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Thoughts from Jackie

Friends,

The last few weeks have been very exciting and full of wonderful partnerships and things to celebrate. We were able to participate in a new partnership visit with approximately 25 leaders from all over the globe with Intel at the Hartford County Fair. The goal was to allow an opportunity for Intel representatives to meet our youth and learn about their 4-H experience and for Intel to share details about employment opportunities at its new facility, and the training or educational pathways that will be needed for those interested in those positions. Many thanks go out to the Licking County team and youth and the Hartford Fair for a very successful introduction to what I imagine will be a very mutually beneficial relationship in the years ahead.

The "Lean in" Tour led me through Medina and Lorain counties last week. I had the great pleasure of meeting our new Medina County commissioner, Colleen Swedyk, and helping our camp counselors put together materials for camp (I had an unexpected visit with my niece, who will be volunteering for all three camps this year). In Lorain, we hosted some county economic development leaders and shared many highlights of Extension’s focus and reach in building vital communities and growing leaders of tomorrow. I learned a great deal about the growth of each county’s programs since I was there last (pre-COVID); and I can honestly say these visits are very refueling and quite inspiring.

tour photo 1tour photo 2tour photo 3tour photo 4

Our urban Extension team was in Camden, New Jersey recently; and our community development professionals were in Indianapolis this week. It is clear that Ohio is a valued partner in co-creating communities where all Ohioans can live, work, and play. Next week, our ANR professionals meet in Troy, Ohio for their annual retreat entitled “TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More.” And 4-H will be hosting its 4-H SPARK EXPO (EXploring Pathway Opportunities) for youth to explore college and career pathways and meet with many of our CFAES colleagues.

baby - father's handIn the coming days, we also will be celebrating Father’s Day (June 19). Thank you to all of our fathers and grandfathers in Extension for making a difference in the lives of your families, while making a difference in our communities. (photo via freeimages.com)

We also commemorate Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”), Juneteenth imagewhich honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday. (image available via freepik.com)

Have an excellent weekend; and thank you for being you and bringing your skills and passion to Extension!

Grateful, Jackie