2026 JCEP Extension Leadership Conference Scholarship Recipient Reflections

Troy Anderson, Maryland      
Attending the 2026 JCEP Conference in Savannah, Georgia, was an enriching and transformative experience that significantly contributed to both my personal and professional growth. The vibrant atmosphere and the chance to engage with fellow Extension professionals made it a memorable event. One of the most impactful sessions was "Visionary Leadership in Action: Applying the CELD Framework to Strengthen Extension Capacity" with Joel Burnsed. This session provided insightful strategies on enhancing leadership capabilities within the Extension sector, presenting the CELD Framework as a comprehensive tool to bolster organizational capacity and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Implementing these strategies in my role as an Extension Educator can significantly enhance program effectiveness and team dynamics. Another session that left a lasting impression was "The Power of Storytelling: Making Education Relevant, Applicable, and Engaging" by Catherine Sorenson, Lynn Matava, and Kelly Sipple. This session highlighted storytelling as a powerful educational tool, which can make complex information more relatable and engaging, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes. The conference was further enriched by the Capstone Speaker, Nick “Ranger Nick” Fuhrman, whose dynamic presentation underscored the impact of enthusiasm and passion in educational outreach using animals to present. Additionally, attending the NEAFCS association meeting and participating in the fun games organized by Regional Directors Lisa and Sheila fostered a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. These interactions provided valuable networking opportunities and reinforced the community spirit within the Extension network. Overall, the 2026 JCEP Conference offered invaluable insights and tools that I am eager to implement in my role, enhancing both personal and professional growth.

Meagen Brown, Tennessee  
Thank you for the opportunity to attend the JCEP Leadership Conference. I was excited to attend as I step into a state leadership role in 2026. I appreciate the smaller size of the conference and the opportunity to network with colleagues across the country. One of the most impactful things for me was the conversations and learning about extension in different states. I loved the keynote from Dr. Jaye Hamby, NIFA Director. I am sure I am partial because of the examples he used as a Tennessee native, but I feel his message was vital for extension professionals to hear.  I have been able to discuss this with my county office. Even though I am an FCS Agent, farm loss is dear to my heart and a concern in my county.  The most impactful professional tool I have taken away is education on A.I. Attending the general session plus break-out sessions has given me the “permission” to deep dive into a world that is frankly intimidating. It was a wonderful opportunity to be able to have discussions at my table during general session with those from other states. Every one of us had a different standard we were being held by. I was unclear on the policies I need to follow. I’ve not only been able to clear that up but also have become comfortable exploring how it can assist with my daily tasks. In addition, it was recently announced we are moving to a more inclusive AI model and I feel equipped to take it on because of attending.

Kate Chappell, Utah 
Attending my first JCEP conference was surprisingly eye opening. I had never attended a conference that targeted leadership development over programming, so the change in direction was both exciting and refreshing. I can utilize a lot more of what I was able to gather and learn in my home region because so many lessons can apply across more of my work at home.  The selected concurrent sessions were incredibly fun to attend, which always makes learning easier. Many were hands-on, which encouraged teamwork and meeting new people while we participated in learning a new skill or approach to leadership development.  I was able to build my network of professionals who also work in my field, learn valuable skills about gaining tenure from those that have been through the process, and new things to consider when sharing impacts and outcomes across many outlets. I plan to attend this conference many times in the future because I feel that it provides significant opportunities to learn and grow as an Extension professional both as a presenter and attendee.

Jennifer Duhon, Louisiana   
After attending PILD last year, I was looking forward to getting to learn more at JCEP. JCEP gave me an opportunity to meet leaders from other states and program areas. The conference was well planned and efficient. I really enjoyed the association meeting and dinner. This allowed for more direct conversations specific to our program areas, in a smaller setting. Our association meeting gave me more fire to get our state members more involved.

Allison Hillis, Indiana
JCEP ELC was a great experience for me this year. Some of session that I really resonated with were regarding rest. With this, I learned that there are several types of rest that individuals may need at different points. I am planning to have my office do a reflection on their type of stress and rest they may need.  I also attended a session about sabbatical thinking, which prompted me to consider how I can apply sabbatical thinking to my work and time.  General sessions were helpful as well.  I found personal connection to the NIFA Director’s presentation, specifically when he stated there needs to be support and focus to recruit young farmers. Ranger Nick's session was a great reminder to person first teaching and supporting others in developing to their full potential. The Extension panel for AI was fantastic for connecting with colleagues on the topic of AI, exploring how they use it, and also considering safe and ethic ways to use AI. The closing session was based on The Coffee Bean book and shared 10 ways that we can have be a positive leader (for myself and others).  The NEAFCS meeting was a good reminder that leadership is not always a sequential journey, and there are opportunities throughout the organization to lead. This conference afforded me the time to reflect and shared strategies that I can implement in my leadership journey.

Kyra Hutchinson, Alabama  
The Joint Council of Extension Professionals 2026 Extension Leadership Conference (ELC) was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of various leadership principles. Throughout the conference, I was immersed in practical strategies designed to enhance leadership effectiveness both personally and professionally. This year’s conference was especially meaningful, as it marked several “firsts”: my first visit to Savannah, Georgia; my first stay at The DeSoto Hotel; my first time attending the ELC; and my first time presenting at the conference. I don’t take any of these “firsts” lightly.  Beyond these milestones, the most impactful aspect of the conference was the opportunity to connect with Extension leaders from across the country who share a collective commitment to creating lasting community impact. Among the many engaging sessions I attended, those focused on effective communication and emotional intelligence presented by professionals from Ohio State University Extension were particularly memorable. I am always seeking ways to improve in these areas, and the insights gained during these sessions were immediately applicable. Since attending the conference, I have begun implementing several of the strategies discussed, such as recognizing that thoughts (whether facts or perceived) drive behaviors which drive results and learning to “Q-TIP” situations that may not immediately seem positive.  Overall, I’m grateful for all that I learned, the connections I made, and the opportunity to continue evolving as a leader. I sincerely appreciate the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS) for supporting this invaluable experience.

James Keys, Ohio       
Hello NEAFCS Board of Directors, Thank you for the scholarship to attend the Extension Leadership Conference (ELC). The conference was rich with educational content, networking, and professional development opportunities. It was also great to return to Savannah, even though Mother Nature had other plans.  The conference began with the Squares, Stories, and Sips tour, which was engaging and educational. The stories around the history of the squares sparked curiosity and encouraged deeper reflection, including discussions tied to historical narratives such as “40 acres and a mule.”  The morning keynote with the USDA NIFA Director was informative. While much of the discussion centered on agriculture, it was helpful to connect the research priority of Improving Human Health to Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS). The AI session was especially impactful, highlighting ethical use, current applications, and opportunities for AI to enhance program delivery.  Concurrent sessions were outstanding and highly engaging, particularly those on Neurodiversity, Belonging, Storytelling, Daring to Lead, Digital Accessibility, and People Skills. The 20-minute sessions could easily have been longer due to strong presenter engagement.  The keynote speakers were inspiring. Ranger Nick's message on leading with heart, character, and consistency resonated deeply. Tony’s “Coffee Bean” keynote was powerful, emphasizing leadership that transforms environments rather than hardens or weakens under pressure.  Finally, the food and service were excellent, with balanced and inclusive meal options throughout the conference.  Thank you again for this valuable opportunity.

Deon Littles, Maryland           
The JCEP Conference held in Savannah, Georgia was a highly engaging and informative experience that provided meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and professional growth. Throughout the conference, the theme “Visionary Leadership in a Connected World” was consistently showcased across the presentations I had the opportunity to attend. Each session highlighted the importance of adaptive leadership, collaboration, and innovation in addressing the evolving needs of communities in an increasingly interconnected environment. The depth and quality of the sessions were particularly impressive. Presenters shared practical strategies, research-based insights, and real-world examples that reinforced the relevance of visionary leadership across Extension and community education programs. The integration of technology, equity, and community engagement into session discussions underscored the necessity of forward-thinking leadership in today’s complex landscape. Additionally, the guest speakers over both days enriched the conference experience by offering diverse perspectives and inspiring messages that challenged attendees to think critically about their roles as leaders. Their expertise and storytelling brought theory into practice and emphasized the value of purpose-driven leadership grounded in service and collaboration. Overall, the conference was a rich and rewarding experience that fostered professional reflection, encouraged meaningful dialogue, and strengthened connections among peers. The knowledge gained and relationships built during the JCEP Conference will undoubtedly support continued growth and effectiveness in my professional work moving forward.

Katheryn Maloney, Colorado              
ELC was a valuable opportunity to connect with the NEAFCS, meet with Extension professionals from across the US, and learn from others working in this field. One thing I recognized is that our state was not well represented among the posters or concurrent sessions, which is an opportunity worth addressing for future years. I did find that the timeliness (of the topic addressed) and quality of the concurrent sessions varied. Some of the sessions were really valuable, such as the session on accessibility requirements. I found the frequency with which people discussed religion throughout the conference to be a bit surprising. Overall, I think the session on AI was important, though I struggled with the tone at times. It sounds like many states, including CO, are without policies in place regarding AI use, and I had the thought that it would be helpful for the Extension Foundation or another national entity to create some recommended guidelines, that states could adopt, amend, or draw from when creating their policies. Within the world of FCS, I think there is an opportunity for us to create some important programs addressing misinformation in the age of AI. The location was beautiful and the food was great, and I really enjoyed getting to connect with others from across NEAFCS and the Extension system.

Amanda Merchlewitz, Wisconsin    
I found the conference invigorating and insightful.  I enjoyed the variety of sessions that focused on different aspects of leadership.  This helps improve our own leadership skills as well as those of emerging leaders.  The variety of session that were available allowed participants to customize their experience to each person’s leadership path and circumstances.  Some of the sessions were very creative and unique and I enjoyed this variety.   I also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with association leadership outside of our association meetings and zooms.  This allowed for deeper relationships to develop and contributed to a deeper feeling of belonging within the association.

Mary Morris, North Carolina
This was my first time attending the JCEP ELC in Savannah GA. I really enjoyed this conference on Leadership. The speakers were impressive I especially liked Ranger Nick. The sessions I attended were relevant to my role in NCEAFCS and my job as a County Extension Director. I always take home new ideas for programs that I learn about at Extension Conferences. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this Conference and I look forward to next years.

Tonya Poncik, Texas  
Attending the 2026 JCEP Extension Leadership Conference was inspirational, and I loved the fellowship with other Extension professionals across the country. The conference was top-notch, featuring outstanding speakers, from Dr. Jaye Hamby, NIFA Director, to Tony McIntosh - Ten Leadership Principles I learned from a Coffee Bean. Now Ranger Nick could have left his snake back home, but learning to be an effective teacher is important. I was telling my Regional Program Leader here in Texas that I thought it was neat that the sessions I attended were based on a book. I told her it felt like I was at a book fair and wanted to order all the books because they are all related to our work in Extension. I am so happy that the conference covered the hot topic of artificial intelligence. Here in Texas, we have been experimenting with AI to see what we can use it for and better understand its potential role in Extension. In the future, if more session descriptions can be provided, it will help attendees ensure they attend sessions that are applicable to them.  I attended the “Applying Entrepreneurial Thinking to Your Work as an Extension Agent." The title led me to believe I would learn creative ways to market your fee-based program here in Texas, but unfortunately, it wasn't. It was still an excellent session, but I would have chosen one that was more applicable to me. I tell everyone here in Texas that the JCEP Extension Leadership Conference is highly recommended.

Victoria Presnal, Georgia      
I enjoyed attending the JCEP conference in Savannah. I was very excited once I seen the program brochure, and all the sessions that were going to be offered. I was really able to get great insight as a new leader and practical things that I can put in place immediately. I enjoyed the session on soft skills as a leader. I think it was beneficial to learn how to be a great leader in the world of Extension. I took away a lot of notes and was able to collaborate with outside state agents. Overall, it was very beneficial.

Chelsea Richmond, Kansas
Thank you NEAFCS for the scholarship to attend the JCEP Extension Leadership Conference in Savannah, GA.  As a first-time attendee, I found the conference to be a valuable experience that would benefit any Extension professional.  The conference sessions were relevant and timely and addressed topics that included preventing burnout, navigating difficult conversations, collaborating across generations, and exploring the potential impact AI may have on Extension work.  Each session provided practical strategies and meaningful resources that I will be able to apply in my work.  In addition to the educational sessions, I valued the opportunity to network and learn from fellow NEAFCS members as well as Extension colleagues from other professional associations.  I was definitely able to leave the conference with new tools in my professional toolbox that support both my personal and professional growth.  Thank you again NEAFCS for helping me to attend!

Renee Vines, Alabama           
JCEP 2026 was an excellent networking opportunity with leadership from many of the Extension professional development organizations across the US.  It was by far the best conference I have attended.  The sessions were informative, engaging, and I brought back nuggets to use in my daily work as an Extension professional.