July 15, 2025
Be a Part of the Story, and Success, of our National Conference in Wichita!
When I first moved to Kansas, I learned that the state motto was “Ad astra per aspera”. I didn’t know what it meant, but I had just come from a state whose motto was “Dum spiro spero.” On day one, I already knew that I liked Kansas better, even though we’d left beautiful views and mild winters. The reason was that Kansas’ people are the most open-hearted, kind, and hardworking people that I would come to know and have the honor of serving. When I landed my job in Extension, about a week after moving to Manhattan, I learned that Ad astra per aspera meant “to the stars through difficulties.” Over the years this has resonated to me countless times, as I have witnessed how local Extension has assisted communities in navigating difficult situations and circumstances, their work becoming a part of amazing community successes.
As you may know, Kansas will proudly host the 2026 NACDEP (National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals) National Conference in Wichita (June 15 – 18, 2026) — a fantastic opportunity to showcase our state’s leadership in Extension work. In a matter of months, I will be back here in the Tuesday Letter, encouraging you to tell your story…but I not only want to invite you to submit a proposal to our national conference, I want the spirit of Kansas, meaning all of you, to be there to represent our amazing state, and meet the most amazing group of people who share paths similar to your own. They come from all program areas to meet communities where they are, help guide them to the stars through difficulties, and have amazing stories to share.
No matter your program area – your work contributes to making communities vibrant. We want the whole of Kansas Extension to get involved in planning the 2026 NACDEP conference. There’s a place for everyone — whether your strengths lie in logistics, programming, hospitality, or promotion. This is your chance to make a difference and help shape a memorable national event right here in Kansas!
If this opportunity strikes a chord with you, don’t hesitate to check out our conference planning committees via this Google Form: NACDEP 2026 Conference - Wichita Committee Interest
We’d love to make this conference a resounding success — with YOU!
We look forward to working with you – and THANK YOU for all you do to support Kansas communities!
Jaime Menon
Kansas Extension Community Vitality Specialist
President – National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals