July 12, 2022
4-H Update and Staff Transitions
We have several project and staffing updates to convey to the system. First, I want to welcome our newest NW Regional 4-H Specialist, Chandra Plate, who will be joining us August 1. Chandra comes to us from the University of Nebraska Extension system where she served as an Extension Educator in 4-H Youth Development in Brown, Keya Paha, Rock, Holt and Boyd counties. Prior to that, she also served as a 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent in our system as well as a 4-H mom and volunteer.
Several professionals have contracted with the state office to assist us with 4-H project areas and State Fair preparation and contests. Among these are some familiar names including: Deryl Waldren, Pam Van Horn and Diane Mack. Deryl will provide support for the Kansas State Fair Photography area and assist with the Kansas 4-H Wheat and International Exchange Programs. Pam Van Horn will support Kelsey Nordyke with Livestock and other needed areas. Diane Mack will continue working with the State Office and assist in Foundation of Youth Development training for new agents. I would like to also welcome Ray Bartholomew and Karen Riedmiller as temporary contract professionals. Ray will be leading Shooting Sports while Karen will work with the Dog project area. In addition, Robyn Trussel will be filling in and working with Visual Arts.
Extension Specialist, Shane Potter, has accepted a new position as the Assistant Vice President of Capacity Building at the Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. His last official day for the state office will be August 6, 2022. I would like to thank Shane for his service to Kansas 4-H and wish him well in his new position.