I am excited that after seven months, we now have two county offices that have entered into the ‘green’ stage: Williamsburg and Berkeley. The SCDHEC data identified these counties as having low COVID-19 activity. According to our Return to Work Framework Plan, this stage allows these offices to resume operations and open to the general public with new modifications. Of course, everyone must follow the mandated safety protocols, including physical distancing and face coverings.
Navigating through this pandemic with limited scientific knowledge has been very trying. In many cases, we have improved our program delivery methods, but our strength will always be in our in-person interactions. I want to encourage everyone to begin carefully planning for a return to in-person group and club meetings so that we are ready. However, our Extension family has radiated determination during COVID-19 because of our adaptive measures.
Our media release posted by University Relations this past Friday compiled successes over the last six months across our program teams. The highlights are impressive when presented individually, but collectively, they are explosive and should make every one of us proud to be a part of Extension. Additionally, on Friday afternoon, President Clements praised Extension’s work in his email update distributed to over 130K recipients, including employees, alumni, parents, students, the Board of Trustees, and others. If anyone has questioned the impact of Extension during COVID-19, they are most likely speechless after reading the evidence presented.
Even though our work’s momentum and its recognition are building, I am still very concerned with our budget. I need everyone’s help to ensure we protect it against reductions. As our state searches for ways to reduce the state budget, I want them to bypass Extension. The only way to maintain our current budget is through program delivery that clearly demonstrates local impact. It is frustrating when others ask when we are ‘going back to work’ because they see closed county offices. I receive similar questions.
• Why won’t you let the agents and Master Gardeners go back to work?
• Why won’t you let us have 4-H meetings?
• Why do the people on campus think they know what is best for the counties?
It may seem easier to agree with your constituents when they ask you these questions, but the worst thing you can do is feed their negativity. Suggesting that Extension is not being effective puts our budget in jeopardy. We need to respond positively and emphasize the successes we have had over the past six months. Directing them to the media release I mentioned above is a good start. Reassure our stakeholders that we are looking ahead and evaluating plans to shift back to our previous interaction methods. We want to see our stakeholders in person as much as they want to see us. If you need to vent your frustration, please talk to your District Extension Director or your Program Team Director, but I ask you to remain positive when you engage your stakeholders.
Your Leadership Team has worked hours on end to develop policies that protect you and your families. Our number one priority is the safety of our Extension family. I hope you realize decisions are made to protect you, your family, and our stakeholders. Please do your part to keep yourself and those around you safe. Be a Part of the Solution. Wear a mask, physically distance, and wash your hands frequently. Serve as a responsible and positive ambassador for Clemson Extension. As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Extension.
