May 20, 2025
Thank You to Our Amazing Extension Office Professionals
This week, we proudly recognize and celebrate one of the most vital groups in our organization – our extension office professionals. These individuals are the first faces our communities see when they walk through the door, and they are often the voices on the phone, the keepers of our calendars, and the glue that holds our offices together. Their work is essential, their impact is lasting, and their dedication certainly does not go unnoticed.
Many of our local unit office professionals will be gathering in Manhattan this week to participate in a statewide professional development event. Traveling from all corners of Kansas, they will spend two days expanding their knowledge, strengthening their skills, and growing their network of colleagues.
Their time on campus will include engaging with regional and state leadership, touring new facilities, and participating in hands-on learning opportunities.
With topics ranging from customer service to marketing, Qualtrics, and financial operations, the training is designed to strengthen core competencies while fostering creativity and collaboration. Highlights include a tour of the Morgan Family Arena and an interactive workshop at the Sunderland Foundation Innovation Lab in Hale Library — all offering fresh inspiration and a chance to explore new ways to support our mission.
As spring ushers in a season of renewal, this gathering is a fitting opportunity to invest in the growth of those who help our local offices bloom. Thank you to our local unit extension leaders who value and support the ongoing development of these professionals. By making time for them to learn and connect, you’re cultivating a stronger, more resilient extension system for Kansas.
To every office professional — thank you. You represent K-State Research and Extension with professionalism, kindness, and a tireless work ethic. We hope this week is both rewarding and rejuvenating, and that it serves as a reminder of just how much you are valued.