November 26, 2024
Shout Out: Pam Paulsen and the Reno County Master Gardener Volunteers
This week the Shout Out is from the Office of Engagement and Regional Community Visit core team; and is sent for Pam Paulsen, Reno County Extension Director and the master gardener volunteers in Reno County. The Regional Community Visit core team includes the Office of the President, Office of Engagement, Staley School of Leadership, Office of Recruitment and Admissions, K-State Research and Extension, and Division of Academic Success and Student Affairs. They write:
"We wanted to take a moment to express heartfelt congratulations and acknowledge Pam Paulsen, Reno County Extension director and horticulture agent, and the master gardener volunteers for their exceptional work in the Garden for Good program. Their dedication, expertise and passion have yielded life-changing impact, profoundly affecting the residents of the Hutchinson Correctional Facility. We had the opportunity to share their story during K-State's regional community visit and had the privilege to return for the graduation ceremony of their eight new members last week. Residents harvested 38,000+ lbs. of fresh produce and donated over 20,000 lbs. as well as monetary donations to non-profits and residents within Reno county. Residents continuously came up to share how grateful they were to Pam and her team because this program went way beyond just gardening... it was about the life-skills and friendships they were developing, the improvement of their mental health during tough times, and creating an 'appetite' of wanting to learn more and serve others. This truly is an extraordinary program.
It is visible to see the genuine impact Pam and the master gardeners are leaving. The Garden for Good program embodies K-State's mission and values, and for that we thank you."
Pam and the Reno County master gardener volunteers -- thanks for all you do for the people of Kansas, our colleagues and K-State Research and Extension.
If you know of a colleague or team of colleagues who deserve recognition for a job well done, why not nominate them for a Shout Out. Simply send their name(s) and the reason for the Shout Out to ksreshoutout@ksu.edu.
Shout Out submissions are published in the order they are received.