2025 JCEP Public Issues Leadership Development Conference Scholarship Recipient Reflections

Michelle Altman, South Carolina    
I was honored to attend the annual Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP) Public Issues Leadership Development (PILD) Conference.  The conference opened with impactful remarks from Dr. Jaye Hamby of USDA-NIFA, who emphasized Extension's role as a trusted source of information. Dr. Doug Steele of the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) delivered an inspiring presentation titled Navigating the Rapids: Effective Leadership During Times of Change. I had the privilege of delivering an Ignite presentation alongside my Clemson Cooperative Extension colleague, Jevencia Hill, where we shared insights on social media's critical role in connecting with key policymakers and stakeholders. On the second day, we met with our professional organization, NEAFCS, for a valuable networking session focused on our national impact. We also participated in an informative session on Congressional Visit Best Practices, led by Ali Mitchell Dunigan of the Northeast Extension Directors, Dr. Bill Hoffman of the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy, and Christina Laridean of Lewis-Burke Associates, LLC. The summit concluded with a memorable visit to Capitol Hill, where our South Carolina delegation engaged with members of Congress and their staff. Thanks to the preparation provided by JCEP-PILD, we approached these meetings with confidence and purpose. I am sincerely grateful to NEAFCS for sponsoring me with a scholarship to attend this enriching conference. I highly encourage all NEAFCS members to consider participating. This is an invaluable opportunity to connect with fellow Extension professionals and advocate for our shared mission.

Georgeanne Cook, Georgia 
PILD was a wonderful experience for this first timer at the Conference.  Before coming, everyone I spoke to who had come to the PILD in previous years stated it was one of their favorites.  I now can state and share with others that PILD Conference is one of my favorites.  Each keynote speaker had valuable lessons and information to share to help us succeed in our mission to visit with our Leaders and support our missions in Extension.  Meeting fellow Extension Agents from across the US had valuable programs that had made positive change to share. A few I would like to develop in my own State. Ignite Sessions taught me new ways of thinking about meeting challenges and overcoming obstacles. So, in developing and enhancing my leadership skills through PILD Conference, I learned that in your community, at whatever scale you define it, needs to focus on enhancing one skill set, one capacity, one competency to help ensure going forward successfully, choose adaptability. Adaptability will help me flourish in the face of uncertainty and change, for whatever forms that system takes. Adaptability in uncertain times is a must.

Jennifer Duhon, Louisiana   
This conference was a highlight of my extension career. I enjoyed meeting agents from other states and program areas. Capitol Hill visits were exciting and motivational. Our congress people value extension and all that we do. I also enjoyed our organizational breakout session.

Jenna Dyckman, Utah             
The 2025 JCEP PILD Conference was an amazing experience that deepened my understanding of Extension operations. This reflection highlights a few key takeaways that impacted me and that I plan to implement in my Extension career. Dr. Jaye Hamby emphasized the importance of Extension professionals being a trusted source of knowledge transfer. In today's world of information overload, our work must be relevant and evidence-based to maintain credibility. Dr. Doug Steele encouraged us to think beyond daily tasks and focus on the future. He shared four strategies for navigating the 'white waters' of our jobs: optimism, hope, helping others, and making an impact. Success, he explained, comes from having a purpose-driven vision. Vonda Richardson provided valuable insight into the history of Extension and the structure of ECOP, which helped me better understand the national scope of our work. I also attended the NEAFCS Association Meeting. It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, discuss state-level challenges, and share strategies for improving the collection of impact statements. One quote from the conference resonated deeply with me: to be a great Extension employee, we need to love what we do, serve others, and show up. There were some great sessions on how to speak with our state representatives, which really helped me when I went to meet with their staff on the third day of the conference.  I gained so much from this experience and am grateful for the opportunity to attend. Thank you again for the scholarship support!

James Keys, Ohio       
Attending the Public Issues Leadership Development (PILD) Conference in Washington, D.C., was an inspiring and enriching experience. From the moment I arrived, I appreciated the well-organized tour that offered a great introduction to the area and the history surrounding our nation’s capital. The tour set a positive tone and helped me quickly connect with fellow participants. One of the highlights of the conference was the excellent networking opportunities. I met professionals from across the country who are passionate about community engagement and public issues. The presentations and table discussions provided valuable insights, allowing me to hear a wide range of perspectives and strategies that I can apply in my own work. The association meetings were also very informative, offering a deeper understanding of leadership practices and national trends impacting Extension and community development.  The capitol hill visits were eye opening and engaging as we were able to meet with the staff of senators and congressmen to share more about our universities and the work we are doing in Extension.  Another aspect that stood out was the food. Meals in the conference and within the hotel were not only delicious but also provided additional chances to engage in meaningful conversations in a relaxed setting. Sharing meals with others enhanced the sense of camaraderie and collaboration that was present throughout the conference. Overall, the PILD Conference was an outstanding experience that strengthened my leadership skills, broadened my network, and deepened my commitment to serving the public good. I am grateful for the opportunity to attend and look forward to applying what I have learned to better support my organization and community.

Brenda Miller, Oklahoma      
I very much enjoyed PILD and gained knowledge from the fantastic speakers.  It was so nice to meet Dr. Jaye Hamby, the Director of USDA-NIFA.  He seemed very down-to-earth and approachable.  It feels comforting to have him in this position in this time of so many changes. The most meaningful speakers were Dr. Doug Steele, Dr. Brent Hales, and Dr. Lupita Fabregas.  I felt the first two shared useful and timely information.  Dr. Fabregas is a past co-worker, but her story was very inspiring with the struggles and success that she has had on the path to becoming an Extension administrator.  The Ignite sessions were very interesting and useful.  My favorites were: A County Director's Role in Advocating, Building Bridges with Culturally Strong Communities, Addressing Heirs Property, and Community Perceptions of SNAP. The Congressional Visit Panel shared important and useful information.  And of course, the visits to Capitol Hill!  Not only having state FCS Success Stories, but also NEAFCS stories were helpful in telling our FCS story.  We were able to meet with staff in two senators' offices and four representatives.  I learned so much this last week and wish I had been able to attend PILD earlier in my career.

Mary Morris, North Carolina
My JCEP PILD Conference experience started with the Twilight Monument Tour of the Nation’s Capitol. I highly encourage any first timer to take advantage of this experience. On day 1 of the conference, we learned about the cooperative extension system, structure, and funding. We had opening remarks from Dr. Richardson from Florida A &M University. Networking with other University professionals and Extension from across program areas was amazing. The ignite sessions were great and informative. On Day 2, we pulled it all together, learning about elevating your extension story. We heard from more extension professionals and House and Senate staff about conveying our story to legislators. Tips we learned were to create trust, bring up an issue, and make them the hero. Overall, the JCEP PILD Conference was a great experience, and I am fortunate that I was able to go and learn more about giving Extension and FCS a voice.

Lisa Peterson, Illinois              
On April 7-9, 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Public Issues Leadership Development Conference in Crystal City, Virginia. This national event brought together Extension professionals from across the country to explore how federal policies and funding, especially through the Farm Bill, impact land-grant universities and Cooperative Extension. The sessions provided eye-opening insights into how Extension supports federal priorities like tariffs and public health. Whether it’s helping families manage finances, supporting farmers in adding value to their crops or preventing chronic disease through nutrition education, Extension's work is vital and far-reaching. One standout session focused on collaborating with tribal nations, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect, shared leadership, and honoring traditions, which are key takeaways for building authentic partnerships. This experience strengthened my confidence in advocating for Extension's value. During Hill visits, I met with seven Illinois legislative staffers to share the impact of Family and Consumer Sciences work locally and nationally using NEAFCS Impact Statements. Conversations ranged from food safety to the Food is Medicine initiative, showcasing how Extension supports healthier communities. This conference was not only informative but also energizing. I highly recommend it to any FCS professional who wants to better understand Extension's federal connection and amplify the voice of our impactful work.

Tonya Poncik, Texas  
Attending the 2025 Public Issues Leadership Development (PILD) Conference was an incredible experience that provided inspiration, connection, and a deeper understanding of the work we do through Extension. One of the highlights was the opportunity to meet and network with peers from across the nation. Sharing ideas, best practices, and challenges reminded me that while our communities may be different, our passion and purpose are the same. Hearing directly from USDA-NIFA was eye-opening, and Dr. Doug Steele's keynote, "Navigating the Rapids: Effective Leadership During Times of Change," left a lasting impact. His insights on adaptive leadership, resilience, and the importance of intentional communication were both timely and motivating. Ms. Vonda Richardson also provided a powerful and clear explanation of the Cooperative Extension Service, reinforcing the value of our work in creating positive, research-based impacts in communities. A special highlight was the opportunity to visit with Phil Durst, JCEP President, and engage in meaningful conversations about professional growth and collaboration. Sharing our success stories with legislators on Capitol Hill was both empowering and validating-our voices matter, and our stories reflect real outcomes. Exploring our Nation's Capital, walking through historic landmarks, and especially visiting Capitol Hill, was both humbling and energizing. The 4-H reception was a beautiful reminder of why we do what we do -supporting youth, fostering leadership, and building brighter futures. This experience has recharged my commitment to Extension work and left me with lasting memories and renewed purpose.

Jamie Rathbun, Kansas         
The Public Issues Leadership Development conference taught me some great ways to advocate for Extension at the local, state, and federal level. When advocating for our profession it is important to share numbers, but we also must put context to the content. Tell the story about what our programs have been able to do for people's lives. And share that there is a tremendous return on their investment in what we provide to communities. We also must help stakeholders understand that there is no other system like Extension in the world, so we are the people poised to do this work. We are changing lives, we have impact, and we make a difference. As FCS educators it is easy to become busy doing the work, but we must take the time to share our stories too. Thank you to NEAFCS for the opportunity to attend the PILD conference.

Roseanne Scammahorn, Mississippi           
Reflections as a First-Time PILD Participant Participating in PILD for the first time was an enriching experience that reinforced key values central to Cooperative Extension. One of the most important lessons I learned was the power of hope. Even amidst change and uncertainty, Cooperative Extension continues to make a meaningful impact -improving lives and strengthening communities.  I also learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. Remaining calm, focused, and mission-driven allows us to continue doing great work, even when faced with obstacles. Setbacks can be valuable learning opportunities, and leaning on our networks for support and guidance is vital during challenging times.  Above all, this experience reminded me of the importance of leading with purpose and vision. As we strive to "make the best better," we must remain grounded in the foundational principles of our profession: delivering accessible, research-based education, conducting impactful research, and engaging with communities to address pressing societal needs.