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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nOne of Clemson Cooperative Extension’s greatest strengths is the dedicated network of Master Gardener Volunteers who serve as trusted ambassadors of research-based horticultural education in communities across our state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the 2025-2026 reporting year (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026), South Carolina Master Gardener Volunteers contributed an impressive 68,518 hours of service<\/strong>, reaching 217,148 adults<\/strong> and 37,002 youth<\/strong> through educational programs, community outreach, demonstration gardens, plant clinics, and other volunteer activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To put this contribution into perspective, the volunteer service provided by Master Gardeners is equivalent to the work of nearly 40 full-time Extension Agents<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond the impressive numbers lies an even greater impact. Master Gardener Volunteers help connect South Carolinians with reliable, science-based horticultural information while fostering meaningful local relationships. In an age when information is readily available online, the value of trusted, knowledgeable volunteers engaging directly with community members cannot be overstated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Their commitment helps ensure that Clemson Extension’s research and expertise remain accessible, relevant, and impactful in every corner of the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We extend our sincere appreciation to our Master Gardener Volunteers for their dedication, service, and passion. Their efforts continue to strengthen communities and enhance Clemson Extension’s mission of delivering research-based solutions that improve lives across South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you, Master Gardeners, for another outstanding year of service and impact<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson Extension proudly welcomed youth and their families to the 2026 South Carolina Junior Beef Round-Up (SCJBRU), held July 31\u2013August 2 at the T. Ed Garrison Arena.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year, 124 youth from South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama participated, leading 168 head of cattle through the Garrison Arena over the three-day event. Youth competed in a variety of educational contests, including the Junior Cattlemen\u2019s Contest, and demonstrated their skills in showmanship. A total of 13 educational scholarships were also awarded to deserving youth to support their continued education.<\/p>\n\n\n The success of SCJBRU would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors and the proceeds from the silent and live auctions. We extend our sincere appreciation to the SCJBRU Advisory Committee, SCJBRU Implementation Team, South Carolina 4-H Agents, Clemson Extension Livestock & Forage Team, families, and alumni whose continued support makes this event possible year after year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A special thank-you goes to the outstanding T. Ed Garrison Arena crew for their leadership and tireless behind-the-scenes efforts in helping make the 2026 Round-Up a success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Congratulations to all of the youth who participated and thank you to everyone who helped make the 2026 South Carolina Junior Beef Round-Up a memorable and meaningful experience!<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP), coordinated through Clemson Cooperative Extension and the South Carolina Master Naturalist Program, continues to prepare South Carolina youth for success in wildlife conservation, natural resource management, and environmental leadership. Since Extension reestablished the statewide competition in 2019 under the leadership of Mallory Maher, South Carolina Master Naturalist Program Coordinator, South Carolina teams have earned seven national championships, highlighting the strength of Extension’s youth education and educator development efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This year’s National WHEP Championships, hosted in Myrtle Beach, brought together 18 teams from 15 states. Competitors participated in hands-on wildlife and habitat management challenges at the S.C. Department of Natural Resources’ Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve, while also engaging in educational experiences that showcased South Carolina’s natural resources.<\/p>\n\n\n South Carolina students once again excelled on the national stage. Pendleton High School captured the national championship in the FFA Division, marking the state’s sixth consecutive FFA national title, while Pendleton’s Cooper Lindley was named the nation’s top individual competitor. The Governor’s School for Agriculture also represented South Carolina with a strong fifth-place finish in the 4-H Division.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Beyond competition, WHEP inspires future leaders in conservation, agriculture, and natural resources while demonstrating the power of partnerships among Clemson Extension, educators, volunteers, state agencies, and industry partners. These outstanding results reflect Clemson Extension’s continued commitment to developing the next generation of natural resource stewards and conservation professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Congratulations to the students, coaches, volunteers, and Extension professionals whose dedication continues to position South Carolina as a national leader in wildlife education and conservation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition Program Team received the Team Award for Excellence in Extension<\/strong> at the Southern Region Program Leadership Network (SP-PLN) conference. Led by Rhonda Matthews<\/strong>, the 27-member team includes Extension agents, associates, and program coordinators dedicated to improving health outcomes in South Carolina’s rural communities.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n Since its formation in 2018, the team has delivered more than 400 programs reaching over 10,000 participants statewide. Through evidence-based education, research, and community partnerships, the team addresses critical health issues including nutrition, physical activity, chronic disease prevention and management, food access, and maternal and infant health. The award recognizes the team’s collaborative approach and significant impact on the health and well-being of communities across South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From July 28th through August 2nd, 26 outstanding 4-H youth representing 10 South Carolina counties traveled to Perry, Georgia, to compete in the Southern Regional 4-H Horse Championships, facing top 4-H equestrians from 13 surrounding states.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Earning a place on the South Carolina delegation is an achievement, as competitors must qualify through state 4-H equestrian events to represent the Palmetto State at the Regional Championships. Once there, South Carolina’s youth rose to the challenge, demonstrating exceptional horsemanship, teamwork, sportsmanship, and equine knowledge throughout the week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2026 Southern Regional 4-H Horse Championships proved to be a successful event for South Carolina 4-H members, with participants earning numerous top 10 finishes across both riding events and knowledge competitions. These accomplishments are a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and countless hours of preparation invested by the youth, as well as the unwavering support of their families, coaches, volunteers, and Extension professionals. South Carolina 4-H proudly celebrates these young equestrians representing their counties and state with excellence and bringing home an impressive collection\u00a0of <\/strong>regional honors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson Extension’s Agricultural Safety Program continues to play a critical role in protecting South Carolina’s agricultural community through specialized grain bin safety and rescue training. What began in 2019 as a youth-focused farm safety initiative has expanded to equip first responders with the knowledge and skills needed to respond to one of agriculture’s most dangerous emergencies: grain bin entrapment.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n Led by Shelley Lovern, Agricultural Safety and AgrAbility Extension Associate, the program has trained more than 50 fire and rescue departments since 2023 through hands-on grain bin rescue simulations supported by the South Carolina Corn Board. These trainings provide first responders with practical experience using rescue equipment and responding to life-threatening entrapment scenarios that can occur on farms across the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The program’s impact is already evident. Following training and equipment acquisition, firefighters in Dillon County successfully responded to a grain bin entrapment incident earlier this year, demonstrating how preparation and partnerships can help save lives in rural communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As awareness grows, the program continues to identify critical equipment and training needs across the state. Through collaboration with commodity boards, emergency responders, and agricultural stakeholders, Clemson Extension is helping strengthen South Carolina’s capacity to respond to agricultural emergencies while advancing its commitment to farm safety, workforce preparedness, and community resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Agricultural Safety Program exemplifies how Extension education, partnerships, and applied training can make a lifesaving difference for South Carolina’s farmers and first responders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2026 South Carolina State Fair is set to run from Thursday, October 15 through Sunday, October 25.\u00a0\u00a0Please plan to represent Extension at our booth in the Ellison Building on one of these days.\u00a0\u00a0We are now taking volunteers to work shifts on Sunday, October 18th and Saturday, October 24.\u00a0\u00a0Please contact Becca Hedden at\u00a0rthomp7@clemson.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please be sure you are updating key fields in Salesforce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These include: the Extension Project, Program County\/Work Location, Hours of Instruction\/Contact Hours, and marking Program Events as \u201cComplete.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n This information must be entered for our reports to pull your data and show your hard work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Puskar Khanal, Associate Professor of Forest Economics and Management, Forestry and Wildlife Resources Program Team, 10 years; Christi Leard: Extension Program Manager, 20 years, and Stephen Pohlman, Jr.: Area Forestry & Wildlife Agent: Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, McCormick and Saluda, 20 Years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n As I reflect on the accomplishments highlighted throughout this month’s newsletter, I am reminded of the tremendous impact Clemson Cooperative Extension has across South Carolina. From developing future leaders through 4-H and natural resource education programs, to supporting communities through volunteer service, agricultural safety, and health initiatives, our collective efforts continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to our land-grant mission. The successes celebrated in this issue are a direct reflection of the passion and hard work of our employees, volunteers, and partners across the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we move into the fall season, I encourage you to take pride in these accomplishments and remain focused on the opportunities ahead. Working together, we will continue to strengthen communities, advance research-based solutions, and create lasting impact for South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dear Extension Family, As summer transitions into fall, I am reminded of the tremendous impact Clemson Cooperative Extension continues to make in communities across South Carolina. The stories highlighted in this month’s newsletter reflect the dedication, expertise, and passion our employees, volunteers, and partners bring to our mission every day. From the remarkable service of […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4213,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[54396],"tags":[],"coauthors":[102417],"class_list":["post-1752","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-from-the-director"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1752","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4213"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1752"}],"version-history":[{"count":27,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1752\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1815,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1752\/revisions\/1815"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1752"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1752"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1752"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1752"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":1728,"date":"2026-08-03T17:16:46","date_gmt":"2026-08-03T17:16:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/?p=1728"},"modified":"2026-08-05T15:24:17","modified_gmt":"2026-08-05T15:24:17","slug":"july-2026-monthly-directors-letter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/2026\/08\/03\/july-2026-monthly-directors-letter\/","title":{"rendered":"July 2026: Monthly Director\u2019s Letter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Dear Extension Family,<\/p>\n\n\n\n A Renewed Focus on Our Core Mission<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As we continue serving South Carolina, we must renew our commitment to the core purpose of Clemson Cooperative Extension: improving lives through research-based education, practical solutions, and trusted partnerships. While technologies and communities change, our mission remains constant\u2014and it must guide every decision we make.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each day our Extension professionals partner with farmers, families, youth, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems and create opportunities. From supporting agricultural producers and training future leaders through 4-H and Middle & Secondary Agriculture Education, to promoting healthy communities, protecting natural resources, and strengthening local economies, our work is service-driven. Our highest priority is to deliver high-quality educational programs that meet the real needs of South Carolinians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Refocusing on our mission is not a return to the past. It means asking, for every program and partnership: How does this serve the people of South Carolina? That question should be central to program selection, resource allocation, and daily practice. This is not optional\u2014this is essential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The way we answer that question is by using organized needs assessments, clear plans of work, and systematic impact assessment. Needs assessments identify community priorities. Plans of work align our resources and activities with those priorities. Impact assessment demonstrates outcomes and return on investment. These steps\u2014though time-consuming\u2014are fundamental to ensuring our programs are relevant, effective, and accountable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When questions arise about who should deliver educational programming across our ten program areas, the answer is clear: Clemson Cooperative Extension Service. Our statewide presence, expertise, and deep community relationships position us to lead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This newsletter celebrates the dedication, innovation, and accomplishments of our faculty and staff. Let it remind us that our strength is found not only in expertise, but in the relationships and trust we build across the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you for your continued commitment to Clemson Cooperative Extension and to the people we serve. Together we will uphold our land\u2011grant mission\u2014delivering knowledge, fostering innovation, and improving lives throughout South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you to our Admins<\/strong>!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Administrative Assistants Day may only come once a year, but the impact of Administrative Assistants is felt every single day. In many ways, that simply isn’t enough time to recognize all that you do for Clemson Extension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To our Administrative Assistants across the state, from the Extension office to every county office: Thank you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n You are the welcoming face that our clients encounter when they call, visit, or seek assistance. You are the steady hand behind countless processes that keep our organization moving forward. You support agents, associates, specialists, and administrators. You manage complex financial responsibilities, coordinate logistics, maintain accessibility, solve problems before many of us even realize they exist, and provide the kind of dependable public service that often goes unnoticed because you make it look effortless.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The truth is that Clemson Extension could not fulfill its mission without you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Cooperative Extension model has always depended on partnership, collaboration, and shared commitment. Just as our success relies on cooperative funding and support at the federal, state, and local levels, it also relies on the dedication, professionalism, and servant leadership of our Administrative Assistants. You are not simply supporting the work of Extension. You are an essential part of how Extension works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Over the past year, your contributions have been especially meaningful. We have navigated budgetary challenges, changing business practices, and the implementation of entirely new systems and processes. Learning new tools such as Workday while continuing to provide exceptional service required patience, flexibility, and resilience. Through every challenge, you remained committed to helping others succeed. You adapted, learned, and continued moving forward while ensuring that the needs of our faculty, staff, stakeholders, and communities were met.<\/p>\n\n\n\n That commitment has not gone unnoticed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we look ahead, we know that change will continue. Institutions with a 112-year history do not remain successful by standing still. They succeed because their people are willing to adapt, respond, and evolve. Those qualities are part of the very foundation of Extension, and they are qualities that our Administrative Assistants demonstrate every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You embody the spirit we encourage in the communities we serve. When challenges arise, you find solutions. When systems change, you learn and adapt. When others need support, you step forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On behalf of all those whose work is made easier because of your efforts, thank you for your professionalism, your dedication, your patience, and your unwavering commitment to public service. Most importantly, thank you for being the glue that holds so much of Clemson Extension together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We celebrate you today, but we appreciate you every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you for all that you do for Clemson Extension and the people we serve<\/strong>!<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n South Carolina 4-H youth recently represented Clemson Extension at the National Holstein Convention in Orlando, Florida, marking the state’s first delegation to attend the event in many years. Hosted annually by Holstein USA, the convention brings together youth from across the country to develop leadership skills, expand their knowledge of the dairy industry, and compete in educational contests focused on dairy science and agriculture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The South Carolina delegation participated in several national competitions, including Dairy Quiz Bowl, Dairy Jeopardy, the Scientific Poster Contest, and Prepared Public Speaking. Competing against experienced youth from across the nation, the team earned two national honors.<\/p>\n\n\n Emma Uhall of Abbeville County 4-H captured first place in the Intermediate Scientific Poster Contest for her project on Biosecurity<\/strong>, while the Junior Dairy Quiz Bowl Team\u2014Sara Ann Crawford (Saluda County 4-H), Brewer Honea and Harris Honea (Anderson County 4-H), and Emma Uhall (Abbeville County 4-H)\u2014received the prestigious J. George and Anna Smith Sportsmanship Award<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The trip provided valuable opportunities for youth to strengthen their dairy knowledge, develop leadership and communication skills, build friendships with peers from across the country, and proudly represent South Carolina on the national stage. Congratulations to our outstanding 4-H members and to Clemson Extension staff Tina Horn and Amanda Lutz for helping make this memorable experience possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson Cooperative Extension Service was well represented at the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference, held July 8\u201312, 2026, in Denver, Colorado. Extension professionals from across South Carolina joined colleagues from around the country to share innovative programming, present research, and receive national recognition for their outstanding work.<\/p>\n\n\n National Recognition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Several Clemson Cooperative Extension agents were recognized for their years of service and professional excellence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distinguished Service Awards<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Achievement Awards<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n South Carolina National Finalists<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n South Carolina was represented by four national finalists in NACAA communications and programming competitions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Posters Featured at the National Conference<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n While numerous Clemson Cooperative Extension posters were submitted for consideration, the following were selected for display at the national conference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Extension Education<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Applied Research<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Professional Development<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition to poster presentations, Charley Maxwell presented a professional development session on Program Hospitality, sharing strategies and best practices with Extension professionals from across the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Congratulations to all of our Clemson Cooperative Extension faculty and staff whose achievements, presentations, and educational programs were recognized at the 2026 NACAA Annual Meeting. Their accomplishments reflect the innovation, dedication, and impact of Extension across South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The South Carolina 4-H Dairy Heifer Project officially kicked off its 52nd year with an evening full of education, hands-on learning, and excitement as 37 youth from counties across South Carolina began their almost 2-year journey. This year’s project includes 23 first-time participants, highlighting the continued growth and impact of one of South Carolina 4-H’s longest-running livestock projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thanks to the generosity of 15 family-owned dairies from across the Southeast, each participant received a dairy heifer to raise, care for, and exhibit over the coming almost 2 years. These dedicated dairy families continue to invest in the next generation by providing youth with an invaluable opportunity to develop responsibility, confidence, and animal husbandry skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The kickoff event gave participants and their families the opportunity to build their knowledge before taking their calves home. Youth participated in a mock Junior Herdsman Contest, testing their dairy knowledge while learning new information along the way. This year, parents were invited to participate alongside their children, creating a fun and engaging learning experience for the whole family. Even past showmen and Dairy Heifer Project alumni discovered they had a few things to learn, proving that agriculture is a lifelong learning experience.<\/p>\n\n\n Participants also rotated through several hands-on educational stations where they learned how to properly administer vaccines, learned how to weigh their calf using a weight tape, and discuss dairy nutrition and herd health with Dr. Emily Waggoner. These practical experiences help prepare youth to confidently care for their animals throughout the project year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the evening’s most anticipated traditions was the calf draw, where participants selected numbers from historic milk cans to determine which heifer they would receive. The excitement and anticipation in the room marked the beginning of what will undoubtedly be a memorable year for these young livestock exhibitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most rewarding moments of the evening was seeing families return to the project generation after generation. Several parents who once participated in the SC 4-H Dairy Heifer Project as youth were back again\u2014this time helping their own children begin the same journey. Their return is a testament to the lasting impact of this program. The knowledge, life skills, friendships, and memories they gained through 4-H inspired them to provide those same opportunities for the next generation. Few things better demonstrate the success of this project than seeing former participants become parents who believe so strongly in the experience that they bring their own children back to be a part of it.<\/p>\n\n\n The SC 4-H Dairy Heifer Project Committee extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make the kickoff a success. We are especially grateful to the 15 family-owned dairies that generously donated heifers, to Dr. Emily Waggoner for sharing her expertise and assisting with vaccinations and educational programming, and to Boehringer Ingelheim for generously donating the vaccines that will help keep this year’s calves healthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As the 52nd year of the SC 4-H Dairy Heifer Project begins, the committee looks forward to watching these young people grow alongside their heifers. Through hard work, dedication, and hands-on learning, participants will gain valuable skills in animal care, responsibility, and leadership while building friendships that will last a lifetime. Those relationships, along with the lessons learned throughout the year, are what make this project so special. This year’s participants are continuing a tradition that has been shaping South Carolina youth for more than five decades, and we cannot wait to see all they accomplish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. We are now taking volunteers to work shifts on Sunday, October 18 and Saturday, October 24. Please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu<\/a> ASAP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please be sure you are updating key fields in Salesforce. These include: the Extension Project, Program County\/Work Location, Hours of Instruction\/Contact Hours, and marking Program Events as \u201cComplete.\u201d Without this information entered, our reports will not show your hard work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chad Carter, Food Systems and Safety Program Team Charleston County Cooperative Extension Office, 10 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n As you read the stories in this issue, I hope you see a common thread: Extension’s impact begins with dedicated people committed to serving others. Whether mentoring youth, supporting producers, conducting applied research, or strengthening communities, your work reflects the very best of our land-grant mission. Thank you for your continued dedication, professionalism, and service. Together, we will continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Carolinians every day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Go Tigers!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dear Extension Family, A Renewed Focus on Our Core Mission As we continue serving South Carolina, we must renew our commitment to the core purpose of Clemson Cooperative Extension: improving lives through research-based education, practical solutions, and trusted partnerships. While technologies and communities change, our mission remains constant\u2014and it must guide every decision we make. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4213,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[54396],"tags":[],"coauthors":[102417],"class_list":["post-1728","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-from-the-director"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1728","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4213"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1728"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1728\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1728"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1728"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1728"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1728"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":1706,"date":"2026-07-06T15:30:45","date_gmt":"2026-07-06T15:30:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/?p=1706"},"modified":"2026-07-06T15:30:45","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T15:30:45","slug":"june-2026-monthly-directors-letter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/2026\/07\/06\/june-2026-monthly-directors-letter\/","title":{"rendered":"June 2026: Monthly Director\u2019s Letter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Dear Extension Family,<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we begin a new fiscal year, I want to thank each of you for your continued dedication to Clemson Cooperative Extension and the people we serve across South Carolina. This time of year brings both new opportunities and new responsibilities, and I appreciate the flexibility, professionalism, and teamwork you have demonstrated as we transition to our new Workday system. I know learning a new system takes time and patience, and I appreciate your commitment to making this transition a success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we celebrate Independence Day, I hope each of you has the opportunity to enjoy a safe and relaxing holiday with family and friends. Thank you for the important work you do every day to strengthen our communities and uphold Clemson Extension’s land-grant mission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month’s newsletter includes important reminders, employee recognitions, service milestones, and highlights from across our Extension system. I hope you enjoy reading about the outstanding work taking place throughout our organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Big thank you to Marie Bolt while the circus was in town!<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4-H Horse Show<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The 2026 South Carolina 4-H State Horse Show held June 9th-11th at T Ed Garrison Arena in Clemson, SC, brought together 4-H members from across the state. Competitors excelled in numerous disciplines, including Dressage, Jumping, Western and Speed events. \u202fIn addition to hands-on events, the Horse Project Creative Contest entries showcased youth artwork and handicrafts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Our South Carolina 4-H Equine Program would like to extend special recognition to the Division Champions and Reserve Champions from the show: Alanna Shirk, Eli Hutson, Kali Beverly, Madison Storey, Shannon Abbey, Haven Bell, Sophia Lastinger, Kaitlyn Chavis, Enslie Guidotti, Anna Grace Pukl, Renata Wendelowski, Adelaide Bryant, Brayden Morris, Allison Jewell, Eden Lastinger, Slade Shirley, and Riley Webster. Congratulations to our exhibitors and a special thank you to the South Carolina Horse Council for their sponsorship of the Junior and Senior Versatility classes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n State Fair:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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. We are now taking volunteers to work shifts on Sunday, October 18 and Saturday, October 24. Please contact Becca Hedden at rthomp7@clemson.edu<\/a> ASAP.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Salesforce:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Please be advised the Fiscal Year ended on June 30, 2026. Your files should be updated to include all of your Program Events, Interactions, and Extension Entries. Key fields should be completed, including the Extension Project, Program County\/Work Location, Hours of Instruction\/Contact Hours, and marking Program Events as \u201cComplete.\u201d We will start pulling these for our final reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights: <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Upcoming: Soon you will receive an invitation to Instructure Canvas to complete the Civil Rights Compliance Course through ClemsonOnline. This course has been reviewed and approved by USDA-NIFA and will serve as an annual Civil Rights Training for Clemson Cooperative Extension Service. Once you have completed all lessons in the training, please take the final quiz. You will receive a Certificate of Completion upon passing the quiz. Please save this certificate for your records. If you have any questions, please contact Candice Heatherly at ceharpe@clemson.edu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Service Milestones:<\/strong> Tom Dobbins, Associate Dean of Outreach & Engagement Director of Extension Service and Professor, 40 Years; Jonathan Croft, Agronomic Crops – Orangeburg, Dorchester, Berkeley Counties, 20 Years; Shannon Barrett, Director of Planning & Engagement SC Botanical Gardens, 10 Years; Dawn Stuckey, Colleton & Hampton County 4-H Youth Development Agent, 10 Years; <\/p>\n\n\n\n New Employees <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Please help me welcome the newest members of our Extension family:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n IN CLOSING \u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n As we move through the summer, I encourage you to take time to recharge while continuing the important work that makes Clemson Cooperative Extension a trusted resource across South Carolina. Thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and willingness to embrace new opportunities and changes, including the continued implementation of Workday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I appreciate all that you do to serve our citizens, support one another, and advance our land-grant mission. I wish you and your families a safe, enjoyable summer, and I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the months ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As always, please take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Cooperative Extension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Upcoming Events and Reminders<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Dear Extension Family, As we begin a new fiscal year, I want to thank each of you for your continued dedication to Clemson Cooperative Extension and the people we serve across South Carolina. This time of year brings both new opportunities and new responsibilities, and I appreciate the flexibility, professionalism, and teamwork you have demonstrated […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4213,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[54396],"tags":[],"coauthors":[102417],"class_list":["post-1706","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-from-the-director"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1706","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4213"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1706"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1706\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1706"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1706"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1706"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1706"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":1678,"date":"2026-06-03T16:09:21","date_gmt":"2026-06-03T16:09:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/?p=1678"},"modified":"2026-06-03T16:09:21","modified_gmt":"2026-06-03T16:09:21","slug":"may-2026-monthly-directors-letter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/2026\/06\/03\/may-2026-monthly-directors-letter\/","title":{"rendered":"May 2026: Monthly Director\u2019s Letter"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Dear Extension Family,<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we move into the summer season, I want to take a moment to recognize the many accomplishments and milestones highlighted throughout this month\u2019s newsletter. Across Clemson Cooperative Extension, your dedication to serving South Carolina continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This month, we celebrate leadership development, professional excellence, and the lasting impact of Extension service. We congratulate the graduates of the Extension Emerging Leadership Initiative (EELI) for their commitment to professional growth and leadership, and we recognize the continued partnership between Clemson University and South Carolina State University in developing the next generation of Extension leaders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We also proudly honor Raymond Sligh, Rusty Thomson, and Dr. John Irwin on their induction into the A. Frank Lever Hall of Fame. Their combined decades of service exemplify the very best of Extension\u2014building relationships, strengthening agriculture, supporting youth development, and connecting research-based knowledge to the needs of South Carolinians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, I want to congratulate all recipients recognized during the 2026 Communication & Specialty Awards program. These awards highlight the innovation, dedication, and excellence that exist across every area of our organization and reflect the tremendous impact our employees have throughout the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we prepare for the July 1 implementation of Workday, I encourage everyone to take advantage of the upcoming training opportunities and resources available to support a smooth transition. Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and commitment as we navigate this important change together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Thank you for everything you do to advance Clemson Extension\u2019s mission. Your work strengthens our communities, enhances lives, and ensures that Extension remains a trusted resource across South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n I also encourage you to join my monthly Coffee Chat on the first Wednesday of each month at 8:30 a.m. for updates, announcements, and opportunities for discussion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Congratulations to the cohort on their graduation after nine months of engaging leadership development training. Administrators, EELI alumni, staff, community partners, and guests from Clemson Extension and SC State 1890 Research and Extension gathered on May 5 at the Hilton Columbia Center to celebrate the \u201cEELI All Stars: A Legacy of Excellence\u201d. Inspirational thoughts were given by Dr. Tom Dobbins, Dr. Edoe Agbodjan, and Mrs. Deon Legette, along with congratulatory messages from Dean Matthew Holt, Interim President Bob Jones, and President Alexander Conyers.<\/p>\n\n\n Clemson Extension & CAFLS graduates: SC State 1890 Research & Extension graduates: We are very proud of all our graduates, and with commitment to excellence, dedication to service, and vision for greatness, these aspiring leaders will continue to move Cooperative Extension at Clemson University and SC State University to greater heights. The collaboration, networking, partnership, and community engagement between our two land-grant universities continue to be impactful! <\/p>\n\n\n\n Link for graduation video here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nCelebrating the 2026 South Carolina Junior Beef Round-Up<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nCongratulation to Rural Health T<\/strong>eam for Winning Team Award at SR-PLN!!<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/files\/2026\/09\/Copy-of-Livestock-Social-Media-5-1024x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nClemson Extension Expands Agricultural Safety Training Across South Carolina<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nState Fair:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Salesforce:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Service Milestones:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
New Employees <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Job Openings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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IN CLOSING \u2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Upcoming Events and Reminders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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4-H: SC Kids at the National Holstein Convention<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nClemson Cooperative Extension Celebrates Success at the 2026 NACAA Annual Meeting<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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SC 4-H Dairy Heifer Project Celebrates 52 Years of Tradition and Learning<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nState Fair:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Salesforce:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Service Milestones:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
New Employees <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Job Openings<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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IN CLOSING \u2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Upcoming Events and Reminders<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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I would like to congratulate the following on their service milestones to Clemson University:<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Liliana](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/files\/2026\/07\/Headshot-Flores-768x1024.jpeg\")
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EELI All Stars: A Legacy of Excellence<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n
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\u2022 DeAndra Cooper, Rural Health Agent
\u2022 Sharneece Gary, EFNEP Regional Coordinator
\u2022 Geri Jenkins, Administrative Assistant
\u2022 Alyssa Jones, 4-H Youth Development Agent
\u2022 Rushawnda Olden, 4-H Pinckney Leadership Program Director<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2022 Dr. Nana Kusi, Extension Agronomist
\u2022 Boyd Owens, Upstate Regional Director
\u2022 Tyrone Williams, Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
\u2022 Joyce Wilson, Administrative Coordinator<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"EELI](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/extensionnews\/files\/2026\/06\/P1477117-1024x768.jpg\")
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