Dean's Message
While attending a Beach Boys concert recently they played “Good Vibrations” one of their most notable songs. I think the words “I'm pickin' up good vibrations” describes well the feeling I get right now from what is going on at IANR and UNL Extension. I hope you feel the same way. A lot of great things are happening and it is an exciting time to be working at the University. There are real opportunities ahead to make a difference.
I'm pickin' up good vibrations from the dedication, talent and expertise that I see in the extension personnel that I have had the opportunity to interact with. I am impressed with how serious people take their jobs, and the passion and energy that people show in wanting to help Nebraskans. If you are picking up good vibrations this is good because happiness studies have concluded that optimism increases life satisfaction and in turn good health.
I'm pickin' up good vibrations knowing that Chuck Hibberd has agreed to come back to Nebraska to serve as Dean of UNL Extension. He has had the opportunity of working at two great land-grant universities and can now blend the best of what he learned at each to the benefit of his role as Dean. I know that Chuck is anxious to get started and to have the opportunity to meet and interact with every one of you. Let’s welcome Chuck back home and help him make the best extension program even better!
NACAA Recap
The National Association of County Agricultural Agents met recently in Charleston, South Carolina. Excellence by several current and past faculty were recognize at this year’s national conference. Tom Holman received NACAA’s Distinguished Service Award and Jessica Jones was recognized with the Achievement Award. Dave Stenberg’s distinguished career with UNL Extension was recognized with the Hall of Fame award, the fourth recipient from Nebraska.
NACAA’s Search for Excellence recognizes outstanding extension methods. UNL Extension efforts receiving recognition include
• “Nebraska Agricultural Water Management Network”, led by Gary Zoubek and Suat Irmak, was a National Finalists in the Crop Production category.
• Richardson County News Flash led by Lindsay Chichester was a national finalist in the Newsletter category.
Three faculty team posters were also recognized as Finalists in the Extension Education category:
• Gary Lesoing and team’s poster on training fruit and vegetable producers on food safety;
• Lindsay Chichester and team’s poster on youth animal science day camp received finalist recognition; and
• Brian Strauch and team’s poster on Husker Ag Smarts program.
Finally, Larry Howard, Gary Zoubek, and Tom Dorm continue to provide key leadership for NACAA. Larry is the Director of the North Central Region and Gary chairs the Professional Excellence Committee and Tom serves as regional chair for Search for Excellence committee.
We are proud of the excellence and leadership demonstrated by UNL Extension faculty.
-- Alan Moeller