OSU Extension Leadership Academy graduates gain tools to impact communities
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Media Contact: Gail Ellis | Editorial Communications Coordinator | 405-744-9152 | gail.ellis@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University Extension recognized graduates of its latest Leadership Academy class this month as they conclude the program’s meeting series and begin work on final projects.
The group of 17 OSU Extension county educators, district/area specialists and Community Nutrition Education Program coordinators kicked off the course in April. The program featured three overnight retreats, four webinars, practice exercises and group reports.
The following educators completed the OSU Extension Leadership Academy:
- Todd Branson, Canadian County
- Lori Goodbary, Oklahoma County
- Susan Holliday, Woods County
- Liana Jones, LeFlore County
- Courtney Keck, Canadian County
- Summer Leister, Payne County
- Amanda Lewis, Marshall/Johnston Counties
- Justin McDaniel, McClain County
- Lauren Minyard, Love County
- Megan Monteith, West District
- Randi Myers-Hill, Creek County
- Lisa Nicholson, Mayes County
- Jennifer Patterson, Adair County
- Laura Payne, Payne County
- Kelsey Ratcliff, Southeast District
- Casey Russell, Coal County
- Danielle Wells, Carter County
Graduates will participate in two leadership project follow-up meetings in 2025 for continued professional development and networking with the first class of graduates. They will also discuss project updates and how the program has improved their personal and professional lives.
“I have learned the benefit of delegating tasks and projects to others, and how to improve my communication skills,” said Justin McDaniel, agriculture educator and county Extension director for McClain County Extension. “I have also improved my ability to set priorities, make decisions and allocate resources.”
The Leadership Academy provides networking and collaboration opportunities for mid-career Extension professionals through discussion, practical application of lessons and projects, and team building. Participants learn personal leadership and self-management; interpersonal leadership and relationship building; decision-making, influence and big picture methodology to advance Extension; and how to foster ongoing professional growth among fellow aspiring leaders.
“My biggest takeaway from the Leadership Academy has been learning how to lead with both strategy and empathy,” said Liana Palmer, agriculture and 4-H educator for LeFlore County Extension. “This program has expanded my ability to approach challenges with a solution-focused mindset. I’ve learned how to bring people together, listen to different perspectives, and face challenges with a spirit of openness and collaboration. Through hands-on experience and collaboration with fellow leaders, I feel equipped to make a lasting impact in my community.”
Qualified candidates for the OSU Extension Leadership Academy must have three years of Extension experience, and participation is limited to 20 individuals.