I believe that mutual respect, openness, creativity, and innovation—the core values of the 21st century—are the hallmarks of Cooperative Extension work.
I believe that Extension educators are called upon not only to affirm these values but also to ensure that they comprise an integral part of our work.
I believe that Extension educators constitute the most valuable of all infrastructure—human infrastructure—and that this deep reservoir built of trust and collaboration retains an infinite capacity for fostering human achievement.
I believe that we are more than simple purveyors of knowledge—we are knowledge enablers whose charge is to add value to knowledge by demonstrating how practical, meaningful, and lasting use can be derived from it.
I believe that our long-standing experience with and affinity for collaborative learning, reflected in the work of Seaman Knapp and Booker T. Washington, singularly equip us for the immense challenges that await us in the 21st century.
I believe that the collaborative learning embodied in Extension work is enhanced by a generous measure of empathy and compassion.
I believe that in an era of frenetic growth punctuated by rampant scarcity, we are called to be sustainers, securing and enriching the lives and livelihoods of those we serve without eroding the ability of future generations to secure and enrich theirs.
I believe that by acknowledging and celebrating our differences, we enhance opportunities for personal growth and enrichment and secure the personal freedom of and respect for all.
I believe that the prevailing winds of change are summoning us to do what we have always done best: to work, to teach, and to inspire through dialogue and empowerment, demonstrating to our diverse audiences the value of accepting and embracing change as an inevitable facet of life and as an opportunity to formulate new ways of thinking, living, and working.
I believe passionately in these ideals and because they embody the essence of Cooperative Extension work, I proudly proclaim and honor them as my own.
Our Mission
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the primary outreach organization for the land grant mission of Alabama A&M University and Auburn University, delivers research-based educational programs that enable people to improve their quality of life and economic well-being.
Core Values
- Research-based programs, materials, and educational activities
- Positive relationships with clients, communities, partners, and stakeholders
- Relevant programming that addresses current societal challenges and opportunities
Related Topics
2024-2025 Officers
2024-2025 Committee Chairpersons
Melissa Voynich, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System coordinator for Dale County, received the 2023 Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce Community Involvement Award Feb. 22, at the Ozark Business Excellence Awards.
Voynich said the award is indicative of the work Dale County Extension does in the community.
“We were so excited to receive this award because it reflects the amazing contributions of our whole team,” Voynich said. “We are all proud to serve this area.”
In the past calendar year, Dale County Extension professionals helped thousands of youths and adults in at least two to three programs per week. The office reaches 3,000 each month with newsletters and newspaper articles, as well as interacting with residents every day through phone or walk-in services. While assisting more than 750 youths in grades 4 through 6, they visited every school in Dale County, one Ozark City School, the Boys and Girls Club, and other community gatherings as requested.
Pictured from left to right: Dale County Administrative Associate Zandi Foss, Miss Ozark and Chamber Ambassador Savannah Pedroza, Dale County Extension Coordinator Melissa Voynich, and EFNEP agent Abigail Shehee.
The following is the mission of the Alabama Association of Extension 4-H Agents:
- To promote the profession of Extension 4-H and youth development.
- To encourage the professional improvement of all members.
- To promote Extension 4-H and youth work as a professional career.
- To provide for the exchange of ideas, methods, and techniques within Extension and with other professional youth organizations.
- To promote understanding, communication, and cooperation among all Extension personnel.
- To support and cooperate with the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents, Inc.
- To strengthen communications and cooperation with the existing Extension Associations.