NACDEP Newsletter                                                                                    Winter  Edition

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2026 NACDEP Winter Newsletter

From The Editor

Colleagues: Greetings!  We have officially completed our work for 2025 and have commenced with 2026.  And in so doing, we have the first newsletter of the year for you.  Remember, we publish quarterly: in January, April, June and October.  

I want to express a special thank you to all who contribute to the newsletter.  You make it the successful tool that it is.  And thanks to all of you who read/peruse the newsletter because you are keeping up with what your colleagues are doing and gaining ideas about activities, teaching, research and events in which you can engage.

One of the items I wish to acknowledge in this issue of the newsletter is a tribute to Ken Martin, Community Development Professor at Ohio State University Extension.  Ken was one of the active players in helping to create NACDEP as its own organization separate from the Community Development Society (CDS) back in the early 2000’s.  I would not have had the rich experience I have had with the organization had it not been for Ken.  He nominated me for the editorship of the newsletter we created for our budding organization back in 2011. And the rest, as you know, is history! Congratulations Ken.  In a similar vein, Scott Slattery has written a tribute to Charlie French of UNH.  It is great to give recognition to such long-term colleagues for their work in Community Development.

And now, enjoy the winter edition of the newsletter!

Sincerely,

Thomas W. Blaine, PhD
Associate Professor
Ohio State University Extension
NACDEP Newsletter Editor

President's Column

Submitted by Jaime Menon
Kansas State University
NACDEP President

The Return of the Sun: Finding Light in the Power of Together

Jaime Menon, President, NACDEP

WE MADE IT!!!! Friends — if you’re reading this, we made it. To 2026, yes… but also to The Return of the Sun.

When winter settles in, the challenges of life can often feel heavier. On the darkest days, it can seem like the gloom has no edge. I try not to assume everyone feels this, but lately it’s been hard to imagine I’m alone.

Years ago, I shared a story that seemed to resonate with many this time of year, so I thought it could be timely/relevant to share now:

In my early twenties, the excitement of eloping was quickly met by the reality of isolation in a new state (in hindsight, moving to a new place knowing zero people other than Husband wasn’t that wise). Without a social circle to lean on, my seasonal depression took a firm hold. That isolation, paired with the onset of winter, made for some truly dark days. Before heading back after a visit home, I did something uncharacteristic: I talked to my Dad about how I was feeling. In our house, emotions were a distant priority in proximity to the endless farm work. We didn't do 'I love yous' or deep conversations, not out of unkindness, but because we simply weren't accustomed to that kind of vulnerability. Little did I know that sharing my feelings would open a door to empathy that I had never known existed.

Well, that next year, about mid-November, my Dad called (which yet again was something unusual) and after asking how everything was, he said 

"December 21. It's the day to look out for. Every day after that, we’ll gain sunlight. And it won't be so dark...for so long." 

I remember hanging up the phone and just crying. Even though the date he noted felt a lifetime away, I suddenly felt a sense of hope, something to look forward to. It wasn't just the date, of course, it was the fact that my Dad had reached out in his own way to say 'I love you.' He had seen my pain and made an intentional choice to step outside his comfort zone, offering me a lifeline exactly when he knew I was hurting.

That’s the power of connection. That’s what it looks like when we show up for one another.

We often talk about assets, capacities, and social capital in our field, but underneath those technical terms is something deeply human: the belief that people make each other’s worlds brighter. Sometimes by a lot. Sometimes, just by a few minutes of sunlight at a time, and with this in mind, I find myself returning again and again to Houston’s conference theme: The Power of Together.

And maybe that’s the thing we need to remember right now. We are not meant to walk through the dark alone…and I have no doubt that all of us have been lending light to others during the winter months…because that’s what we do.

In meetings and hallways, in Zooms and boardrooms, in person and through our phones. It’s been the season for checking in, for saying “I see you,” for choosing collaboration over isolation, care over cynicism, action over waiting. 

Reaching out when we haven’t heard from someone in a while. Checking in when the news is heavy, just to ask, “How can I help?” Teaming up to write an article or a grant that keeps important work maintained and moving forward. Finding new ways to partner through changing times, so our shared values remain steady. That’s the power of together.

And as the days grow longer, there’s something we can all look forward to: gathering in the Middle of Everywhere, June 15-18, 2026, in Wichita, KS. A time of networking, professional development, and friendship. The Kansas/National Conference Crew (maybe they don’t want me calling them that…but that’s my endearing term for them) has been working intentionally, like our colleagues of years past, to provide opportunities for connection and camaraderie. I can’t wait to see you there!!!!

But I get ahead of myself.

What I do hope, though, is that until then, you’re taking the time to keep connected, through continuing conversations from the last conference, kickstarting collaborative work, or through NACDEP Committees. If you’re new and not there yet, I hope you soon feel comfortable enough to reach out and start building real connections. I can tell you from experience (ask me sometime… it’s a really stupid, embarrassing story), even if you feel awkward at first, you’ll be surrounded by people who get it — people who empathize and will do their best to help you feel at home.

May this new year bring you joy, happiness, and, through the dark times, a few more minutes of sunlight, inside and out, and may we notice them more often…or shine a light when we see someone shadowed by the clouds. 

Because it’s the new year, I once again have a gift for you – a little something that used to inspire hope when I needed a little sunshine – in case you feel like you could use some, and remember: “Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise.” — Victor Hugo

The Keeper of the Plains is an American Indian sculpture, created by Native American artist Blackbear Bosin.

Jaime Menon, NACDEP President

Join Us in the Middle of Everywhere in June!

Tools for Effective Leadership 

Submitted by Kris Parker
Regional Community Development Educator
Purdue Extension

Have you experienced the value that skilled facilitation can bring to a community group or a work team? Would you like to build your facilitation skills to lead more effective and engaging meetings and group planning processes? If so, come to the workshop that many Extension colleagues have called one of the best and most practical trainings for Extension work.

Purdue Extension and Michigan State University Extension are pleased to be able to offer a special Tools for Effective Facilitation (formerly called Facilitative Leadership) professional development workshop exclusively for Extension Professionals from around the country. This intensive hands-on workshop will be held on April 8-10 near the Indianapolis International Airport. The workshop is open to Extension educators, specialists, faculty, program staff, and grad students in all Extension program areas who work in collaborative community and/or staff groups and teams. If you want to up your facilitation game, this is the place! 

The cost of this workshop includes lunch on all three days, one dinner, a facilitator kit and all materials for $825. The registration fee does not include lodging. A block of rooms has been reserved with Staybridge Suites Airport-Plainfield, starting at $109 not including tax. To register, go to: https://cvent.me/dMa4NG

One of the strengths of this workshop is building a culture of facilitation among colleagues. We hope you can join us in Indy! Please contact Tamara Ogle with any questions [email protected]

NETtra 2025 Conference Poster Session

NETtra 2025 Conference Proceedings Now Available: Catch Up on the Latest Tourism Research

By the NET Editorial Team

Are you interested in destination development strategies, agritourism, medical tourism, or the outdoor recreation economy? You can explore 13 papers from the 2025 NETtra Conference – a first-time collaboration between the National Extension Tourism (NET) Network and the Northeast Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (NETTRA) — hosted by the University of New Hampshire in October 7-10, 2025 in Meredith, New Hampshire, USA.

These papers represent the latest in travel and tourism research and community projects, with topics of interest to tourism practitioners and community stakeholders, as well as academics. Access the Proceedings at https://www.nettra.org/2025-nettra-proceedings.html

Also, be sure to mark your calendars for the 2027 NET Conference, scheduled to take place Oct. 18-21, 2027, in the Jackson Hole Area of Wyoming

Learn more about NET and its Agritourism and Outdoor Recreation Workgroups through the NET website at extensiontourism.net/ or join NET on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/national-extension-tourism-network.

Registration Open for National Rural Grocery Initiative

Submitted by Clara Misenhelter

Kansas State

We are excited to announce that registration for the 2026 National Rural Grocery Summit is now open! Hosted by the Rural Grocery Initiative at Kansas State University, in partnership with the University of Minnesota Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships and the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives, the summit will be held May 5-7, 2026 in Fargo, North Dakota.

If you are a community and economic development Extension professional invested in improving access to healthy food in rural communities, you won’t want to miss out on this event! The National Rural Grocery Summit, hosted every other year, is the premier networking and resource-sharing venue for independent grocers and rural food access stakeholders. It brings together grocery store owners, community leaders, food suppliers, academic researchers, healthy food access stakeholders, policy makers, and funders to connect and share lessons learned.

Highlights include:

• Multiple keynotes from thought leaders in rural grocery,
• Optional tours featuring innovative rural grocery models in Minnesota and North Dakota,
• Countless networking opportunities,
• And more!

 Be sure to register at https://www.ruralgrocery.org/summit/register/ by March 15th to secure early bird pricing.

Ken Martin Honored with the 2025 Ohio State University Raymond A Schindler Excellence in Community Development Extension Award

Ohio State University Extension Professor Ken Martin, PhD (left) with Joe Lucente - Acting Assistant Director, Community Development; Associate Professor and Extension Educator, Ohio Sea Grant College Program, who presented the 2025 Ohio State Extension CD Award.

The Ohio State University Extension Excellence Awards highlight the extraordinary leadership and lasting impact of professionals who elevate Community Development across Ohio. In 2025, Professor Ken Martin, PhD, was honored as the recipient of the 2025 Raymond A. Schindler Excellence in Community Development Award. His work reflects a deep commitment to strengthening communities, advancing innovative programming, and fostering collaboration that makes a meaningful difference statewide and beyond.

This award originated in 2012 and recognizes a CD Extension professional for significant programmatic strengths, major contributions, and innovative approaches achieved throughout their Extension career. It is named the Raymond A. Schindler Excellence in Community Development Extension Award, as Schindler was one of the first CD professionals hired in 1962. The award is presented annually.

Martin has had responsibilities spanning a variety of leadership roles and programmatic emphases since 1991 across three state Extension systems, Penn State, West Virginia, and ultimately Ohio State since 2005. In addition to giving program leadership to energy development, Martin’s focus areas have included rural health; rural development; community, economic and workforce development; and, community leadership. Most recently, this person has been involved in health-related Extension work. His efforts have been supported by more than $2.5 million in external funding.

As a professor in the Department of Extension, Martin also specializes in rural vitality and leadership. Through this role, he mentors students in the Rural Sociology 4500 course, as well as junior faculty members.

He also leads efforts in rural health community development programs and works with multidisciplinary efforts to address the opioid epidemic. With rural communities being one of his focus areas, he serves on the farm and rural stress task force, as well as serving as PI and co-PI on several prevention education grants and farm stress grants.

Through his efforts to engage and build capacity in others, Martin’s efforts have been multiplied exponentially across Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. His work has helped support the creation of team and other collaborative endeavors that have impacted communities, the environment, and their residents. He has been recognized for many programming and service efforts spanning his career with a variety of awards from numerous groups at the regional, state and national levels. 

News From NCRCRD

Submitted by Mary Breidenbach
Purdue University
NCRCRD 2026 Grant Opportunities - RFPs Now Available

The NCRCRD’s grant program offers four funding opportunities that supports new and ongoing regional research, Extension, and integrated activities and enhances the ability of the North Central Region’s thirty-four land-grant institutions to positively influence the quality of life in the region’s rural areas. The four opportunities are:

• Small Grants: Offered once per year. Submission Deadline: March 16, 2026, 5 p.m. ET.
• Fellows Program: Proposals accepted on a rolling basis throughout 2026.
• Extension Collaboration and Implementation Grants: Proposals accepted on a rolling basis throughout 2026.
• Thematic Working Groups: Proposals accepted on a rolling basis throughout 2026.

Learn more about NCRCRD grants and download RFPs

Upcoming NCRCRD Webinars: 

JANURARY WEBINAR

The North Central Quality Childcare Network: Innovative Approaches to Growing Quality Childcare Across the North Central Region

Thursday, January 29, 2026 • 1:00 pm ET 
This webinar will introduce the North Central Quality Childcare (NCQC) Network—an Extension-led collaboration focused on growing high-quality childcare in rural communities across the North Central Region. Join this interactive discussion on the region’s childcare challenges and learn how Extension professionals are collaborating to strengthen childcare systems and support rural communities.

January Registration

FEBRUARY WEBINAR

Freely Shared, Widely Adapted: First Impressions Turns 35

Wednesday, February 18, 2026 • 1:00 pm ET 
Join us to celebrate 35 years of First Impressions programming. Designed to help communities see themselves through the eyes of a visitor, First Impressions has been freely shared and widely adapted for fostering local engagement, placemaking, and economic vitality. This webinar will explore the program’s history with University of Wisconsin; highlight the program’s adaptation and use with Kansas State and Iowa State Universities; and discuss how its principles continue to inspire new approaches to community improvement.

February Registration 

Scott County Extension Pilots a New Intergenerational Program

Submitted by Brandi Pettey
Virginia Cooperative Extension 

In 2025, Scott County Extension office received $2,400 from Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) and $1,750 Anthem HealthKeepers Plus to facilitate a new intergenerational program in the community. By using the Shared Site Intergenerational Program model, this program aimed to build community capacity and resilience through connection. Scott County Family and Consumer Science Extension agent, Brandi Pettey, and 4-H Extension agent, Kasey Fioramonti, partnered with Family, Career, and Communities of America (FCCLA) advisors in four schools (Gate City Middle/High School, Twin Springs High School, and Rye Cove High School) and Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc. (MEOC) to cultivate cross-generational opportunities between youth and older adults.

During August and September 2025, FCCLA advisors selected a class to receive training in one of the following subjects: Nutrition and Heart Health, Cooking Together, Digital Citizenship, and Exercise and Mindfulness. Once trained, students had two weeks to develop the content into a workshop for older adults. After two weeks, youth led the workshop with the older adults at the Scott County MEOC Senior Connection Site while also sharing a meal and conversations. Students gained 20 hours of community service and leadership experience; older adults gained knowledge and resources in multiple subjects. In addition to FCCLA and MEOC’s partnership, Special Agent Travis Howard from the Virginia State Police, High Tech Crimes Division, and Tina Hayes, a certified Forest Therapist Guide and extensive Yoga therapy instructor, partnered with Extension to assist with training students. Additionally, the culinary classes at the Scott County Career and Technical Center gained workforce skills by catering meals for the older adults and students for each workshop session.

The program served 124 students, 14 older adults and involved nine community partners. One educator stated, “This program is incredible. Everybody benefits: the students, the senior citizens, the teachers, and those putting it together, because we’re seeing such interaction that we may never have seen if we hadn’t planned this program… this program is a must, and I would be the first to sign up and say yes anytime they need my help. Plus my kids absolutely loved it. They had a blast!” Another community partner remarked, “Ultimately, this program strengthened the community that all the participants share, opening the door to a more inclusive societal structure where all generations are respected and their voices are valued.”

Evaluations from program participants revealed the most enjoyed activities were sharing a meal and spending time together. 100% of participants stated they enjoyed the program and 99% stated they would like to do a similar program again. A student from the program remarked, “These types of activities should occur more often, especially with other schools and communities.” An older adult from the program stated, “I’m learning that the children are eager to learn and open to new ideas – also, when encouraged, have some very interesting ideas.” Another older adult stated, “It was enjoyable, especially the cooking challenge. Also being respected as a senior citizen and respecting and talking to the younger generation.”

Upon completion of this pilot, Scott County Extension agents received national recognition, Program of Merit, from Generations United. Generations United annually recognizes outstanding intergenerational programs that are connecting younger and older people in the United States; the Program of Merit recipients are recognized as being richly diverse, effective programs. Generations United states, “As a recognized Program of Distinction or Program of Merit, recipients represent the highest standards of intergenerational programs and will become a part of a distinguished national network of programs.” Generations United explains, “Intergenerational programs are defined here as programs, policies, and practices that increase cooperation, interaction, and exchange between people of different generations, allowing them to share their talents and resources, and support each other in relationships that benefit both the individuals and their community.” Information on Generations United can be found at www.gu.org.

“We could not have earned this distinguished national honor without the many community partners involved in making this pilot a success. We have an abundance of individuals with open hearts and minds in our region who say yes to innovative and creative ideas and go above and beyond to showcase the best in southwest Virginia. I am beyond thankful to all of them and look forward to how this will grow in the future,” states Brandi Pettey.

“The collaborative effort of this program shows strength in the Scott County community,” Kasey Fioramonti remarks. “I was thoroughly impressed with the leadership efforts of the students and was equally moved by the amount of care the older adults showed the students. I am grateful for our community accepting this new opportunity with open arms.”

Scott County Extension plans to continue this program during the 2026- 2027 academic year with the desire to eventually expand into neighboring counties and additional MEOC Senior Connection Sites. If you are interested in partnering with VCE on future projects or collaborations specific to this project, please contact Kasey Fioramonti (276-452-2772) or Brandi Pettey (276-393-4050).

Scott County Cooperative Extension offers a comprehensive collection of resources, programs, and services that are research-proven, accessible, and contain actionable information to support the success and resilience of individuals and communities. Follow us on Facebook to stay current on the latest programs at VCE-Scott County.

Nominate Outstanding Work for NACDEP Awards - Deadline Feb. 17

Submitted by Eric Walcott
Michigan State University Extension

Hi, I’m Eric Walcott with Michigan State University Extension and chair of NACDEP’s Recognition Committee. I’ve been a NACDEP member for almost 10 years, and I love the awards process because I get to learn about so much amazing work NACDEP members are doing. The awards process is a chance to highlight the impact you and your team are making in your communities and a way to share ideas and inspire colleagues across the country. Every year, I learn about innovative projects through nominations, and it sparks new approaches I can bring back to my state.

Now is the time to recognize and celebrate the great work happening across Cooperative Extension! Nominations for NACDEP Awards are being accepted now through February 17, 2025. But don’t wait, nominate yourself or a colleague today and skip the last-minute scramble to get your submission in! 

Award descriptions and application procedures are available at: https://www.nacdep.net/awards  

Why nominate?

• Recognition: Showcase your impact and gain well-deserved acknowledgment.
• Inspiration: Share your work so others can learn from your success.
• Innovation: Every year, award-winning programs spark new ideas across Extension.

Whether it's you or your talented colleagues who are making a difference in Cooperative Extension, now is the time to start thinking about recognizing and celebrating the great work happening across the country. 

Check out this video for a quick overview of how to submit your award nomination and visit nacdep.net/awards to get started! Nominations are due by 11:59 PM Eastern Time on February 17. 

 Let's celebrate excellence, innovation, and dedication in our field. Your participation is key to honoring the outstanding work happening across Extension programs. 

 Click here to nominate yourself or a colleague for a NACDEP Award!  

 WVSU EDC/PPA Youth Podcast Workshop

Submitted by Zach Labin
West Virginia State University

This past fall, the West Virginia State University Economic Development Center (WVSU EDC) partnered with the Positive People Association (PPA) to host an exciting 6-week podcasting workshop for middle and high school students aged 11-18. Starting on October 13, students gathered every Monday and Thursday at the WVSU EDC, immersing themselves in the dynamic world of podcasting.

Under the guidance of PPA Founder Norm Branch, six enthusiastic students embarked on a journey that introduced them to the essential skills of podcasting. They learned everything from scripting their ideas and recording interviews to editing content and publishing episodes. Throughout the workshop, participants worked on enhancing their communication skills, engaging in public speaking and interviewing exercises that bolstered their confidence and sharpened their ability to connect with an audience. By the end of the program, each student had produced a unique podcast episode showcasing their creativity and personal perspectives.

“Workshops like these provide young people in West Virginia with valuable opportunities to enhance their public speaking abilities and become more comfortable producing podcasts and other types of videos,” said participant Hannah Fields. 

The workshop was more than just a learning experience; it became a vibrant and creative space where students connected, forging a supportive community of aspiring podcasters. They collaborated on projects and shared ideas, enriching the experience for everyone involved.

Following the enthusiastic response to the workshop, additional sessions are being planned to introduce participants to podcasting and offer new opportunities for creative expression.

Honoring a Legacy of Leadership: A Farewell to Charlie French

Submitted by Scott Slattery
Northeast Regional Rep

After more than 25 years of dedicated service to the University of New Hampshire (UNH) and the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals (NACDEP), we are bidding a bittersweet farewell to Dr. Charlie French. As he transitions to his new role as Chief Community Development Officer at the Island Institute, we take a moment to reflect on the immense impact he has left on our organization and the communities of the Northeast.

A Pillar of NACDEP Leadership

Charlie has been a cornerstone of NACDEP since the organization's early years. His commitment to the profession of Extension community development has been evident through decades of service:

• Regional Advocacy: From 2007 - 2011, Charlie served as the Northeast Regional Representative, ensuring that the unique challenges and innovations of our region were represented on the national stage.
• Organizational Growth: As a longtime member of the Board and Executive Committee, he was instrumental in shaping the bylaws, communications (including the Newsbites newsletter), and strategic direction of the association.
• The Portsmouth Vision: Charlie was the driving force behind the 2020 National Conference. While the world shifted to a virtual format, his leadership in organizing the program and serving as a keynote speaker provided a sense of continuity and inspiration during a period of global uncertainty.

Transforming Communities at UNH

At UNH Cooperative Extension, Charlie’s work became the gold standard for how land-grant universities can empower local economies. Since joining the team in 2009, his portfolio of accomplishments has been nothing short of transformative:

• Leading the Charge: As the Program Team Leader for Community and Economic Development (CED), he managed a team of specialists dedicated to downtown revitalization, tourism development, and local governance.
• Digital Equity Champion: Most recently, Charlie led the development of New Hampshire’s five-year digital equity and broadband access plan, a monumental effort to bridge the digital divide for thousands of residents.
• Academic Excellence: His role as faculty at the Carsey School of Public Policy allowed him to mentor the next generation of leaders, bridging the gap between academic research and on-the-ground community application.

A Heartfelt Thank You

Charlie’s colleagues often speak of his "quiet brilliance” his ability to listen deeply to community members and translate their needs into actionable programs. Whether he was volunteering in Panama or leading a national board meeting, his focus remained the same: helping people help themselves.

"Charlie didn't just teach community development; he lived it. His legacy is found in the vibrant downtowns of New Hampshire and the strengthened networks of Extension professionals across the country."

We wish Charlie the very best in his new chapter at the Island Institute. While he may be moving on to new horizons, the foundations he built at NACDEP and UNH will support our work for years to come.

Welcome Dr. Shannon Rogers to UNH Cooperative Extension

Submitted by Scott Slattery
Northeast Regional Rep

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Shannon Rogers as the new Team Leader for the Community and Economic Development (CED) Program at the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension.

Dr. Rogers brings to this role a strong record of achievement at the University of New Hampshire over the past 9 years. Through her work at UNH, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to community-engaged scholarship, applied research, and Extension programming that strengthens local economies and supports inclusive, equitable community development. Her contributions have helped bridge research and practice, foster meaningful partnerships across the state, and elevate UNH’s role as a trusted resource for communities navigating change.

As Team Leader, Dr. Rogers will build on this foundation by guiding the CED Program’s vision and strategy, supporting Extension educators and staff, and advancing collaborative work with municipalities, nonprofits, businesses, and residents throughout New Hampshire. Her leadership will help ensure that UNH Cooperative Extension continues to deliver practical, research-based resources that reduce barriers to participation and expand opportunities for all communities.

Prior to her appointment at UNH. Dr. Rogers was an Assistant Professor at Plymouth State University teaching Environmental Science & Policy and an Ecological Economist at the Center for the Environment as well as a visiting scholar at Dartmouth College for 4 years.

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Rogers to her new role. We look forward to the continued impact of her leadership and to the next chapter of the Community and Economic Development Program under her guidance.

WRDC Associate Director Position

Submitted by Paul Lewin, PhD
Director, Western Rural Development Center
Professor, Dept. Agricultural Economics & Rural Sociology
University of Idaho Boise Center

The Western Rural Development Center (WRDC) is seeking an Associate Director who serves as a senior leader responsible for designing, managing, and independently leading a highly specialized and multifaceted research and Extension program. The WRDC, established under the Rural Development Act of 1972, is a collaborative partnership between the USDA and the University of Idaho, funded primarily by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. As one of four regional centers nationwide, WRDC works with land-grant universities across the Western region to conduct research and deliver educational outreach programs. The Associate Director serves as a key leader in advancing the WRDC's mission by supporting day-to-day operations, promoting collaborative multistate initiatives, and driving integrated research and outreach efforts across the western United States.

This role combines advanced scientific expertise with strategic and administrative oversight. The Associate Director leads the work of junior research and Extension scientists, postdoctoral fellows, and professional staff, establishing priorities, performance standards, and accountability systems. The position ensures that scientific findings are translated into practical, evidence-based applications that strengthen rural communities and inform policy and practice. The Associate Director maintains an independent research and Extension portfolio while collaborating closely with the WRDC Director and institutional partners to guide programmatic initiatives and facilitate integrated teams spanning research, education, and Extension functions.

You can find the full position description here: https://wrdc.uidaho.edu/job-announcements/ for your reference.

The Ohio State University Extension Releases Book on the Appalachian Byway of Ohio

By Gwynn Stewart, MS, OhioCED

A brand-new guide that features sites along the Appalachian Byway of Ohio, the 105-mile scenic route through the Ohio foothills of the Appalachian Mountains was released by The Ohio State University Extension publishing.

Authors include Gwynn Stewart, MS, OhioCED, an assistant professor of community development for Extension based in Noble County serving as Vice-Chair of the National Extension Tourism Design Team and Chair of the Ohio Byway Links Association, as well as the Noble County Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator, Christine Gelley, MS, who supported the Farms and Barns That Dot the Landscape chapter.

The Ohio scenic byway makes its way across southeastern Ohio – from Athens County, through Morgan and Noble counties to eastern Monroe County where it connects with The Ohio River Scenic Byway (state route 7). The book features sites along and near the byway, primarily state route 78 but also state route 284, including historic theaters, the Miner’s Memorial Park with the Big Muskie Bucket, America’s first oil well (in Caldwell), The Wilds (one of the world’s largest conservation centers with open-range landscapes) and a variety of unique museums and restaurants. 

This publication is available at extensionpubs.osu.edu (SKU 701 – retail $22.75). Ohio residents get the best price when they order and pick up their purchase through local Extension offices. In addition to the guide, you can learn more about the Appalachian Byway of Ohio at go.osu.edu/abo or at www.facebook.com/AppalachianBywayofOhio. 

Interested in learning more about how America’s Scenic Byways Boost the Tourism Sector? View the NET publication, Scenic Byways Boost the Tourism Sector, that examines the role that scenic byways play in the U.S. tourism sector and how Extension can support them. The publication was written by NET Design Team Member Gwynn Stewart of The Ohio State University Extension. This is one in a series of publications produced with support from the Extension Foundation, via a New Technologies for Ag Extension grant.

See the America’s Scenic Byways Boost the Tourism Sector publication at: https://extensiontourism.net/wp-content/uploads/NET-Scenic-Byways-Case-Statement.Web_.pdf

Member Services Committee Update

Submitted by co-chairs Nicole Walker and Kimberly Edmonds

As a member of NACDEP, you're part of a vibrant community of community development professionals, and the Member Services Committee is working to enhance your member experience.

The Member Services Committee is dedicated to extending benefits to members that enhance your overall experience and help you get the most out of being an active member of the association. We're always looking for ways to support our members, whether you're attending the annual conference or engaging with us throughout the year. 

As part of the annual conference experience, Member Services hosts two special programs: the Conference Buddy Program and First-Timers Orientation. These programs are designed to help new members and first-time attendees connect with others, get acquainted with our association's leadership, and make the most of your conference experience. Also, Member Service manages conference scholarship applications and communication. Be on the lookout for details on these programs when you register for the conference!

But our work doesn't stop at the conference. We're committed to providing benefits and support to our members year-round, and we want to hear from you! What kinds of benefits and services would be most helpful and useful to you as a member? Are there particular resources, networking opportunities, and initiatives that you'd like to see us offer? We're open to your ideas and feedback, and we invite you to share your thoughts with us.

If you're interested in getting involved with the Member Services Committee or learning more about our work, we meet on the first Friday of each month at 10 am Eastern time. You can also reach out to Nicole ([email protected]) or Kim ([email protected]) for more information or to sit in on a meeting. We’ll see you soon!