June 14, 2016
Questions. Those Tough Questions
Questions. Those Tough Questions.
We are facing tough financial times. Tight financial times bring on the occasional tough questions and out-of-box thinking:
• “There must be a better way.”
• “Why do we need…. ?”
• “Can’t we just…. ?”
These questions and others like them are good to ask. Asking such questions can lead to solutions that can improve our K-State Research and Extension.
But, as we encounter and even entertain such questions, it is imperative that we understand who we are and why. What does it mean to be Cooperative Extension? Can a county go it alone? Can Kansas State University go it alone? The simple answer to both is “No!”
We are a cooperative system, both in terms of what we value and as designed in federal and state law. To refresh our memories about our cooperative system, I’d encourage reading the Handbook for County Extension Councils and District Governing Bodies provided to every board member to learn more about why we function like we do. www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/pm1.pdf.
We have difficult and challenging issues facing us during these changing times. I encourage all of us to remain focused on our foundational principles, guidelines, and core values – no matter how challenging it may seem. While the times are tough, our core mission and purpose is as relevant today as it was when Cooperative Extension began in 1914. Cooperative Extension in Kansas will prevail and, once again, thrive!