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 Title 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 Title 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!
