percent, and more than 30 million new base acres were added to the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs beginning in 2026. Crop insurance was also made more affordable, saving farmers over $400 million annually, with expanded support for beginning farmers and ranchers, a critical investment in the future of agriculture.

USDA is also working to lower farmers’ costs by restoring competition and cutting red tape. New actions with the Department of Justice are targeting price fixing and anti-competitive behavior in key input markets like seed, fertilizer, and equipment. Partnerships with the Department of Labor (DOL) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have also led to significant reforms to the H-2A program. An Interim Final Rule published by DOL in October reformed the H-2A Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR)—providing over $2 billion in annual savings for farmers—and a Final Rule published by DHS reduced the time it takes to navigate the H-2A application process by allowing concurrent filing. These reforms help make the H-2A program more affordable and accessible, ensuring producers have access to the labor they need at a more affordable cost.

USDA has been prioritizing the purchase of healthy, U.S.-grown commodities with the intent to purchase up to $970 million in this year alone, under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935. These purchases support farmers while supplying food banks, schools, and nutrition programs – strengthening agriculture and food security in communities like South Carolina.

One of the most significant actions of this year was the announcement of $12 billion in Farmer Bridge Payments – designed to help farmers weather ongoing market disruptions, elevated production costs, and continued volatility while longer-term reforms take hold. This bridge assistance reflects President Trump’s commitment to ensuring farmers are not left behind as the farm economy recovers. 

These payments are intended to provide stability and certainty for producers as USDA continues to deliver disaster assistance and implement the improvements made under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. While SDRP signups are ongoing, USDA is ensuring farmers have access to immediate relief today while positioning them for expanded market opportunities ahead.   

Under President Trump’s leadership, we are rebuilding American agriculture to be stronger, more competitive, and more resilient. The Trump Administration is expanding global market access for American agriculture. New trade deals and frameworks with more than 15 countries are opening doors for U.S. beef, grains, dairy, specialty crops, and biofuel exports. These wins matter here in South Carolina, where exports support farm income, rural jobs, and long-term economic growth.

At the Farm Service Agency, our mission is simple, but bold: serve farmers, not bureaucracy. The Trump Administration’s Farmers First agenda is delivering real results: relief today, stronger safety nets tomorrow, and expanded markets for the future – but this is just the beginning. 

I have the honor to serve the wonderful farmers and ranchers in our beloved South Carolina. Every day, the Farm Service Agency will continue to fight to ensure they have the tools, freedom, and opportunity to succeed for generations to come. We are the greatest state in the nation. 

W. R. “Cody” Simpson, III

State Executive Director | South Carolina

Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Office

From FFA jacket to 4-H change agent

Greenville County 4-H agent Amie Mabe’s journey to earning her master’s degree is anything but traditional. Balancing Extension work, family life and military deployments, Mabe’s story is a powerful example of perseverance, mentorship and the impact of Extension in shaping future change agents. Read more about her inspiring path and commitment to the next generation. https://news.clemson.edu/from-ffa-jacket-to-4-h-change-agent-meet-amie-mabe/

A Story of Collaboration and Going Above and Beyond – Blessing Box Project 

A very special thank you to the Clemson Extension family for your incredible support and dedication to the Blessing Box project. This effort is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when we work together in service of others. Because of you, the Blessing Box is now in place and providing much-needed food resources for South Carolina State University students—something that would not have been possible without your collective efforts.

Amanda, your leadership in initiating and organizing the Mid-Carolina Gun Club and the 4-H Shooting Team was truly instrumental. Their generous donation of time, labor, and materials made the construction of the boxes possible and allowed the initial $1,000 grant to be fully used for purchasing food items. In addition, the more than 400 food and hygiene items they collected ensured the Blessing Box was fully stocked from day one. You went above and beyond, and your commitment made a lasting impact.

Jonathan and Zach, thank you for stepping in to pick up, transport, and install the Blessing Box. Your willingness to help—and your efficiency—allowed the project to be completed before classes began this week. You made the installation look easy, and your skills and teamwork were truly a blessing and deeply appreciated.

Michelle, thank you for traveling to be there, capturing photos, and offering encouragement throughout the process. Since my first week on the job, you have been a constant source of support and guidance, and I am truly grateful.

This project reflects the very best of Extension—collaboration, generosity, and a shared commitment to serving our communities. It is a blessing to work with each of you.

Thanks again,
Roxane Cummings

Rural Health and Nutrition Extension Agent

Orangeburg and Bamberg Counties

Cooperative Extension

Call for Career Table Top Hosts | 4-H Pinckney Leadership Roundup 

As we celebrate 10 years of the South Carolina 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program, we are excited to introduce Career Table Tops at our upcoming 4-H Pinckney Leadership Roundup events.

Career Table Tops provide youth with the opportunity to engage directly with professionals and Extension personnel to learn about:

• Your role within Clemson Extension or your program area
• The pathway you took to get there
• Skills, education, and experiences that helped shape your career

These tables are designed to be interactive and conversational, helping youth see real-world connections between their interests, 4-H experiences, and future career possibilities.

We would love to have Extension professionals represent a variety of program areas at the following locations:

• Columbia, Saturday, January 31st
• This location is sold out with 250 youth and adult leaders expected representing 19 counties.

• Florence, Saturday, March 14th
• Charleston, Saturday, March 28th

If you are interested in hosting a table or would like more information, please let me know which location(s) you are available for.

Thank you for all you do to support youth development across South Carolina. We look forward to showcasing the many pathways available through Clemson Extension and helping our youth become beyond ready for what’s next.

Best,

Rushawnda Olden
4-H Pinckney Leadership Director

State Fair:

The 2026 South Carolina State Fair is set to run from Thursday, October 15 through Sunday, October 25.  Please plan to represent Extension at our booth in the Ellison Building on one of these days.  Any questions or comments, please reach out to Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu

Salesforce

Please take a moment to update your Role on your User Profile in Salesforce.  To do so, hover over your photo icon along the top toolbar and click.  This will open up to your User Profile.  Please update your Role to reflect your County and Program team, ex) Anderson – Agronomic Crops Agent. This helps easily identify users when navigating in Salesforce.

Service Milestones:

I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

Millie Davenport, Director of HGIC, 20 years; Jeremy Greene, Agronomic Crops Program Team, 20 years; Mallory Maher, Master Naturalist Program Coordinator, 10 years;

Congratulations to Dr. Patricia Ann Whitener!

I would like to congratulate Dr. Patricia Ann Whitener for graduating with her Doctor of Philosophy in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management. For the future, Dr. Whitener says “I plan to enjoy not having to balance work and school. I’m looking forward to just being able to focus on working with the 4-H Natural Resources Committee to Make the Best Better through educating and connecting youth with the natural resources in our beautiful state.” 

New Employees 

Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:

• Alexis Windham: Rural Health and Nutrition Agent, Lee and Sumter Counties
• Lina Prillaman: 4-H Agent, Berkeley County

NEW! SCBG Wildflower Walks

Greetings from the South Carolina Botanical Garden! We have some exciting news that we hope you all will help us share. CU students and employees can enjoy free guided wildflower walks at SCBG!

Step into spring with us! Clemson University students, faculty, and staff are invited to enjoy free weekly guided wildflower walks along our peaceful Natural Heritage Trail. Wander at a relaxed pace with an experienced guide, soak in the beauty of the spring while discovering the hidden stories of our local plants and wildlife.

On Wednesdays, beginning March 11, join us to discover brand-new landscapes—fresh blossoms, unfolding leaves, and the ever-changing colors of spring. No two walks are the same, so come often and watch the Garden come alive! Space is limited, so pre-registration is required.

More details can be found on our Eventbrite registration page.

IN CLOSING …

In closing, I want to again thank you for the dedication, professionalism, and heart you bring to your work every day. Whether you are supporting producers, mentoring youth, strengthening families, or building healthier communities, your efforts embody the mission of Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Please take time to review the opportunities, announcements, and recognitions in this issue, and join me in celebrating the many accomplishments of your colleagues. Our strength as an organization comes from collaboration, service, and the shared commitment we have to the people of South Carolina.

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families. Thank you for your continued service, and for the difference you make—often quietly, but always meaningfully—across our state.

Upcoming Events and Reminders

• Please share your latest accomplishments, awards, publications and other newsworthy updates with Christi Leard ccampb3@clemson.edu to get in the Director’s Newsletter!

Dear Extension Family,

As we celebrate this holiday season, I want to extend my warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy Hanukkah to each of you. This time of year holds deep spiritual significance for many of us, offering a moment to reflect on the numerous gifts and experiences we’ve had throughout the year.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to become absorbed in our individual challenges and overlook the support and love surrounding us. I encourage everyone to take time during this holiday season to express appreciation for those who are most important in our lives, reminding them they are cherished and valued.

Looking back on this year in Extension, we’ve experienced our share of highs and lows, amidst confusion and frustration. At times, it felt as if we were undervalued or misunderstood. I’m sure there were moments when my own demeanor seemed challenging. During those tough times, I leaned on my beliefs for guidance, patience, and strength. Together with Mr. Lanford and Dr. Burns, we engaged in morning devotions that helped us prioritize our mission and focus on what truly matters for Extension: the health and well-being of our faculty and staff.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for all the hard work and dedication shown by the Clemson Cooperative Extension Team this year. Your unwavering commitment has been the driving force behind successful programs and strong stakeholder engagement, making South Carolina a better place to work and live. Your efforts in connecting with stakeholders—and improving their lives—have not gone unnoticed.

We are fortunate to live in a country where, despite its challenges, we enjoy the freedoms that allow us to thrive. As we gather with family and friends this season, let’s celebrate our successes, take the time to relax, and reflect on all that we are thankful for. Together, we can continue to “Make the Best Better” in 2026.

Warm regards, 
Tom

LEVER HALL OF FAME – CALL FOR NOMINATIONS 

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – NOMINATIONS ARE DUE, DECEMBER 31^ST

WHAT IS THE A. FRANK LEVER HALL OF FAME?

The A. Frank Lever Extension Agent Hall of Fame recognizes former Clemson Extension Agents for superior contributions and outstanding leadership in promoting the Extension mission in their home community and throughout the state of South Carolina. Persons selected for recognition will be honored and formally inducted into the Lever Hall of Fame at a ceremony conducted in the spring of 2026.

WHO IS ELIGABLE 

Former Extension Agents who have exemplary records of accomplishment in leading Cooperative Extension programs and sustained successful leadership within the organization at various levels will receive priority consideration for induction into the Hall of Fame. Individuals may be considered for induction into the Hall of Fame when their contribution has made a major impact on the condition of community, state or a larger area of the country and the Extension Organization has benefited long term from the leader’s sustained efforts 

WHO CAN MAKE NOMINATIONS?

Any member of the community may nominate persons for induction into the Hall of Fame.  Nomination forms must be submitted to the Committee by December 31, 2025.

WHAT IS THE SELECTION PROCESS?

With the support of Extension staff appointed by the Extension Director, the Hall of Fame Selection Committee evaluates the entire list of nominees each year during its annual Selection Committee meeting. All nominations not selected will remain on file and in consideration for future induction in perpetuity.

The Committee is a representative group of Extension leaders, advisors and former award recipients who volunteer their time and knowledge to help select and induct nominees to the Lever Hall of Fame.

HOW TO MAKE A NOMINATION

Visit the Lever Hall of Fame site at http://www.clemson.edu/extension/lever-hof/index.html . Select the Nominate tab and complete the online form. As an alternative, you may contact Marie  Bolt at jeanneo@clemson.edu or (864) 656-2508 for a fillable word application.

2026 Alston Award for Excellence in Public Relations – Nominations Open Until February 2, 2026

You are invited to nominate a colleague for the 2026 Rowland P. Alston, Sr., ’42 Award for Excellence in Public Relations.

The award was established in 2009 to recognize outstanding Clemson University faculty or staff who, through programs and activities related to agriculture and/or natural resources, have provided Clemson University with positive visibility throughout South Carolina, the United States, and the world. Recipients may be from any discipline or area of the university but should utilize agriculture or the natural resources as their vehicle of influence.  

The award includes a $2,500 stipend and a plaque for the recipient. The award is made possible by an endowment established by Rowland Alston, retired extension agent and former host of the public television program “Making It Grow,” in memory of his father.
A representative committee of faculty and staff will select the award recipient. Nominations are confidential, and nominees should not be apprised of their nominations. 

Guidelines and a nomination form are available at:  

Alston Award for Excellence in Public Relations Nomination Form

The selection committee will review the nominations and select the recipient. The recipient will be announced in early May in conjunction with other University Awards. Please direct any questions you have regarding the award to Chairman of the Selection Committee, Gerry Dukes at gdukes@clemson.edu. The deadline to complete nominations is Monday February 2, 2026.

Service Milestones:

I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:
Pamela Barnhill, Administrative Coordinator Florence County, 30 years; Carmen Ketron, Urban Horticulture Agent and Master Gardener Coordinator for Darlington and Florence Counties, 10 years; Jessica Simpson, Anderson County 4-H Youth Development Agent, 20 years; Christopher Talley, Livestock & Forages Agent, 20 years; Victoria Cushman, Administrative Assistant Richland County Cooperative Extension Office, 20 years; Lucy Charping, Abbeville County 4-H Youth Development Agent, 10 years; Teresa Lott, Midlands District Director, 10 years; Nathaniel Smith, Associate Professor and Extension Economist, 10 years.

New Employees 

Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:

• Bradley Secraw: Consumer Horticulture Agent/Master Gardener Coordinator, Sumter and the point of contact for Lee and Clarendon Counties
• Daniel Lyon: Food Crop Horticulture Agent, Orangeburg County 
• Meagan Jordan: Administrative Assistant, Lee County

Job Openings

We have new openings to fill with talent. The following positions with their job ID numbers are currently posted on the Clemson Careers website. http://www.clemson.edu/careers

• Livestock and Forest Agent, Saluda, Job ID 110092
• Pickney Leadership Program Coordinator, Clemson, Job ID 110090

IN CLOSING …

As we close out this edition, thank you for taking time to stay connected to the people, opportunities, and accomplishments that make Extension strong. Please consider nominating deserving colleagues for our upcoming awards, join me in congratulating our service milestone recipients, and help us welcome our new team members. Your engagement and support continue to shape our shared success. Wishing you a restful holiday season and a strong start to the new year as we move forward together to Make the Best Better.

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Upcoming Events and Reminders

• The 2026 holiday schedule is now available on the Office of Human Resources website. In accordance with state law, Clemson University will close on Election Day in 2026. To meet this requirement and maintain the customary five-day winter break, there will be no optional holiday in 2026.
• Coffee Chat and ELT meetings will resume in February with new links and calendar invites.
• Please share your latest accomplishments, awards, publications and other newsworthy updates with Christi Leard ccampb3@clemson.edu to get in the Director’s Newsletter!

Dear Extension Family,

I hope everyone had a restful weekend and is ready to tackle another productive month. It’s been a busy fall season with strong participation at the National FFA Convention, Sunbelt Ag Expo, and the South Carolina State Fair. I continue to be impressed by the dedication and teamwork that make these events successful and showcase the best of Clemson Extension across the state.

As we move through our financial system transition and prepare for upcoming budget adjustments, I want to thank each of you for your patience, professionalism, and focus on service. Your efforts—whether helping at the fairgrounds, supporting local food drives, or assisting communities affected by the government shutdown—truly demonstrate what it means to serve South Carolina.

Thank you for all that you do to make Clemson Extension a trusted partner in every county. Let’s keep working together to move our organization—and our mission—forward.

Rural Health and Nutrition – Food Pantry Guide!!

Clemson Extension’s Rural Health and Nutrition Teams have developed a comprehensive Food Pantry Guide to support communities in improving food access and promoting healthier choices. The guide provides best practices for establishing, managing, and sustaining food pantries, with an emphasis on food safety, nutrition education, and community partnerships. By combining research-based strategies with local engagement, Clemson Extension aims to strengthen food security and empower individuals and families across South Carolina to make nutritious, affordable food choices.

https://www.clemson.edu/extension/health/resources/food-pantry-guide.html  Please share. RHN team is working on getting this guide out to the state. More info to come about an Extension food drive.

Clemson World – Remembering Cooperative Extension’s Izora Miley

In 1921, Izora Miley joined the Cooperative Extension service and went on to serve Hampton County for 26 years. During her tenure, she dedicated herself to empowering farm families by teaching practical skills such as food preservation, nutrition, sewing, and home management. Through these efforts, she helped improve the daily lives and well-being of countless households.

To learn more, please see the Clemson World article recounting her story: Clemson World – “Common Threads”

State Fair:

A sincere thank you to everyone who contributed to making this year’s South Carolina State Fair booth a success! This year’s display highlighted the innovative work happening across Clemson Cooperative Extension, featuring 4-H’s STEM Artificial Intelligence activity, Food Safety Tailgating tips, and Dr. Beecher’s impressive aquaponics and hydroponics exhibits.

Looking ahead to next year the State Fair will run from October 15–25. If you are interested in showcasing your programmatic work, please reach out—this is a fantastic opportunity to share your impact with a statewide audience.

National 4-H Week culminates at the State Fair

National 4-H Week was celebrated October 5-11, 2025, this year and youth are learning skills such as teamwork, resilience, and communication—skills that will serve them in their career and for life.  The week culminated at the South Carolina State Fair with youth showcasing their skills through various exhibits! Our 4-H members well represented the fair’s theme of  “Harvesting happiness” from ceremonies, livestock shows, exhibits, rides, and more! 

On Thursday, October 9th, 4-H State Teen Council joined the American 250 Day Proclamation honoring South Carolina’s agricultural roots while celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary.  Additionally, on Saturday, October 11th, South Carolina 4-H celebrated another 4-H Day at the South Carolina State Fair. Over 100 4-H members, volunteers, parents, and agents from all over the state gathered for county roll call and a parade of counties in the Nutt Cattle Arena.

And everyday from opening day to closing day was filled with members and their show animals in the barns and showrings, entries from our youth in crafts and baked goods, and Agents staffing the AI in Agriculture exhibit in the Extension Booth at the Ellison Building. From start to finish, 4-H made its mark at the South Carolina State Fair—celebrating learning, leadership, and community while truly harvesting happiness along the way!

2025 SC State Fair 4-H Poultry Showmanship, October 11, 2025

A little rain did not deter the sunshine that was under the poultry showmanship tents at the 2025 South Carolina State Fair Poultry Showmanship Competition held on Saturday, October 11.  There were 66 contestants registered, 16 Cloverbuds, 30 Juniors and 20 Senior 4-H members.  It was a great day for learning, friendly competition and the support of loved ones. 

The top three division (Cloverbud, Junior and Senior) winners were invited to participate in the Championship Round.  Final results were:

3^rd Place:  Mary Anna Childers, Cherokee

2^nd Place:  Emma Uhall, Abbeville

1^st Place:  Blake Proffit, Clarendon

Thanks go out to Mr. Clint Attaway-South Carolina State Fair, Steve Hucks-South Carolina 4-H Agent and 4-H Ambassadors for keeping the competition moving.  Special thanks goes out to Christine Heinrichs from the American Poultry Association (APA) for donating books she wrote as additional awards for each division.  

Congratulations to all our participants and winners.  Special Thank You to the South Carolina State Fair hosting the show, providing premiums for awards and for the support of the South Carolina 4-H Program.   

The South Carolina State Fair hosts an annual Dairy Costume Contest

The South Carolina State Fair hosts an annual Costume Contest for their junior exhibitors that traditionally falls on the Friday evening of the Dairy Show.  Through this competition, youth showcase the South Carolina State Fair theme which was “Harvesting Happiness” with their Dairy Cattle.  13 youth teams dressed up and paraded their entries to an enthusiastic crowd.  Sutton Norris, Laurens/Greenville 4-H Dairy Club received a first place award and Sawyer Norris, Laurens/Greenville 4-H Dairy Club was selected as second.  Awards were graciously provided by Dairy Alliance.

The South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation Scholarships awarded at the South Carolina State Fair.

The South Carolina State Fair works cooperatively with the South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation to offer six (6) specific scholarships to qualified South Carolina youth applicants that are exhibiting at the State Fair.  This competitive scholarship competition has a series of requirements that must be completed to be considered eligible to be considered for this tremendous honor.  The following scholarship awards were awarded during the 2025 South Carolina State Fair: 

Market Goat: Ellen Shaw, Newberry

Congratulations to the 2025 South Carolina Farm Bureau Federation Scholarship recipients.  We encourage all interested youth to apply for 2026 and view specific requirements that will be available in July from the South Carolina State Fair website.

Additional scholarships are presented at the South Carolina State Fair through generous donations from individuals and or groups.  Please check out additional scholarships awarded at the 2025 South Carolina State Fair:  https://www.scstatefair.org/competitions/livestock-scholarships/.

Thank you to South Carolina Farm Bureau, South Carolina State Fair and additional donors for their generous support of South Carolina livestock and equine youth. 

2025 South Carolina State Fair 4-H Rabbit Showmanship Results

The South Carolina State Fair 4-H Rabbit Showmanship Competition was held on Saturday, October 11.  There were 56 youth registered: 12 Cloverbud, 24 Junior and 20 Senior 4-H members.  

The top two division (Cloverbud, Junior and Senior) winners were invited to compete for Overall Showmanship honors.  Final results were:    
Overall Grand Champion – Emma Uhall, Abbeville County
Overall Reserve Champion – Arden Epps, Colleton Count

Much appreciation to Mr. Clint Attaway-South Carolina State Fair, Freddricka Presley, South Carolina 4-H Agent-Florence County and Eric Eliassen, South Carolina 4-H Agent- Lexington County for keeping the competition running smoothly.    

Congratulations to all of our participants and award recipients.  Special thanks to the South Carolina State Fair for hosting the show, providing awards and for their continued support of the South Carolina 4-H Program.  

Savannah Swine Project

South Carolina 4-H members from the Savannah Valley region recently completed the 2025 Market Hog Project, which began with a kickoff event in July and concluded with the annual sale on October 25. Fifteen youth showcased their hard work through participation in the Orangeburg Fair, the South Carolina State Fair, and the Regional Record Book Contest. Congratulations to Lawson Weilnau, Champion Senior; Paige Ulmer, Reserve Champion Senior; Kolsen Gibson, Champion Junior; and Sadie Hutto, Reserve Champion Junior. For more information about the 2026 Savannah Valley Swine Project, contact Meghan Barkley at mebarkl@clemson.edu

FFA National Convention 2025

The Honorary FFA American Degree is the highest honor presented by the National FFA Organization to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to agricultural education and the FFA. This prestigious recognition honors those who have gone above and beyond to advance agricultural education, strengthen the FFA, and make a lasting difference in the lives of students.

The Honorary FFA American Degree symbolizes a deep commitment to agricultural youth, leadership development, and the future of agriculture in America. Representative Patrick Haddon is the epitome of dedication to the future of Agriculture. On Friday, October 31, 20225, Representative Haddon was awarded the Honorary FFA American Degree at the 98th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN. While currently serving as First Vice Chairman of the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs Committee and Chairman of the Operations and Management Committee, Representative Haddon has been an outstanding advocate for Agricultural Education, the SC FFA Association and South Carolina 4-H. 

Representative Haddon continues to be a dedicated and influential supporter of South Carolina’s agricultural future and the FFA is grateful for his leadership.

Salesforce:

Please make sure your Salesforce entries are complete.  Program Events require the Extension Project Number, County, Hours of Interaction, and note, please update the Status bar, as well.

Interactions require the Extension Project Number, County, and Hours of Interaction.

Check out Extension Foundation for Resources!

Reminder: Don’t forget to take advantage of your Extension Foundation membership! Established 19 years ago by Extension Directors and Administrators, the Foundation supports Cooperative Extension professionals through professional development and exclusive resources—helping increase visibility, impact, and effectiveness in addressing local issues.

Check out Connect, the Foundation’s private social platform for Cooperative Extension staff, Land-grant University professionals, community partners, and federal agencies. Connect lets you share resources, promote events, and collaborate nationwide. With over 150,000 monthly public views, it’s also a great place to highlight your programs. Specialized groups focus on key national priorities like Health Equity, Workforce Development, Climate, and Urban Extension.

Anyone at a Land-grant University can join—no membership required. Create your free account today!

Congratulations to Dr. Robert Carter

I would like to congratulate Extension Agent Dr. Robert Carter for recently publishing a book, Catawba Nation Ethnobotany.  Researched and written by Dr. Robert Carter, Outdoor Education Coordinator and Clemson Extension Agent, this book compiles research detailing the variety of uses for plants the Catawba had. 

Davidson College hosted a lunch and learn on September 24.

Congratulations to Mrs. Amy Dabbs!

Members of the five cohorts of the Extension Emerging Leadership Initiative and the Walker family gathered at SC State University to honor the legacy of the late Dr. Marlyne R. Walker (2020 EELI graduate and SC State University alumna). Marlyne passed away in 2022 and was a positive, enthusiastic, and dedicated leader in Clemson Extension and the Extension Emerging Leadership Initiative.  In 2023, an award was created in her honor to keep expanding the legacy of leadership, service, and mentorship.

The 2025 recipient of the Dr. Marlyne Walker Memorial Leadership Award is Mrs. Amy Dabbs, Statewide School and Community Gardening Coordinator.  Amy exemplifies transformational leadership in Cooperative Extension through her visionary work in school and community gardening programs across South Carolina. As a graduate of the inaugural Extension Emerging Leadership Initiative (EELI) cohort in 2020, Amy has demonstrated exceptional growth in leadership capacity, translating her passion and purpose into measurable statewide impact. Amy’s exceptional work has earned significant recognition with her programs receiving several national awards.  She makes significant contributions across Extension teams in Horticulture, Agriculture, Rural Health, 4-H, and Natural Resources, demonstrating the interdisciplinary leadership cultivated through EELI . She played a pivotal role in establishing the TEACH Center in Charleston, SC, demonstrating her commitment to building sustainable infrastructure that supports ongoing education and community engagement. Congratulations to Amy for her outstanding work!

Congratulations to our Agents that got promoted!

Congratulations to our agents on their well-deserved promotions! Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving our communities have not gone unnoticed. Each of you has demonstrated exceptional leadership and professionalism, and this achievement reflects your continued excellence and impact. 

Associate UK45

Senior Associate UK47

• Katie Collins (Altman)
• Drew Jeffers
• Travis Mitchell
• Miracle Rabon

Senior UK49

• Tine Horn
• Zachary Snipes

Distinguished County Agent

• Sherry Davis-Livingston
• Jeffery Fellers

We’re proud to celebrate your success and look forward to seeing the great things you’ll accomplish in your new roles.

Job Openings

We have new openings to fill with talent. The following positions with their job ID numbers are currently posted on the Clemson Careers website. http://www.clemson.edu/careers

• Nutrition Educator, Spartanburg County, Job ID 110021
• Nutrition Educator, Florence County, Job ID 110020
• Nutrition Educator, Kershaw County, Job ID 110019
• Nutrition Educator, Laurens County, Job ID 110023
• Building/Ground Supv II, SC Botanical Gardens, Job ID 110016

IN CLOSING …

As we wrap up a full and successful October, I want to express my gratitude for your continued dedication, creativity, and teamwork. From representing Clemson Extension at statewide and national events to developing innovative community resources like the Food Pantry Guide, your work continues to make a meaningful difference across South Carolina. The stories and successes shared this month—whether at the State Fair, in classrooms, or in local communities—reflect the passion and purpose that define our organization. Let’s carry this momentum forward into the busy months ahead, continuing to serve, educate, and inspire. 

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Upcoming Events and Reminders

• The 2026 holiday schedule is now available on the Office of Human Resources website. In accordance with state law, Clemson University will close on Election Day in 2026. To meet this requirement and maintain the customary five-day winter break, there will be no optional holiday in 2026.
• Please share your latest accomplishments, awards, publications and other newsworthy updates with Christi Leard ccampb3@clemson.edu to get in the Director’s Newsletter!

Dear Extension Family,

As we welcome the crisp days of October and all the vibrant energy fall brings, let’s take a moment to reflect on the exciting milestones and accomplishments from September.

Last month was filled with meaningful recognition, impactful events, and new beginnings. We celebrated the official naming of the John W. Parris Interchange, honoring a lifelong champion of conservation and agriculture in South Carolina. Our NIFA/USDA visit was spotlighted nationally, showcasing the strength of our programs and partnerships. We also celebrated the release of the newly revised South Carolina Master Gardener Training Manual, a resource that will continue to grow our state’s gardening expertise.

Our Extension family grew with several new team members joining us across the state—welcome! And we honored both service milestones and outstanding professional achievements, including a national award for Dr. Patty Scharko.

Looking ahead, October promises continued engagement through events like the State Fair, Disability Awareness Month, and the ever-popular Fall Plant Sale at the SC Botanical Garden. Whether you’re planning programs, participating in outreach, or simply enjoying the season, thank you for the work you do each day to serve our communities.

John W. Parris Interchange:

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has officially named the interchange of Interstate 26 and Highway 11 at Exit 5 in Spartanburg County “John W. Parris Interchange” in honor of John W. Parris. Parris, a lifelong advocate for agriculture and natural resources, is recognized for his decades of leadership and service to South Carolina, including his role as State Conservationist and his lasting impact on agricultural education and land stewardship.

The John W. Parris Interchange designation pays tribute to his dedication to conservation, education, and the advancement of South Carolina’s agricultural community. Signage recognizing the interchange naming will be placed at the site, ensuring future generations remember his contributions to the state.

NIFA/USDA Published Visit with Us!

Our recent NIFA/USDA visit has been featured on the official site! You can read the full post here: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDANIFA/bulletins/3f2ef4b

The Newly Revised South Carolina Master Gardener Training Manual:

Clemson Extension and the Clemson University Press celebrated the release of the newly revised South Carolina Master Gardener Training Manual with a garden party on Wednesday, October 1, at 3 p.m. at the South Carolina Botanical Garden Carriage House. 

State Fair:

It’s State Fair time! Wednesday, October 8 through Sunday October 19.  If you are interested in working an additional day to your program teams’, please reach out to Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu. 

University NDEAM Disability Awareness Month:

Virtual events beginning October 6-30^th Please see website for more details.

Adam Gorlitsky keynote, virtual events to celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Accessibility portal website launched with digital accessibility resources: https://www.clemson.edu/accessibility/digital/index.html

Salesforce:

• CUMIS Entries are now titled Extension Entries. Types of Extension Entries include Event, Professional Development, Scholarly Work, and Social Media. You must select one of these types and fill out subsequent details on the tab.
• Reports are available on the Reports tab in the Agent Reports folder. If you cannot find what you are looking for, please reach out.

If you have questions or feedback, please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu.
Please ensure that all interactions and Extension Projects are entered accurately so your contributions are fully documented and the impact of your work on our constituents is clearly reflected.

Extension Foundation:

Take advantage of your Extension Foundation membership! Founded 19 years ago by Extension Directors and Administrators, the Foundation supports Cooperative Extension professionals by providing professional development opportunities and exclusive services. Its core mission is to help U.S. Cooperative Extension increase its visibility, measurable impact, and effectiveness in addressing local issues.

Introducing Connect

Connect is a private social media platform for Cooperative Extension staff, Land-grant University professionals, community partners, and federal agencies. It enables you to share information and resources across the system and to promote Extension events to colleagues nationwide and the public. The Connect advertising calendar currently receives 150,000 views each month from the public.

Connect also hosts several specialized groups focused on key national priorities within Cooperative Extension, such as Health Equity, Workforce Development, Climate, Urban Extension, and more.

Joining Connect is open to all Land-grant University professionals—membership in the Extension Foundation is not required. You can create your free account today!

Service Milestones:
I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

Daniel Anco, Extension Peanut Specialist, 10 years 

Congratulations to Patty Scharko!

I would like to congratulate Patty Scharko for being named the 2025 “Donald E. Bailey Practitioner of the Year” Award by AASRP (American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners) at the annual meeting this past July. Patty was president in 2015 and has been an active member of the association for 42 years. She received a beautiful crystal vase with the award plaque on the base. Congratulations Patty and Thank you for all you do!

https://aasrp.org/Main/Main/Members/Dr-Don-E.-Bailey-Practitioner-of-the-Year-Award.aspx?hkey=bdb1cdb8-ce56-458e-9062-79addc8271ac

New Employees 

Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:

• Margaret Estridge: Rural Health & Nutrition Agent, Spartanburg County
• Sydney Rentz: Livestock & Forages Agent, Newberry, Greenwood and Laurens Counties
• Cindy Foley: 4-H Youth Development Agent, Sumter County

Botanical Garden Fall Plant Sale and Events:

Autumn is one of the best times to experience the SC Botanical Garden, and we’re excited to share a season full of opportunities for learning, discovery, and community. From family-friendly open houses at the Hunt Cabin, Nature Learning Center, Hanover House, and the Caboose, to special nature programs exploring the hidden lives of animals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, don’t miss our highly anticipated Fall Plant Sale—a chance to support the Garden while adding beauty and biodiversity to your own landscape.

Please see more at: https://blogs.clemson.edu/staffsenate/2025/09/09/september-news-and-events-from-the-sc-botanical-gardens/

Job Openings:

We have new openings to fill with talent. The following positions with their job ID numbers are currently posted on the Clemson Careers website. http://www.clemson.edu/careers

• Food Safety Agent for HGIC, Social Media and Marketing, Clemson, Job ID 109968
• Mobile Food Safety Program Associate, Clemson, Job ID 109966
• Consumer Food Safety and Preservation Associate, Clemson, Job ID 109962
• Fermentation and Brewing Associate, Clemson, Job ID 109963
• Food Analysis & Formation Associate, Clemson, Job ID 109964
• SC Botanical Garden Facilities Manager, Clemson, Job ID 109958
• 4-H Extension Agent, Berkeley County, Job ID 108968

IN CLOSING …

As we move further into October, we’re reminded of the strength of our Extension family and the important role each of you plays in making our programs impactful and meaningful across the state. From celebrating distinguished service and welcoming new colleagues, to embracing new tools like Salesforce and sharing our story on national platforms, your dedication continues to elevate Clemson Extension’s mission.

Whether you’re participating in the State Fair, leading educational events, or helping families and communities thrive—thank you for your time, energy, and commitment.  Wishing you a productive and inspiring October!

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Upcoming Events and Reminders:

• Please share your latest accomplishments, awards, publications and other newsworthy updates with Christi Leard ccampb3@clemson.edu to get in the Director’s Newsletter!

Dear Extension Family,

As we move through the second half of 2025, it’s clear that our shared commitment to South Carolina’s agriculture, youth development, and community engagement is stronger than ever. This newsletter highlights the many accomplishments of our Clemson Extension professionals, showcases statewide events, and provides key updates to help keep our teams informed and connected.

One important update we’d like to spotlight comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Please see the message below from W.R. “Cody” Simpson, State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency (FSA) in South Carolina. Director Simpson shares critical information regarding federal disaster relief programs, youth loan opportunities, and county committee nominations—resources and initiatives that directly impact the producers and families we serve every day. We encourage you to share this message widely with your stakeholders.

Please See Message from Cody Simpson, State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency in South Carolina Below and Share with Stakeholders.

Dear Fellow South Carolina Farmers:

I am deeply honored to have recently been appointed by President Donald J. Trump as the State Executive Director of the Farm Service Agency in South Carolina.  I consider it a great honor and privilege to support the President and USDA Secretary Brook Rollins’ mission of putting America First. I most recently served as Agriculture Advisor and Chief Executive Assistant to South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and have worked tirelessly to support and protect South Carolina family farms.

As a fifth-generation farmer, I am committed to protecting the Palmetto State’s agricultural heritage and growing its future.  I understand firsthand the barriers and challenges that family farms face daily, as well as the tremendous impact agribusiness has on our state’s economy.  I am dedicated to ensuring that our FSA team continues to provide the daily support our farmers need to keep farming.  We are also committed to Secretary Rollins’ mission to provide the much-needed supplemental disaster assistance programs to our producers.

The American Relief Act of 2025, Pub. L. No. 118-158 (the Act), signed into law on Dec. 21, 2024, provided the U.S. Department of Agriculture with more than $30 billion to deliver disaster recovery assistance to farmers and livestock producers.  The Act authorized $10 billion in economic loss assistance to producers of covered commodities based on 2024 planted and prevented planted acres. To date, USDA has delivered more than $7.8 billion to producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP)including more than $44 million to South Carolina producers. The ECAP deadline is Aug. 15, 2025. 

FSA also issued $1 billion in payments to eligible livestock producers through the Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) for losses due to qualifying drought and wildfire occurring in calendar years 2023 and 2024. FSA leveraged existing Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) data to streamline payment calculations and expedite relief, and emergency relief payments were automatically issued to producers who have an approved LFP application on file for 2023 and/or 2024. To date, nearly $4 million in ELRP benefits have been paid to livestock producers in South Carolina.

USDA provides updates every Monday so Americans can track payment totals.  For current information regarding 2023/2024 Supplemental Disaster Assistance (including the General Block Grant authority for South Carolina), please visit here.

We are currently accepting nominations for our local county committees. County committee members make important decisions about how Federal farm programs are administered locally. If you participate or cooperate in a USDA program and reside in the elective area for this year, you may be nominated for candidacy for the county committee. All nomination forms for the 2025 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by Aug. 1, 2025. Our committee members are vital to how FSA carries out disaster programs, as well as conservation, commodity and prices support programs, county office employment as well as other agricultural issues. I encourage you to consider serving. Learn more at fsa.usda.gov/coc.   

Lastly, as the next generation of farmers emerges, I want to encourage our youth to consider youth loans with FSA.  These youth loans are operating loans of up to $10,000 to eligible individuals who participate in FFA, 4-H, or another ag-related youth organization and are between ages 10 to 20 years. FSA youth loans can be used to finance income-producing, agriculture-related projects.   These loans could be a great start to owning your own farming operation in the future.

I am proud of the work performed by our team on behalf of you and your families.  We at FSA want to do everything we can to support farmers, livestock producers and foresters by delivering much needed relief to our family farms.  I look forward to seeing you on your farm soon and appreciate the sacrifice and service that you provide each day for the betterment and well-being of our state and nation.

Yours truly,

W. R. “Cody” Simpson, III

State Executive Director | South Carolina

Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Office

National Association of County Agricultural Agents Conference (NACAA)

We had great representation at our 2025 NACAA conference in Billings, Montana, held on July 30, 2025. Clemson Extension was honored with multiple awards for national and professional growth!

National award recipients

Three Extension professionals, Charlotte Maxwell, Rob Last and Stephanie Turner, received the Achievement Award, given to agents with less than 10 years of service who demonstrate excellence in Extension work.

William Hardee, Derrick Phinney and Barbara Smith were honored with the Distinguished Service Award for professionals with more than 10 years of experience.

Mallory Maher received the Search for Excellence in Environmental Quality, Forestry and Natural Resources Award for her work on the Backyard Wildlife Habitat Program. Susan Lunt won the Communication Award in the Bound Book/eBook category for co-authoring a septic system user guide.

Widespread recognition and leadership

Clemson Extension professionals were also honored as national finalists, Southern Region winners and state-level honorees included:

• National Finalists: Sarah Scott (Applied Research Posters) and Samantha Porzelt (Computer Generated Presentation with Script)
• Southern Region Winners: Stephanie Turner (Personal Column), Charlotte Maxwell (Published Photo), Jaime Pohlman (Website/Online Content)
• State Winners: 13 agents were recognized in categories including feature writing, audio recordings, educational videos and agriculture awareness

Maxwell and Zachary Snipes were selected to deliver oral presentations during concurrent sessions—a competitive honor reflecting peer recognition and content quality.

Clemson’s national leadership within NACAA includes Brian Beer, who chairs the Professional Improvement Council overseeing professional development committees, and Sarah Scott, newly appointed Southern Region Vice Chair of the Communications Committee after serving as SCACAA Communications Chair since 2019.

In addition to national and regional recognition, the following Clemson Extension professionals earned state-level honors for excellence in programming, outreach and communication:

• Nicole Correa – Search for Excellence in Sustainable Agriculture Recognition Program
• Eric Eliassen – Event Promotional Package
• Matthew Fischer – Newsletter
• Brad Fowler – Audio Recording, Feature Story, Search for Excellence in Consumer or Commercial Horticulture
• Laura Hair – Agriculture Awareness and Appreciation Award, Search for Excellence in 4-H Programming
• Carmen Ketron – Educational Video Recordings
• Steven O’Shields – Learning Module/Notebook
• Barbara H. Smith – Fact Sheet
• Zachary Snipes – Publication

SCFFA Convention

This event was held in Greenville, SC from June 17–19, 2025, with a total registration of 1,200 students and advisors. This figure does not include judges, exhibitors, or guests in attendance. A total of $37,000 in scholarships and awards was presented during the State Convention. The exhibit hall featured 35 exhibitor spaces, occupied by 42 exhibitors.

National FFA Scholarships

SC FFA members received $30,000 in scholarships from the National FFA Scholarship Program

• Katelyn Foose (Pickens Co CTC FFA) received $1,000 from LaCrosse Footwear Scholarship
• Aaliyah Montgomery (SC Gov. School for Ag FFA) received $1,500 from Bayer-Grow Ag Leaders Scholarship
• Brooklyn Hill (Conway FFA) received $2,500 from Edgar & Ann Duskin Southern Crop Scholarship
• Allison Gard (Cane Bay FFA) received $5,000 from George M. Hellberg Memorial Scholarship
• Skylar McMahan (Central FFA) received $5,000 from FFA Future Leaders Scholarship by TSC-Trade
• Sara Dixon (Cheraw FFA) received $5,000 from the FFA Future Leaders Scholarship by TSC-Trade
• Amberlyn Christenbury (Crescent FFA) received $10,000 from the Domino’s Scholarship

4-H Congress

Last month, South Carolina 4-H hosted their annual State 4-H Congress. The event, themed “Beyond Our Time”, welcomed 74 youth representing 22 South Carolina counties, 17 county 4-H agents, four 4-H volunteers and various other staff, interns, speakers, and workshop leaders. 

With the event held on campus each year, youth get the opportunity to experience college life for the week: dorm life, dining hall meals, and classroom workshops. Learning opportunities included workshops from each of the five 4-H program areas: agriculture and animals, natural resources, civic engagement, STEM, and healthy living as well as fun activities like line dancing and trivia. There were hands-on lessons related to appropriate use of Chat GPT, animal scat identification, diet and workout plans throughout the decades, and agriculture bingo. The week also included tours of the CHIP (Clemson Headgear Impact Performance) lab and the ag mech department. In addition to workshops and tours, the group of youth and adults participated in a landscaping service project at Clemson Downs, donating over 100 hours of service to the community.  

On the final evening, outstanding youth were recognized at the annual 4-H Awards Banquet. Scholarships for trips were awarded to State 4-H Award, National 4-H Conference, and Presidential 4-H Award winners. This year’s Presidential Tray award winners were Ms. Eve Martell of York County, Ms. Le’Mariya McCree of Chester County, Ms. Savannah Reese of Richland County, and Mr. Lawson Weilnau of Bamberg County.  

The week closed with the installation of the new State 4-H Teen Council members elected by our 4-H participants. This new group of youth leaders will have a hand in planning upcoming state events such as 4-H Day at the Sate Fair, Legislative Day, Jr. Weekend, and next year’s State Congress.  

As one youth shared, “Congress is a great way for youth to share their voice, practice their right to vote and have a say in their leadership, practice essential life skills, and connect with peers across the state who share a similar passion of making the best better.”

State Fair:

This year the state fair runs from Wednesday, October 8 through Sunday October 19.  If you are interested in working an additional day to your program teams’, please reach out to Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu.

Salesforce:

Please be advised of the following updates:

• The CUMIS Projects tab is now titled Extension Projects tab.
• Extension projects have been updated in accordance with each Program Team Directors request. This may change where you report data for this fiscal year. Please consult the project names and descriptions. If you have questions, please refer to your Program Team Director.
• CUMIS Entries are now titled Extension Entries. Types of Extension Entries include Professional Development, Scholarly Work, and Social Media. You must select one of these types and fill out subsequent details on the tab.
• Reports are available on the Reports tab in the Agent Reports folder. If you cannot find what you are looking for, please reach out.

If you have questions or feedback, please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu.

Brand Awareness Videos

The Clemson Extension Service has been busy creating videos to boost brand awareness! There are now five NEW videos serving different purposes:

1. A longer, high-altitude view of the breadth of work conducted by CES across the state. View here!
2. INTERNSHIPS – A video to attract CAFLS students to intern with Extension through the Michelin Career Center UPIC-CES partnership. View here!
3. COLLABORATE – A video to showcase opportunities and ways to collaborate with CES, from community organizations to our colleges on campus. View here!
4. DONATE – A call for support by donating to Fiercely Forward>CES or at your local county office. View here!
5. RECRUIT – A video tool to attract new talent for our CES workforce. View here!

Service Milestones:

I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

Ashley Burns, 4-H Youth Development Program Team Director, 10 years

Job Openings

We have new openings to fill with talent. The following positions with their job ID numbers are currently posted on the Clemson Careers website. http://www.clemson.edu/careers

• 4-H Agent – Allendale, Bamberg, and Barnwell, Bamberg Extension Office, 109835
• 4-H Youth Development Agent – Sumter, SC, Sumter Extension Office, 109589
• 4-H Extension Agent – Berkeley County, Berkeley County Extension Office, 108968

IN CLOSING …

As always, thank you for the impactful work you continue to do across South Carolina. From supporting farmers and ranchers through critical USDA programs to celebrating national recognition for our Clemson Extension professionals, this newsletter reflects the strength and dedication of our Extension family.

Whether you’re mentoring the next generation through 4-H and FFA, advancing sustainability in agriculture, or building community partnerships, your work matters—and it’s being noticed. Let’s continue to build on this momentum as we head into the fall season.

If you have updates, accomplishments, or events you’d like featured in a future newsletter, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Stay safe, stay connected, and thank you for everything you do to make South Carolina stronger—one community at a time.

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Dear Extension Family,

As we approach the July 4th holiday and celebrate the independence of our nation, I’m reminded of the values that unite us—service, community, and a shared commitment to making a difference. These same values are at the heart of Clemson Cooperative Extension, and each of you embodies them through the work you do every day across South Carolina.

Summer is a busy time for our programs, and I continue to be inspired by your energy, creativity, and deep connection to the people and places we serve. Whether you’re supporting youth at 4-H camps, helping farmers navigate the growing season, or delivering critical health and nutrition education, your efforts are creating lasting impact.

This month’s newsletter highlights just a few of the many ways Extension continues to thrive. You’ll read about the inspiring growth and impact of the 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program, which now reaches hundreds of youth and adults across South Carolina, and you’ll see the outstanding achievements of our Health Extension for Diabetes team, whose dedication is improving lives and promoting healthier communities across the state. These successes are no accident—they are the direct result of your hard work, strong partnerships, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

4-H Pinckney Leadership program

Clemson University’s 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program, founded in 2016 to develop leadership and civic engagement in middle and high school students, now serves over 750 youth and adults across 37 South Carolina counties. Named in honor of the late Senator Clementa Pinckney, a passionate 4-H advocate, the program continues his legacy of leadership and service.

At this year’s Leadership Roundup, held in multiple cities including Columbia, Florence, and Charleston, Clemson hosted National 4-H Council leaders Jill Bramble and Natalie Godwin. The events include leadership workshops, team-building, career readiness sessions, and community service projects.

The summer program also features:

• A July camp for rising 7th and 8th graders at Camp Long in Aiken
• June and July conferences for rising 10th and 11th graders on Clemson’s campus

Charleston’s Roundup has seen strong community support, largely due to a partnership with Low Country Youth Services, which helped launch and promote the event locally.

Director Rushawnda Olden credits the program’s success to statewide partnerships and a shared commitment to preparing youth for both current challenges and future careers.

For more information, contact Olden at 864-986-1195

Congratulations to Health Extension for Diabetes Team!

As facilitators of the HED program, they play a vital role in equipping participants with essential health information, supporting South Carolinians living with diabetes. The program’s reach now extends to nearly every county in the state, helping to improve health outcomes across our communities.

Health Extension for Diabetes – Facilitator Recognition 

• Wellness Warrior Award – Marguerite Peterseim
  This award is given to the HED extension facilitator whose participants experienced the greatest average weight loss during the HED program. 
• All In Award – Jevencia Hill
  This award is given to the extension facilitator who has consistently gone above and beyond for their participants and in their collaboration with others.
• Rookie of the Year Award – Kathryn Flynn
  This award is given to the extension facilitator who has demonstrated excellence in swiftly adapting to their new role. 
• Muscle Momentum Award – Hannah Shifflette
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants demonstrated the greatest increase in days per week engaging in muscle strengthening physical activity.  
• Commitment to Completion – Justin Foxworth
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants demonstrated the greatest adjusted graduation rate. 
• Move Your Body – Emily Sweatt 
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants demonstrated the greatest average increase in days per week engaging in physical activity. 
• Informed & Empowered – Elizabeth Parker
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants demonstrated the greatest average increase in diabetes knowledge. 
• Voices For All Award – Camden Bryan
  This award is given to the extension facilitator who has demonstrated dedication to delivering the program to underserved populations thereby increasing health equity in SC.
• Sip Smart Award – Roxane Cummings
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants experienced the greatest average reduction in days per week consuming sugar sweetened beverages. 
• Diabetes Confidence Builder – Julianna Lyle 
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants experienced the greatest average increase in diabetes self-efficacy. 
• Produce Powerhouse Award – Bailee Floyd
  This award is given to the extension facilitator whose participants experienced the greatest increase in days per week consuming the recommended 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. 

Salesforce

We wanted to thank you for taking the time to get programs and interactions entered into Salesforce. We know it can be a detailed and time-consuming task at times, and we really appreciate your thoroughness and attention to detail.

Your work helps ensure we have accurate, up-to-date records, which makes a big difference for our team’s ability to stay aligned and serve our partners effectively. Thanks again for your support and commitment—it’s truly valued. Please continue to share your thoughtful feedback—it helps our team make meaningful improvements.

State Fair

This year the state fair dates are October 8^th through October 19^th.  Becca and Lance will provide more information soon.

SC Botanical Garden

We are pleased to announce that CU Cooperative Extension Service may have access to the following SC Botanical Garden facilities at no charge to deliver Extension programming:

• The Carriage House and Lower Lawn any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

• The Hayden Conference Center lecture room, conference room, and kitchen any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

Bookings for these facilities are required at least 30 days in advance. A no-fee contract must be signed and submitted to complete the reservation. All SCBG rental policies apply to these reservations except for deposit, payment and TULIP insurance. Extension programs may be limited to 3 reservations monthly depending on staffing and event capacity. Please email the garden at scbgrentals@clemson.edu or call 864-656-2536 to discuss details and receive copies of related policies and contracts. For any other potential research and education use that doesn’t require indoor space, please use the garden research and classroom use request form (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/research/). Photography/recording sessions should be notified via our Photo/Videographer Registry (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/visit/#tour). Once registered, to schedule a photography or videography shoot please contact please call 864-656-2536 or email scbg@clemson.edu.

IN CLOSING …

As you enjoy time with family and friends this Independence Day, I hope you’ll also take a moment to reflect on the freedom we have to do meaningful work in service of others. That is truly something worth celebrating.

Thank you for continuing to lead with purpose, pride, and heart.

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families—and thank you for all that you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Dear Extension Family,

As we move into the heart of summer, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your continued commitment to the mission of Clemson Cooperative Extension. Your unwavering dedication to the people of South Carolina is making a real difference, and I see it every single day—in your programs, your partnerships, and most importantly, your impact.

We have faced challenges together over the past year, and I remain proud of how this organization continues to rise to meet them. Whether through smart efficiencies, strong teamwork, or good old-fashioned grit, Extension has kept moving forward. I want to again reassure you: your leadership team wakes up every morning focused on one thing—getting you the tools and support you need to serve your communities and do your job well.

This newsletter includes a recap of the Super Saturday CDE events held in April—what a fantastic turnout and a true showcase of our youth development efforts. I’m also honored to recognize this year’s Lever Hall of Fame Inductees. Each individual highlighted has demonstrated a lifetime of dedication to Extension, agriculture, and education. Their legacies continue to inspire the work we do today.

In addition, we celebrate major achievements from our colleagues—Janet Steele, Kirby Player, and the Rural Health Program Team, among others. These recognitions are a testament to the caliber of talent and passion we have across our organization.

I’ll close by echoing a message I’ve shared before: it’s more important than ever that we document the impact of our work. Data tells our story—it allows our partners and supporters to see the return on investment in Extension. I need your help in capturing and sharing that story. Let’s make sure your hard work gets the recognition it deserves.

As my grandmother used to say, “You can’t control the season, but you can always plant with hope.” Thank you for continuing to serve with excellence, resilience, and purpose.

Super Saturday CDE Recap – April 26, 2025

We are excited to share the outstanding participation numbers from our “Super Saturday” Career Development Events (CDEs), held on the campus of Clemson University on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This action-packed day showcased the talents and dedication of FFA members from across the region.

Event Participation Highlights:

• Agricultural Mechanics: 20 teams | 79 participants
• Agricultural Mechanics – Middle School Division: 5 teams | 20 participants
• Meats Evaluation: 12 teams | 46 participants
• Poultry: 18 teams | 70 participants

Additionally, please find attached eight photos highlighting moments from the Poultry CDE. These materials are shared in response to Dr. Hall’s recent email. If additional details are needed, feel free to reach out.

Thank you to all who contributed to making this event a success!

– Troy

2025 Lever Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony – May 30^th and 31^st

Congratulations to our Inductees https://www.clemson.edu/extension/lever-hof/inductees/class-25.html

Clemson Extension agents inducted into Lever Hall of Fame

Thomasina Tyler

Mrs. Thomasina C. Tyler’s 30-year career with Clemson Cooperative Extension stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication to both youth and community development. As the first full-time African American County Extension Agent in Jasper County in 1971, she pioneered programs like Project LEARN, which enhanced self-esteem, academic skills, and cultural awareness among at-risk youth. Her leadership extended to securing grants for afterschool programs and mentoring hundreds of 4-H youth, many of whom went on to achieve state and national recognition. Mrs. Tyler’s impact reached beyond Extension as she became an influential figure in local organizations, from serving on church committees to supporting youth through the NAACP and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

Charles Davis

Mr. Charles W. Davis, Jr. has dedicated over 40 years to South Carolina agriculture, beginning with SC State University’s 1890 Extension and later joining Clemson Extension in Calhoun County. He earned a degree in Agricultural Mechanization and Business from Clemson University and has played a key role in advancing conservation tillage and developing South Carolina’s peanut industry. He also helped create a regional Certified Crop Advisor Training Program to support professional development in agriculture. Beyond his Extension work, Charles has served in leadership roles with Rotary, his church, and other community.

Howard Hiller

Mr. Howard Hiller served South Carolina Extension for over four decades, making major contributions in agriculture, 4-H youth development, natural resources, and leadership. He worked in Allendale, Oconee, and Pickens Counties, serving as both agent and County Extension Director, supporting commercial growers, forest landowners, beekeepers, and 4-H youth. Howard played a vital role in programs like the Federal Excess Property Program, Master Naturalist Program, and forestry and beekeeping associations, while securing funding for innovative efforts like poultry chains and leadership training. Known for his dedication, he was also a decorated Army veteran, community leader, and respected mentor to colleagues and landowners.

Russell Duncan

Mr. Russell Duncan served Clemson University Cooperative Extension from 1983 to 2010, working in Clarendon, Marion, Williamsburg, and Florence Counties. He developed key programs like the Central Farm Management Association and introduced precision agriculture to local farmers, significantly improving crop efficiency and sustainability. Russell also pioneered the Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) workshop, still held today. His leadership within the SC Association of County Agricultural Agents and the National Association of County Agricultural Agents earned him numerous awards, including the National Distinguished Service Award. Russell’s work continues through his business, CRD Agronomics, where he assists farmers with soil sampling and crop recommendations.

State Fair:

This year the state fair dates are October 8^th through October 19^th.  Becca and Lance will provide more information soon.

Salesforce:

Salesforce is a customer relationship management software that also serves as Clemson Extension’s reporting system.

Helpful Tips:

• Please make sure you utilize the Program Events tab to update records related to programming.  On the Program Event you may add assisting Team Members in addition to the Project Number
• To view existing reports please utilize the Reports Tab and the Agent Reports folder.  In this folder you will find a number of reports you may find helpful. You may clone these reports and save a copy in your Private Folder to make edits and learn how the reports work. Please feel free to contact the Advisory team should you need assistance or would like to request a report.

SC Botanical Garden

We are pleased to announce that CU Cooperative Extension Service may have access to the following SC Botanical Garden facilities at no charge to deliver Extension programming:

• The Carriage House and Lower Lawn any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

• The Hayden Conference Center lecture room, conference room, and kitchen any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

Bookings for these facilities are required at least 30 days in advance. A no-fee contract must be signed and submitted to complete the reservation. All SCBG rental policies apply to these reservations except for deposit, payment and TULIP insurance. Extension programs may be limited to 3 reservations monthly depending on staffing and event capacity. Please email the garden at scbgrentals@clemson.edu or call 864-656-2536 to discuss details and receive copies of related policies and contracts. For any other potential research and education use that doesn’t require indoor space, please use the garden research and classroom use request form (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/research/). Photography/recording sessions should be notified via our Photo/Videographer Registry (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/visit/#tour). Once registered, to schedule a photography or videography shoot please contact please call 864-656-2536 or email scbg@clemson.edu.

Service Milestones:
I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

Steven Jeffers, Professor of Plant Pathology & Extension Specialist, Ornamental Crops & Trees
Horticulture Program Team, Plant and Environmental Sciences Department, 30 Years.

Congratulations to Janet Steele!

Janet is receiving the Forest Landowners Association’s (FLA) 2025 Extension Forester of the Year Award! This award aims to recognize outstanding landowners and forestry professionals contributing to the advancement of the private forest landowner community.

Congratulations to Kirby Player!

I would like to congratulate Kirby Player lecturer and coordinator of Clemson’s Palmetto Leadership Program for the Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, received South Carolina’s Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor awarded by the State of South Carolina. 

Congratulations to the Rural Health Program Team!

Clemson University’s Health Extension for Diabetes program received the 2025 Priester Culture of Health Award, a prestigious national recognition of its measurable contributions to health and well-being across the state.    

New Employees 

Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:

• Shelby Hammond: Agronomic Crops Agent, Kershaw, Chesterfield, and Lancaster Counties
• Abi Taylor: Horticulture Agent, York County
• Jessica Hardiman: Food Safety and Nutrition Agent, Charleston, Berkley, and Dorchester Counties

IN CLOSING …

As we turn the page to summer, I encourage each of you to take a moment to reflect on the impact you’ve made—and to recharge when you can. The work you do matters deeply to South Carolina’s communities, and your efforts do not go unnoticed. We’ve accomplished much together, and I’m confident the season ahead will bring even more opportunities to grow, serve, and lead.

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Dear Extension Family,

I want to thank you for your steadfast resolve to help Clemson University address the expenditure pause. We in Extension have done what it takes to address the request and at the same time continue providing our stakeholders with outstanding educational programs, one on one assistance and in many cases being creative and innovative with new programmatic areas. I pledge to you that your leadership wake up each morning with one mission in mind- to get our administrative assistances, county agents, extension associates and specialists what you need to do your job. 

Dean Holt asked me to prepare a list of efficiencies that Extension could implement to share with the board of trustees. I was proud when I asked Dr. Burns, Mr. Landford, and Mrs. Legette to help me compile this report- that you guys have already implemented these needed efficiencies. This will be a report that I will gladly present to Dean Holt and say we have already done this. We continue to take what we have and find innovative ways to improve our efforts to serve the state of South Carolina. 

However, we need to continue to do GREAT work for the citizens of South Carolina and document the impact of our work. I cannot express enough the importance of having data the gives our leadership the tools we need to help us tell the story of Extension. In these times of uncertainty, we need the impact data to share your good works to our county administration, state and national representatives as well as our support organizations. I need your help to make sure you get the credit you deserve by providing us with impact data. 

As my grandmother use to tell us when my father had a bad crop year or a low cattle market, “You guys need to focus on the positives: you have a house, food to eat, good health and the blessing of God to start over again with a new season. You will always have challenges in life, it is how you deal with those challenges that will make or break you”. 

2025 Clemson Spring Dairy Show and Educational Events

The annual Clemson Spring Dairy Show and Educational Contests were held at the T. Ed Garrison Arena, March 21-23, 2025.

On Friday, March 21, dairy youth enthusiasts competed in the Clemson Spring Dairy Show “Let’s Talk Dairy” Speech Contest. 15 youth provided individual two-minute speeches sharing the many positive attributes of dairy in their diet. This special contest was sponsored by the Dairy Alliance. 

The South Carolina State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest was also held on March 21 where 118 4-H and FFA members from all over the state came to compete in ranking six different classes of Dairy Cattle and then provided an explanation of why they placed designated classes to a dairy industry expert through oral reasons.  Youth competed for outstanding awards sponsored by the South Carolina Farmer Agribusiness Association.  

Clemson Extension and the Spring Dairy Show Committee were proud to host the 2025 Clemson Spring Dairy Show; the largest dairy cattle show in the Southeast-March 21-23.  Over 425 head of dairy cattle and 232 exhibitors entered from ten different states (MD, VA, NC, SC, GA, FL, TN, MS, AL, PA).  This annual show originated in 2018 and is planned and coordinated by Clemson Extension and the Spring Dairy Show Committee.

Such a tremendous event wouldn’t be possible without the outstanding support of the Spring Dairy Show Committee, Clemson Extension, South Carolina 4-H and FFA staff and countless volunteers.  A special thank you to Marie Bolt-Garrison Arena and Expo Center Director and the incredible staff of the Garrison Arena.  

2025 State Livestock Judging Contest

The 2025 South Carolina State 4-H and FFA State Livestock Judging Contest was held at the T. Ed Garrison Arena on Friday, April 4. 84 South Carolina 4-H and FFA members evaluated six classes and shared their opinions and knowledge of the classes evaluated of the provided classes. We greatly appreciate the generous awards provided by the Clarence W.  Senn Memorial Endowment. 

College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences Honors Students, Faculty and Staff During Annual Awards

On April 10, the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences held its Annual Awards Ceremony to recognize outstanding students, faculty, and staff. The event celebrated excellence in research, teaching, leadership, and service, highlighting the remarkable dedication and achievements within the CAFLS community.

Outstanding Junior Faculty in Extension – Michael Plumblee, Assistant Professor, Plant and Environmental Sciences

Outstanding Junior Extension Agent – Carmen Ketron, Urban Horticulture Agent, Cooperative Extension

Outstanding Senior Extension Agent – Amber Starnes, Senior Agent Livestock and Forages, Cooperative Extension

Outstanding Professional Staff – Amy Dabbs, School and Community Gardening Statewide Program Coordinator, Cooperative Extension

South Carolina 4-H and FFA Dairy Heifer Project

The South Carolina 4-H and FFA Dairy Heifer Project is the longest-running program of its kind in the nation—and it shows no signs of slowing down. The 50th Annual Bred Heifer Sale, held on April 22, 2025, was not only a milestone event, but also marked a record-breaking year with a $2,900 sale average—the highest in the project’s history. To date, nearly 1,900 heifers have been sold through the project. These animals have been purchased by individuals across South Carolina and neighboring states, and in recent years, heifers have found homes as far away as Michigan and Idaho.

Through this unique project, youth learn valuable life skills such as responsibility, hard work, sportsmanship, and integrity. Participants also gain hands-on knowledge in agriculture, animal husbandry, and the dairy industry. Along the way, they build confidence and form friendships that often last a lifetime.

Generous dairy producers from South Carolina and surrounding states supply high-quality heifers, and over a period of 20 months, youth raise, care for, and show their very own dairy heifer. Since many participants do not come from a dairy background or have the facilities to milk a cow, the Bred Heifer Sale serves as the culmination of their project experience.

The project began in 1973 at the request of the South Carolina Purebred Dairy Cattle Association. It was then that Dr. Fred E. Pardue developed and launched what would become one of the most impactful 4-H initiatives in the state—and possibly the nation. Through careful planning and collaboration with various breed associations, Dr. Pardue established a program that achieved its goal: to increase participation in the 4-H Dairy Program and expand youth and family understanding of the dairy industry.

Thanks to the strong foundation laid by Dr. Pardue, the program continues to thrive. Its success is a testament to the dedication of the South Carolina dairy industry, former project members and parents, and countless 4-H families and alumni who have supported it over the years—and who continue to do so today.

Governor signing the bill for 4-H/FFA

Last week, South Carolina FFA and the South Carolina Association of Agricultural Educators held their annual Plant Presentation Day on the steps of the State House.

As part of the event, Governor McMaster signed H. 3247 into law. Sponsored by Representative Patrick

Haddon (R-Greenville), the new legislation permits school districts to excuse student absences for participation in work-based learning experiences, including programs like Future Farmers of America and 4-H.

EELI 2025 Graduation: EELI Cohort 4

During the nine-month sessions, the cohort spent their professional development time learning about various basic leadership topics, participating in group discussions, engaging with inspirational speakers, class presentations/projects, touring and learning about both land grant universities’ history, interactive team building activities, and shadowing a selected leader.

We are proud of all graduates, and we offer special congratulations to our Clemson Extension and CAFLS graduates:

• Nicole Correa, Livestock/Forages Agent – Orangeburg
• Dr. Bhupinder Farmaha, Associate Professor – Edisto REC
• Samantha Houston, Food Systems/Safety Agent – Lexington
• Kesha Horton, Administrative Assistant – Lancaster

Graduates from SC State 1890 Research and Extension include:

• Latosia Gibson, 4-H Youth Development Agent 
• Kinda McInnis, 4-H Youth Development Agent 
• Ronnie Rhodes, Regional Director 
• Shena Scott, Administrative Coordinator 
• Kaliyah Woods, 4-H Youth Development Agent 

With commitment to excellence, dedication to service, and vision for greatness, these aspiring leaders will continue to move Cooperative Extension at Clemson and SC State University to greater heights. 

The collaboration, networking, and partnership between our two land grant universities continue to be impactful!   www.clemson.edu/extension/leadership

Salesforce:

Salesforce is a customer relationship management software that also serves as Clemson Extension’s reporting system.

We will host office ours on Monday May 19th from 11:00-12:00 and 2:00-3:00 (calendar invite coming this week) where you can ask questions and we will demonstrate how to pull reports specific to your program. 

Helpful Tips:

• Salesforce link: The salesforce link is https://clemson.my.salesforce.com. Please use your Clemson credentials to access. If you receive a single sign-on error when logging in, please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu
• Eventbrite syncs with Salesforce once a day. Each team has their own accounts and policies for Eventbrite, please contact your PTD should you have questions.  
• You may add a Team Member to an Interaction or a Program Event. To do so, create the Interaction or edit the Program Event, save and then view the Interaction or Program Event record. At the bottom on the righthand side, there is a Team Members box where you can add assisting agents.   
• Check out the “Agent Reports” folder on the Reports tab. In this folder you will find a number of reports you may find helpful. You may clone these reports and save a copy under your name to make edits and learn how the reports work. Please feel free to contact the Advisory team should you need assistance or would like to request a report.

SC Botanical Garden

We are pleased to announce that CU Cooperative Extension Service may have access to the following SC Botanical Garden facilities at no charge to deliver Extension programming:

• The Carriage House and Lower Lawn any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

• The Hayden Conference Center lecture room, conference room, and kitchen any time during regular business hours Monday-Thursday

Bookings for these facilities are required at least 30 days in advance. A no-fee contract must be signed and submitted to complete the reservation. All SCBG rental policies apply to these reservations except for deposit, payment and TULIP insurance. Extension programs may be limited to 3 reservations monthly depending on staffing and event capacity. Please email the garden at scbgrentals@clemson.edu or call 864-656-2536 to discuss details and receive copies of related policies and contracts. For any other potential research and education use that doesn’t require indoor space, please use the garden research and classroom use request form (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/research/). Photography/recording sessions should be notified via our Photo/Videographer Registry (https://www.clemson.edu/scbg/visit/#tour). Once registered, to schedule a photography or videography shoot please contact please call 864-656-2536 or email scbg@clemson.edu.

Congratulations to Mallory Dailey Maher!

Each year, the Clemson Young Alumni Council honors ten exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions in areas such as business, leadership, community service, education, and philanthropy. This recognition is reserved for those who embody Clemson University’s core values of honesty, integrity, and respect. 

 Mallory Dailey Maher ’12, M’15, M’21 Named 2024 Roaring10 Honoree

Mallory Maher, a three-time Clemson graduate, has been recognized with the 2024 Roaring10 Award for her leadership in environmental education and community service. She holds degrees in wildlife and fisheries biology and agricultural education. She currently serves as a Natural Resources Extension Associate and coordinator of Clemson’s statewide Master Naturalist Program.

Previously a 4-H agent in Oconee County, Maher has received multiple national awards for her work in youth development and agricultural education. Her volunteer efforts include pollinator garden installations, bluebird box projects, stream assessments, and environmental outreach in local schools. She chairs South Carolina’s Wildlife Habitat Education Program and helps lead national youth wildlife competitions.

An active Clemson alumna, Maher serves on the Women’s Alumni Council and mentors students pursuing careers in agriculture and natural resources.

https://alumni.clemson.edu/mallory-dailey-maher-12-m15-m21/

Service Milestones:
I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

• Scott Mickey, Senior Extension Associate – Asst. Agribusiness Team Director
  Agribusiness Program Team, 30 years

New Employees 

Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:

• Mackenzie Comer: 4-H Agent, Charleston County

IN CLOSING …

As we move forward into the spring season, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the commitment, passion, and resilience each of you brings to the work we do at Clemson Extension. Your dedication ensures we continue to serve the people of South Carolina with excellence, even in the face of challenges. Remember, as my grandmother used to say, it’s not the challenges we face, but how we handle them that defines our success.

Together, we’ve accomplished much already, from innovative program delivery to impactful community engagement, but there is always more to be done. Let’s keep pushing forward with the same drive and focus that has made us a trusted resource for the citizens of our state. Your efforts make a difference, and I am proud to work alongside such an outstanding team.

Thank you for all you do!

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Upcoming Events and Reminders

• May 21st: SCACAA & SCAE4-HA Annual Joint Meeting and PIC in Batesburg-Leesville, SC
• May 30th – 31st: Lever Hall of Fame Ceremony – T. Ed. Garrison Arena Cattle Complex and Educational Center

Dear Extension Family,

I want to take a moment to follow up on the information shared in our January letter regarding the university’s expenditure pause and the ongoing planning efforts around the new financial model. As we closely monitor the situation. The CAFLS Leadership Team have met last two days to develop spending guidelines that will help you plan for future expenditures, travel, and hopefully answer a few of your questions. We are meeting on a daily basis and I will keep you updated. Our careful attention to spending, along with the ongoing efforts of the legislative affairs team, ensures that we are well-prepared for any changes.

As always, the most important thing we can do is stay focused on our mission: providing exceptional educational programs and supporting our stakeholders with valuable research and expertise. By doing so, we will not only weather this economic period but continue to grow and thrive.

On that note, I’m excited to share some of the great things happening in Extension! February and March have been incredibly busy months for our programs. One standout event was the 11th Annual South Carolina 4-H Engineering Challenge, held in February at the SC State Fairgrounds. This year’s event was the largest yet, with over 400 youth participants competing in a variety of hands-on STEM challenges. From rocketry and robotics to bridge-building and the Visual Arts Challenge, our youth demonstrated impressive skills and creativity. The event also included a STEM Expo with over 20 exhibitors, showcasing the diverse opportunities available for youth in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Additionally, South Carolina 4-H Legislative Day in March was a huge success, with over 500 participants coming together to engage with state legislators. This event serves as a powerful introduction to civic engagement and highlights the impact of our 4-H programs in communities across the state. We were also excited to hear that legislation will soon allow school absences for 4-H and FFA events to be excused, providing even more opportunities for youth to participate in these valuable programs.

This past weekend, we successfully hosted the 2025 South Carolina 4-H Horse Program Hippology and Horse Judging Contest, as well as Forest Fest. As we move forward through the spring, there are several other exciting events to look forward to and participate in. These are great opportunities to get involved and share in the success of our Extension programs.

I am grateful for all the hard work and dedication you continue to show, and I want to assure you that we are all committed to keeping our financial footing steady as we move forward together. I will keep you informed of any significant updates as they arise.

Thank you for your continued service and leadership in your communities.

Engineering Challenge

On Tuesday, February 11, the South Carolina 4-H Youth Development STEM Committee held their annual Engineering Challenge: their 11^th and largest event yet. The event started in 2012 but skipped 2020 and 2021 due to COVID. Over the years, it has been held in various locations around the state but moved to the SC State Fairgrounds in 2019.  

This year, 402 individual youth ages 5 through 18 from 21 South Carolina counties registered to participate in at least one of the seven competitive challenges offered. Several hands-on challenges are available for youth ages 9 through 18 years old, and youth ages 5 through 8 are invited to participate in the Visual Arts Challenge. Some events are open to individuals and others are open to teams of two to four. In all, youth can compete in Visual Arts, Agriscience Poster, Coding, Rocketry, Robotics, Bridge-Building, or a Mystery Challenge. 

Sometimes, science and art meet in the middle. Through the Visual Arts Challenge, we hope to draw interest to STEAM fields using visually captivating artwork. This year’s theme was Agriculture. Youth submitted over 70 pieces of artwork in the categories of illustration, photography, and AI-generated artwork. 

The Agriscience Poster Challenge is modeled after an FFA event with the hopes of recruiting older participants. Each individual or pair designs and presents a scientific poster to illustrate experimental emersion, and their use of scientific principles and/or emerging technologies related to agriculture, food, or natural resources systems. There were five exceptional entries this year, the second year for this challenge. 

For the Coding Challenge, 16 youth designed a game or animation using Scratch computer coding that highlights how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used in agriculture. Participants created their projects prior to the event and gave a brief presentation on the day of the event, explaining how AI is used in their game or digital animation. 

Youth participating in the Rocketry Challenge built and brought a rocket to launch with air power. The launch objective is to travel the greatest distance with an accuracy of +/- 5 degrees left or right of center. For the first time in recent Engineering Challenge history, our 11 teams launched their rockets indoors due to rain. In addition to their launch, youth made a presentation describing their design processes, materials, and challenges. 

The LEGO Robotics Challenge showcased work from 11 teams. Robots arrived preassembled but were programmed on site to meet the Challenge specifics throughout the competition. Teams were judged on robot design and successful programming, teamwork, and score at the competition table.

The Bridge Building Challenge proves to be a favorite each year. This year, a record 50 teams of two to four youth designed, constructed, and tested a truss-style bridge past the breaking point to determine which bridge could support the greatest weight. Bridges were constructed with a maximum 70 craft sticks and five, four-inch glue sticks in a time of 40 minutes. 

The Mystery Challenge is also a popular event. It requires no prior preparation but allows teams of two to four youth to work collaboratively and under pressure to accomplish the design engineering challenge. This year, 50 teams built air power vehicles and tested them to see which vehicle would travel the farthest distance. 

In addition to STEM-based challenges for youth competition, there was an interactive STEM Expo free to any participant or family member. Exhibitors offered hands-on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) related activities and tabletop displays for visitors to browse between challenges. This is a great opportunity for exhibitors to advertise their opportunities for youth. This year, there were twenty STEM Expo exhibitors including booths from SCDNR, CAFLS, NOAA, Midlands Tech, SCORS, USC, and more. 

An event of this size wouldn’t be possible without help from agents from various program teams and 4-H volunteers from around the state. Over 40 volunteers helped with this year’s event, offering assistance as challenge facilitators, challenge judges, checking schools in at registration, distributing awards, and even serving lunch. In addition, special thanks to Engineering Challenge sponsors the C.H. and Anna E. Lutz Foundation from Chester, Google, the SC State Fair, and Mr. Eric Eliassen. All sponsorships go directly towards running the event.

South Carolina 4-H Youth Development works to prepare youth to become beyond ready for life after 4-H by providing opportunities to spark their interests and environments for them to thrive with a goal is to develop healthy, productive, and engaged adults. Youth that participate in this event report increased confidence and knowledge in science skill. The 4-H Engineering Challenge is coordinated by Clemson Cooperative Extension through 4-H Youth Development. 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the nation and is implemented by land-grant universities across the county, dating back to 1902.  Here in South Carolina, 4-H is offered through Clemson University and South Carolina State University. Clemson has Extension offices in all 46 counties across the state. If you are not already involved in 4-H in your home county, we highly recommend you reach out to your local Extension Office after this event and see what programs are available in your area!   

4-H Legislative Day

South Carolina 4-H Legislative Day provides 4-H members a unique opportunity to promote the South Carolina 4-H program to elected state officials. Participants share their personal 4-H stories with legislators and discuss the benefits of their local Clemson University Cooperative Extension programming in their home communities. County 4-H delegations make appointments with their representatives, senators, or legislative aides to discuss how the South Carolina 4-H program has impacted their lives. Many counties take time to visit the SC Department of Agriculture, tour the State House, and watch proceedings from the House and Senate chamber balconies as well.

On March 11, 2025, over 500 participants (495 pre-registered with Clemson Extension; 83 attendees from SC State) painted the State House green as they assembled on the north steps for a ceremony and words of encouragement from State 4-H Teen Council and Representative Patrick Haddon of Greenville. A new addition to the ceremony this year was county roll call where a 4-H’er from each county delegation had a county-shaped 4-H sign to hold up as their delegation waved and cheered. The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement by Representative Haddon that legislation will soon be passed allowing school absences for 4-H and FFA events to be excused.

This event serves as a crucial introduction to civic engagement for many participants. It may be their first interaction with legislators and the state government system, potentially sparking future careers in legislative offices, executive agencies, or advocacy groups. South Carolina 4-H is proud to provide this opportunity to make the best better and prepare our youth to become beyond ready for life.

The 2025 South Carolina 4-H Hippology and Horse Judging Contest was held March 28-29 in Clemson, SC

Hippology was on Friday, March 28^th and is a multi-part contest where youth take an exam, answer slide

based questions, answer questions in a physical station format and participate in a team problem where their team is tasked with a situation, and they must provide a solution to the problem to a panel of judges. We had over 50 youth ages 9-18 compete this year. The next day, the youth then judged 4 live judging classes to wrap up the contest.  Our Top 8 seniors were invited to be a part of the South Carolina 4-H Educational State Team where they will compete in multiple regional and national level contests. 

Horse Judging was on Saturday March 29^th at the Garrison Arena. We hosted 4-H and FFA teams from all over the state to compete in placing 8 different classes of horses and gave reasons on 2-4 classes on why they placed the class the way they did and defend their reasoning. We had over 150 youth that day and they judged classes ranging from Ranch Riding to Tennessee Walking Horse Park Pleasure and Hunter in Hand and Warmblood in Hand. Again, the Top 8 seniors were invited to be a part of the South Carolina 4-H Educational State Team where they will compete in multiple regional and national level contests.

We hosted officials from all over the state and region to share their expertise and be a part of giving our youth a fantastic experience in the contest. These officials are members of the equine industry who have support judging contests all over the nation. We were thrilled to have them join us. 

Additionally, the Harvey S. Peeler School of Veterinary Medicine provided multiple members of the faculty to assist as judges for both contests and additionally partially sponsored our lunch for the contestants. 

South Carolina Farm Bureau provided additional funds to cover the cost of lunch.

#WeRideTogether sponsored gifts for every exhibitor.

YEDA sponsored some of our awards.

The Elizabeth Buist Memorial Fund sponsored our monetary awards for our winners in each contest.

The Clarence W. Senn ’34 Memorial Fund sponsored plaques that were given to each winner.

The South Carolina Horse Council additionally sponsored awards for our contest. 

2025 Forest Fest

Forest Fest, held on March 29, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM, was a successful community event co-coordinated by Dr. Betty Baldwin, a PRTM professor, and Patricia Whitener, 4-H Natural Resource Program Leader. The festival took place along the scenic 4-mile Issaqueena Lake Rd. and attracted approximately 517 visitors, including 73 volunteers. The event featured 28 activity stations, offering a wide variety of interactive learning experiences for all ages, centered around forestry, wildlife, and environmental stewardship.

Food for the event was provided by Simpell Sammies food truck, while live bluegrass music was performed by Tiger Town Roots, a student band from the Brooks Performing

Arts Center. The event brought together a diverse group of participants and organizations, including Extension staff, Clemson students, local partners, and community volunteers. These included representatives from Water Resources, Rural Health, 4-H, School and Community Gardening, Ag Services, the SCBG, the Soils Lab, and CAFLS (including FEC students and faculty). Other contributors included student clubs like MANRRS and Students for

Sustainability, as well as groups such as SC Master Naturalists, CORE, SCDNR, the SC Forestry Commission, and the Anderson Soil & Water Conservation District.

The purpose of Forest Fest was to strengthen relationships with local partners, promote skill-building through collaborative learning, explore career paths in natural resources, and engage participants in

hands-on educational activities. The event highlighted the wonders of forests and provided an opportunity to foster connections between Clemson University and the surrounding Upstate communities.

Salesforce

Salesforce is a customer relationship management software that also serves as Clemson Extension’s reporting system

Helpful Tips:

• Please bookmark the Salesforce link https://clemson.my.salesforce.com
• Eventbrite syncs with Salesforce once a day. Each team has their own accounts and policies for Eventbrite, please contact your PTD should you have questions.   If your programs are missing 48 hours after the event is created, please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu.  Remember, you may search on the Program Events tab for events under other users’ ownership.
• You may add a Team Member to an Interaction or a Program Event.  To do so, create the interaction and save and then view the interaction. Once you scroll you will see a box for “Team Members” where you can add assisting users.   For program events, view the Details tab on Program Event record and you can add an assisting user as well.  You may also run a report to view records you have been added as a Team Member on.
• Check out the “Agent Reports” folder on the Reports tab.  In this folder you will find a number of reports you may find helpful. You may clone these reports and save a copy under your name to make edits and learn how the reports work.  Please feel free to contact the Advisory team should you need assistance or would like to request a report.

Service Milestones:
I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:

• Miracle Rabon, Horry County 4-H Youth Development Agent, 10 years

Congratulations!

• T.J. Savereno was awarded the South Carolina Vegetation Management Association Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 South Carolina Vegetation Management Annual Conference. The SCVMA Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for individuals who have contributed substantially to advance the vegetation management industry in South Carolina. Thank you to Terasa Lott for the highlight!
• Mallory Maher has embraced her new position and was highlighted in OurClemson. https://news.clemson.edu/clemson-extension-names-new-coordinator-for-sc-master-naturalist-program/?utm_campaign=our-clemson&utm_medium=email&utm_source=emma&utm_term=2025 She oversees six host sites across the state – Upstate, Catawba, Midlands, Winyah, Charleston and Lowcountry.

New Employees 

• Mike Windhorn: Area Forest and Natural Resources Agent, Dorchester Office 
• Lauren Smith: 4-H Youth Development Agent, Laurens County 
• Shannon Seegers: Statewide Program Coordinator for the South Carolina Master Gardener Volunteer Program

Job Openings

We have new openings to fill with talent. The following positions with their job ID numbers are currently posted on the Clemson Careers website. http://www.clemson.edu/careers

• Administrative Assistant, Dorchester Extension Office, 109608
• Administrative Assistant, Bishopville Extension Office, 109609

IN CLOSING …

In closing, I want to thank you all for your continued dedication to Clemson Cooperative Extension. As we navigate through this period of careful financial planning, your hard work and commitment to our mission remain vital to our success. With exciting events ahead and new opportunities to engage with our communities, I’m confident that we will continue to grow and thrive together. I look forward to keeping you updated and appreciate everything you do to support our programs and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Thank you for all that you do, and here’s to an exciting and successful spring ahead!

As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.

Upcoming Events and Reminders

https://www.clemson.edu/extension/events/index.html

• This year’s Spring Plant Sale is scheduled for April 4-5 and will feature a variety of plants, including hard-to-find native species, seasonal annuals and vegetable transplants. Early access to the Plant Sale begins April 4 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for Friends of the Garden and is open to the public April 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.