Bios
Learn more about the AECL Extension program leaders below.
Courtney Brown
Dr. Brown's programs focus is to enhance community engagement to foster sustainable growth in underserved communities, with a strong focus on supporting the African American community. Dr. Brown spotlights African American agricultural heritage while guiding these communities toward innovative approaches for advancement through agriculture. She formulates research-based strategies through direct engagement, youth development, and outreach initiatives to meet their unique needs and promote success in agricultural contexts. Dr. Brown's initiatives also encompass supporting action planning effectiveness, agricultural career exploration, and helping entities foster connections with diverse candidate pools to enhance outreach and opportunities.
Lauren Cline
As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and accredited KAI practitioner, Dr. Cline enjoys working with organizations to strengthen their ability to tackle tough challenges and lead in their communities. Another facet of her work also focuses on developing youth civic leadership capacity in rural, farm-dependent communities. Integral to all of her work, Dr. Cline is committed to fostering multicultural competency with leaders working in agricultural and rural spaces through inclusive leadership. Based on sound leadership, teaching, and learning research, Dr. Cline’s Extension work addresses the leadership needs of adults and youth in the state of Oklahoma.
Audrey King
Dr. King's unique approach seamlessly fuses academic expertise with practical solutions, bringing about transformative change. She is excited to guide communities to define their cultural identity through innovative community branding initiatives. Engaging in digital storytelling is another dimension of Dr. King’s work. She not only empowers individuals and businesses to share their narratives but also guides them in effectively marketing their uniqueness through compelling storytelling. Dr. King is committed to fostering digital literacy and community cohesion.