Superior Service Awards honor outstanding AgriLife Extension employees
Exceptional dedication and service recognized
Faculty and staff of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, gathered from across the state, received the agency’s Superior Service Awards during a ceremony July 31 in Bryan-College Station.
The Superior Service Awards are the highest recognition given to AgriLife Extension employees in honor of their exemplary service and programming.
“Service is the heart of AgriLife Extension and our land-grant mission,” said Rick Avery, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension director, Bryan-College Station. “We celebrate these individuals because they represent the best of our exceptional agency and exemplify the dedication to education and service.”
![a large room is filled with hundreds of people at the annual Superior Service awards banquet](https://agrilifetoday.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240730_Ext_Sup_MM_186-Enhanced-NR.jpg)
In addition to the Superior Service Awards, the agency’s Rising Stars and Distinguished Agents were recognized at the ceremony. The Rising Star honor recognizes new employees for exemplary work within their first three years. The Distinguished Agent title is limited to Level IV agents with at least 20 years with the agency and five years at Level IV.
All recipients are with AgriLife Extension unless otherwise indicated. The categories and names of individuals receiving Superior Service Awards are:
County Extension Agent, Early Career awards
Cody Trimble, agriculture and natural resources agent, Glasscock County. Throughout his six-year tenure as an agent in Glasscock County, Trimble has positively impacted youth development programs and agricultural initiatives throughout the county. He has demonstrated unwavering dedication to service and a strong pursuit of excellence throughout his career. He has been recognized for his exceptional ability to foster strong relationships with stakeholders, commissioners, parents and youth. Trimble has successfully launched numerous programs that have significantly benefited farmers and ranchers in the region. He exhibits outstanding leadership and constant commitment to serving others in Glasscock County.
Becky Coward, 4-H and youth development agent, Coryell County. For more than five years, Coward has been dedicated to fostering extensive leadership and educational opportunities for families in Coryell County. Central to her efforts is her commitment to educating the county’s youth about agriculture, leading to the establishment and growth of various agricultural educational programs. Through implementing these programs, she has successfully heightened awareness of the agriculture industry among Coryell County residents. Coward’s impact extends further through empowering the 30-member Coryell County 4-H Ambassador team, enabling them to lead effectively in various capacities.
KC Jones, family and community health agent, Knox County. Over the past three years, Jones has spearheaded numerous impactful programs and has consistently showcased exemplary performance. Among the successful initiatives she has coordinated are the Health Rocks Program, College and Career Fair Day and the Walk Across Texas event. Jones actively engaged in community outreach to ensure these programs left a lasting impact on county residents. Additionally, she has taken on roles such as chairing the College and Career Day and the Rolling Plains Rural Health Coalition, further demonstrating her dedication to enhancing opportunities and driving positive change throughout Knox County and AgriLife Extension.
Shelley Franklin, agriculture and natural resources agent, Williamson County. During her five-year tenure, Franklin has provided residents with exceptional educational, service and leadership opportunities. She has recruited and empowered over 250 volunteers through the Master Naturalist Program and Williamson County 4-H Program. Franklin plays a pivotal role as the primary adviser for the Texas Master Naturalist Program and collaborates with the Good Water Master Naturalists on community conservation initiatives. She also successfully launched programming to support new small landowners in Williamson County. Her commitment to Williamson County 4-H is exemplary and consistently exceeds expectations to meet the needs of every student.
County Extension Agent, Mid-Career awards
Ronda White, family and community health agent, Scurry County. White has significantly impacted her community and AgriLife Extension over nine years. She has consistently empowered the Family and Community Health Program Area Committee and the Scurry County Texas Extension Education Association Club. Through her vision and leadership, White has successfully implemented programs to enhance the health and wellness of adults and youth countywide. The Scurry County 4-H Club has seen a remarkable 151% increase in enrollment during her tenure, reflecting her ongoing commitment to enriching the lives of young people. Her dedication to the agency and families of Scurry County has made a profoundly positive impact.
Brittany Martin, family and community health agent, Collin County. Martin embarked on her AgriLife Extension career in 2015 in Dallas County. For the past three years, she has served in Collin County. Her impactful program implementations, effective partnerships and outstanding leadership have positively transformed families in both Dallas and Collin counties. Throughout her career, Martin has played integral roles on national, state, regional and district-level committees. Her steadfast commitment and innovative approaches have notably elevated the quality of life for program participants in Collin County, and her influence and contributions have resonated across the wider metroplex areas, enriching AgriLife Extension’s capacity.
Joel Redus, family and community health agent, Angelina County. Redus exemplifies unwavering dedication to community service through his leadership in health education programs. Under his guidance, AgriLife Extension has emerged as a cornerstone of health education in Angelina County, providing resources and guidance to residents. He established the family and community health committee to strategize, execute and evaluate program initiatives. Redus also actively participates in various committees throughout Angelina County, all aimed at advancing community health initiatives. His efforts have created a respected and trusted source of health information, leaving a lasting impact on the well-being of individuals throughout the community.
County Administrative Support: Early Career awards
Brittany Jones, 4-H program assistant, Chambers County. Over the past five years, Jones has been a cornerstone of AgriLife Extension’s office in Chambers County. She consistently surpasses expectations to ensure the success of crucial community programs and demonstrates an unwavering dedication to the agency. Jones is known for her versatility, seamlessly stepping into various roles and excelling in collaboration with the Program Area Committee to develop new initiatives that cater to Chambers County’s evolving needs. Her commitment to family and community health and 4-H youth development programs is particularly commendable, as she has embraced her role and achieved remarkable success within these areas.
County Administrative Support: Mid-Career award
Misty Fuqua, office manager, Brown County. Fuqua has been an integral member of the AgriLife Extension team in Brown County for the past nine years. She promotes the program through innovative digital media strategies and consistently goes the extra mile to enhance its visibility. Her commitment to advancing her expertise in 4-H is evident through her active participation in summits and invaluable support with validation and stock show entries. Fuqua also dedicates herself to empowering her peers in District 7 through educational presentations that optimize workplace efficiency. Her selfless dedication exemplifies the core values of AgriLife Extension and is a service to all she encounters.
District/State Administrative Support: Early Career award
Rose Boehnke, business administrator II, Family and Community Health. Boehnke provides indispensable support to faculty and staff throughout her department. Her administrative abilities and steadfast commitment to the unit’s human resources operations are pivotal to its growth and success. As external funding has fueled significant expansion in recent years, Boehnke’s extensive experience has played a crucial role in maintaining operational smoothness. Over the past five years, she has shouldered additional responsibilities. Her remarkable efforts and dedication have been instrumental in the successful implementation of programs critical to the mission of AgriLife Extension.
District/State Administrative Support: Mid-Career award
Shannon Hines, business administrator I, Healthy South Texas. Hines plays a pivotal role at Healthy South Texas as a dedicated business administrator. Supporting a team of 49 staff members, she has effectively managed over $19 million in state funds. She demonstrates her commitment to her colleagues by ensuring they have the necessary equipment and overseeing inventory management. Thanks to Hines’ efforts, numerous recipe booklets and youth curriculum resources have been successfully distributed. She has been instrumental in supporting Healthy South Texas business functions since the program’s inception. As the programming has evolved, Hines has consistently supported agents, specialists and administrators to achieve the program’s mission.
Program Support award
Delia Hernandez, nutrition education associate, Better Living for Texans, Brazoria County. Hernandez has devoted 19 years to AgriLife Extension. She is known for her engaging, informative and enthusiastic approach to helping individuals make healthier choices through her participation in the Brazoria County Health and Hunger Coalition. She also collaborates with nonprofits and the community to tackle health challenges in the county. In 2023, she spearheaded the launch of a new curriculum aimed at reducing food waste. Most recently, Hernandez has been instrumental in implementing the Growing and Nurturing Healthy Communities program with Warrior’s Refuge, receiving support from the Brazoria County Master Gardeners.
Program Specialist awards
Andy Crocker, senior program specialist-gerontology and health, Family and Community Health, Amarillo. Crocker is known for his exceptional teaching prowess, having educated approximately 63,000 individuals. He is a trailblazer in health literacy, crafting curriculums and designing training programs that address critical needs among older adults. Crocker has distinguished himself as a leader within the Master Wellness Volunteer program and as a key collaborator in OneOp Lifespan Caregiving initiatives benefiting military families. His development of the Master of Memory lesson series has proven invaluable in assisting individuals dealing with memory challenges. Crocker’s commitment to excellence in these domains is a shining example of the agency’s service.
Nikki Boutwell, program specialist and Veterinary Science Certificate Program coordinator, Department of Animal Science. Since starting, Boutwell has extended the program’s influence. In 2022, she obtained a Texas Education Agency Industry-Based Certification, which allowed her to assemble a highly committed team and renew the program’s vigor. She also garnered a U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant targeting 11th- and 12th-grade students who lack access to agriculture education in veterinary science, and a USDA Agriculture and Food Research Initiative grant to fund the ONE HERD Symposium over the next four years, providing more education, resources and materials to veterinary science educators.
Extension Specialist, Early Career award
Ken Obasa, Ph.D., pathologist and assistant professor, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, Amarillo. Obasa serves as director at the Texas High Plains Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. In this pivotal capacity, he collaborates closely with the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Cooperative Agriculture Pest Survey. Together, they monitor high-risk disease pathogens affecting wheat and corn in the Texas Panhandle and South Plains region, ensuring proactive disease management and agricultural security. Obasa has also demonstrated initiative by developing the Texas High Plains Horticulture Program, an online educational platform. He is a well-respected professional, continually seeking new opportunities to expand and enhance his program.
Program Specialist, Mid-Career award
Joshua McGinty, Ph.D., agronomist and assistant professor, Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Corpus Christi. McGinty is a cornerstone for agricultural producers across South Texas. His profound expertise in crop management has shaped the region’s agricultural landscape. Through extensive involvement in training, surveys, publications and presentations, McGinty has significantly advanced agronomic knowledge through applied research. His leadership in weed management and forage practices is pivotal, showcasing a collaborative approach as he educates and expands his own expertise. McGinty’s ability to address the annual challenges that affect South Texas crops serves area producers well.
Volunteerism, Individual award
Liz Espie, family and community health agent, Dallas County. Espie is making significant strides in health education across Dallas County through the recruitment, training and management of Master Wellness Volunteers. This train-the-trainer model allows Espie to foster effective partnerships in an urban environment. She focuses on promoting health literacy, affordable healthy meal preparation, and targeting areas most affected by chronic diseases. Under her leadership, volunteers are trained to deliver, in both English and Spanish, evidence-based programs such as Dinner Tonight, Cooking Well for Healthy Blood Pressure and Cooking Well with Diabetes. These programs empower residents to make informed food choices, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Volunteerism, Team award
Welcome to the Real World Volunteer Team: County agents Bill Holcombe, agriculture and natural resources, Clay County; Maranda Revell, family and community health, Archer County; Cindy Dunkerley, 4-H coordinator, Clay County; Alinda Cox, family and community health, Jack County; Penny Berend, 4-H coordinator, family and community health, Young County; Joy Self, 4-H coordinator, family and community health, Baylor County; Katrena Mitchell, 4-H and youth development, Wichita County; Sumer Russell, family and community health, Stephens County; Kelli Brown, family and community health, Haskell County; Karly West, 4-H and youth development, Wise County; and Jason Johnson, Ph.D., associate professor and economist-management, Stephenville. The Welcome to the Real World program is a simulation designed to teach middle school and high school students the skills needed to financially navigate the adult world. Since 2016, the team in District 3 has grown from one or two counties to districtwide with a program that offers support and engagement across county lines and uses 888 volunteers throughout the district. Youth participants learn to make lifestyle and spending choices like those adults face. The simulation shows them how to pay taxes, determine a savings amount, make a student loan payment — if applicable — and spend their salary based on their community’s prices. The team is committed to educating Texas youth about financial responsibility.
Serving All Texans, Individual award
Sumer Russell, family and community health agent, Stephens County. Russell exemplifies a servant leader and is dedicated to supporting youth from all walks of life. Through her diligent efforts and collaboration with the local school administration, she successfully established a program to cater specifically to youth who may not be aware of the opportunities offered through 4-H. This initiative provides snacks, engaging activities and educational materials to nurture future leaders. By providing a safe environment for these students to flourish, the 4-H program grew from 76 members to 154. Russell’s innovative teaching methods have significantly enriched the program, creating a profound impact on the participating youth.
Serving All Texans, Team award
Norman Borlaug Youth in Agriculture Program Team: Billy Zanolini, Ph.D., specialist and associate professor; Dottie Goebel, Ph.D., agricultural learning strategies specialist and assistant professor; Julie Gardner, Ph.D., program specialist III; and Kelley Ranly, program specialist I, all in 4-H Youth Development; David Wright, county director and urban program director, Harris County; Matt Nichols, Thomas Ranch program manager, Research Directors Office; Kevin Skow, geospatial analyst III, Natural Resources Institute; Katherine Hamilton, Imagine Science regional program coordinator, Harris County; Steven Frederick, agriculture and natural resources agent, Harris County; and David Smith, program specialist III, Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. The Norman Borlaug Youth in Agriculture Program is designed to help youth understand their potential and their impact on the future of our country and world. Students learn firsthand about the needs of urban and rural communities of Texas and the critical role food and fiber play. In addition, they learn valuable civic, social and leadership skills. Annually, 50 students from across Texas converge for a multifaceted, hands-on educational experience. Students create projects impacting their communities and future generations while growing as leaders and forging meaningful connections.
Teams awards
Healthy Texas Team: Rusty Hohlt, Ph.D., director; Luisa Colin, program specialist I; David Leal, program specialist; Elaine Montemayor-Gonzalez, program specialist; Erica Reyes, program specialist II; Julie Tijerina, program specialist; Amy Valdez, program specialist II; and Carissa Wilhelm, program specialist, all with Healthy Texas. The Healthy Texas program plays a pivotal role in supporting 27 counties within Healthy South Texas. Their innovative curriculum, resources and strategies are widely adopted statewide for their effectiveness in promoting healthy lifestyles. Notable achievements include the development of initiatives such as the Healthy South Texas Youth Ambassador program, the State of County Healthy Reports, and the widely recognized Healthy School Recognized Campus designation. Through these initiatives, AgriLife Extension has secured over $19 million in funding, facilitating more than 173,080 registrations, enrollments or program participations, demonstrating their significant impact on community health and well-being.
Tri-County Dairy Committee: County agents Lonnie Jenschke, agriculture and natural resources, Erath County; Mike Berry, agriculture and natural resources, Comanche County; and Bruce Boyd, agriculture and natural resources, Hamilton County; and Jennifer Spencer, Ph.D., dairy specialist and assistant professor, Department of Animal Science. The Texas dairy industry has surged over the last two decades. Erath, Comanche and Hamilton counties form a pivotal dairy hub, with combined milk sales of approximately $399 million in 2023. The Tri-County Dairy Committee was established to bolster support for local dairy producers and is dedicated to identifying and addressing their specific needs. Through proactive dairy outreach programs, targeted employee training, and a junior dairy consortium, the committee provides essential educational resources to industry professionals. These initiatives are pivotal in equipping producers and stakeholders with the requisite knowledge and tools to advance the dairy sector. Recognizing the importance of technological proficiency among employees, efforts are underway to educate young people about lucrative career opportunities within the dairy industry. Also, the committee addresses on-farm challenges by offering educational programs on responsible manure and nutrient management, focusing on preserving groundwater quality.
Texas Real Estate Team: Blake Bennett, Ph.D., economist and associate professor, Dallas; Tiffany Lashmet, J.D., agricultural law specialist and associate professor, Amarillo; Jason Johnson, Ph.D., management economist and associate professor, Stephenville, all in the Department of Agricultural Economics; and county agents Clint Perkins, agriculture and natural resources, Smith County; Steve Estes, agriculture and natural resources, Taylor County; and Jessica Humphrey, agriculture and natural resources, Red River County. AgriLife Extension education for limited-acreage landowners is a cornerstone program in Northeast Texas. These initiatives aim to educate a rapidly growing community of landowners with limited or no experience in agricultural production. Over the years, programs have reached 7,300 landowners, underscoring the critical need for such educational efforts. The Texas Real Estate Team is a fresh approach to engaging small-acreage landowners. Through their dedicated service, they educate and support Texas residents, fostering a brighter future for all.
Red Flour Beetle Team: David Kerns, Ph.D., associate department head and integrated pest management, IPM, coordinator, College Station; Pat Porter, Ph.D., entomologist and professor, Lubbock; Robert Puckett, Ph.D., entomologist and associate professor, College Station; and Janet Hurley, statewide school IPM program specialist, Dallas, all in the Department of Entomology; Michael Clawson, district administrator, Lubbock; and Kerry Siders, IPM agent, Hockley and Cochran counties. In August 2023, the Department of Entomology took decisive action by assembling a team of AgriLife Extension professionals, known as the Red Flour Beetle Team, to address a severe outbreak of red flour beetles affecting residents of the Kaufman Addition in Levelland. Throughout 2023, homes in this neighborhood experienced exceptionally high infestations of red flour beetles, a common pest of stored grains and flour. This team filled the knowledge gap with compassion and scientific rigor, effectively assessing the situation, providing expert guidance to all stakeholders, and calming public concerns. Their approach is an example of the pivotal role AgriLife Extension can play in similar challenges statewide in Texas.
Ideal Team Player award
Tearney Woodruff, Ph.D., agricultural education specialist and assistant professor, Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications. Woodruff is instrumental in advancing the professional development of employees. Her introduction of awards and peer-to-peer recognition initiatives has significantly enhanced the workplace environment. Her leadership on various committees and initiatives has substantially improved employee experiences. She is dedicated to the support, care and success of everyone she encounters in the agency, as seen through her desire to create new initiatives, form collaborative partnerships, enhance existing programs and provide one-on-one support to anyone in need.
Emerging Issues Individual award
R.J. Shelly, coastal and marine resources agent, Calhoun County. Shelly’s four and a half years of dedicated service have yielded significant contributions. Drawing upon three decades of experience with the Texas Department of State Health Services, he has expertly met the rising interest in oyster farming across the Coastal Bend region. His exceptional networking abilities have established strong relationships throughout the Gulf Coast, greatly enhancing the prosperity of numerous coastal communities. Shelly’s leadership in oyster mariculture has solidified his reputation as a key advocate for advancing the industry within Texas, spearheading various impactful programming initiatives.
Emerging Issues, Team award
The Texas A&M AgriLife Marketing and Communications Wildfire Team: Blair Fannin, media relations manager; Laura Muntean, media relations coordinator; Shelby Dittman, social media communications coordinator; Sam Craft, assistant director, visuals and multimedia; Courtney Sacco, multimedia project coordinator; Mary Leigh Meyer, associate director, communications, all of Bryan-College Station; and Kay Ledbetter, communications manager, Amarillo. When the largest wildfire in Texas history erupted in the Texas Panhandle, the communications team brought forth heartfelt stories and real-time photos, effectively translating the latest facts and educational resources for homeowners and ranch owners alike and facilitating the procurement of essential supplies. The team of media experts mobilized to provide news updates, media relations support and educational information to those affected by the wildfires at both the state and national levels. Around the clock, they actively pursued opportunities, promptly linking local, state and national media with AgriLife Extension experts statewide. Simultaneously, they maintained a continuous flow of information through websites and social media platforms to keep everyone informed.
Distinguished Career, Support Staff
Jennifer Steffek, office manager, Lavaca County. Steffek has provided invaluable continuity and support to agriculture and natural resources, family and community health, and 4-H and youth development programs for the past 24 years. Known as the welcoming and knowledgeable front-line face of the office, she ensures seamless operations through her exceptional management of scheduling, registration and sample testing. Her meticulous attention to detail is matched by her ability to empathize with and address the needs of the public, making her a pillar of support. Steffek’s extensive expertise in 4-H and family and community health strengthens youth engagement and connects community members with essential resources.
Distinguished Career, County Agent
Kim Miles, family and community health agent, Taylor County. Miles has devoted over 25 years to advancing the AgriLife Extension mission, cultivating profound relationships and partnerships throughout her community. She has significantly bolstered the county’s family and community health program’s prominence over the years. Her dedication is exemplified by initiatives like the Taste of Abilene event, which provides the community with recipes, samples and crucial program details. She also showcases the agency’s offerings at notable events such as the Town and Country Women’s Fair and the West Texas Fair Spotlight Kitchen event. Miles collaborates closely with the 4-H program, imparting her expertise to initiatives that promote family and community health. Her commitment extends to events like Food and Fiber Day, aiming to foster greater engagement in agriculture among young participants.
Distinguished Career, Extension Specialist
Bruce Carpenter, Ph.D., livestock specialist and professor, Department of Animal Science, Fort Stockton. Carpenter has dedicated 39 years of distinguished service to AgriLife Extension, embodying excellence, integrity and a strong commitment to the mission of the agency. He is renowned for his comprehensive beef cattle workshops that encompass all facets of the industry. He has been instrumental in pioneering the integrated toxic plant management program, aimed at reducing economic losses for livestock producers. Carpenter also plays a pivotal role in organizing the Southwest Beef Symposium, a cornerstone event educating producers on cutting-edge industry developments. His dedication to shaping the future of the beef industry extends to his educational efforts with young adults at the U.S. Beef Academy. His leadership and impact have earned him widespread recognition and respect throughout the agricultural community.
Distinguished Career, Middle Management
Donnie Montemayor, district administrator, District 11-Coastal Bend. With 37 years of service, Montemayor embodies a leadership style anchored in inspiration and progress. A cornerstone at the Coastal Bend District 11 Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center, he strategically sets goals to advance quality and drive professional development. Montemayor meticulously oversees every facet of AgriLife Extension interpretation, leveraging his mediation, conflict resolution and employee coaching skills to empower his team. Through his active participation in presentations, committees and peer panels, he fosters a culture of growth and ownership within the organization. Montemayor’s unwavering commitment to excellence has garnered widespread admiration, firmly establishing him as an exemplary leader in agency management.
Agency Leadership award
Larry Stein, Ph.D., horticulturist, professor and past associate head/program leader for the Department of Horticultural Sciences, Uvalde. From 2012 to 2024, Stein led the AgriLife Extension horticulture program as associate department head, continuously expanding and innovating agency initiatives. He has led multiple award-winning teams, and under his guidance, his unit has received prestigious service accolades. Stein is renowned for his motto, “Tell me how I can help,” which underscores his dedication to servant leadership and leading by example. He exemplifies these principles in his daily work, showing a profound passion for his field and a genuine care for people. Stein’s commitment to excellence and his unwavering advocacy for sustainable horticultural practices continue to inspire and empower those around him, making him a respected leader and mentor in the field.
Rising Star awards
2023 Rising Stars were:
– Madison Brake, family and community health agent, Hansford County.
– Derek Coffman, agriculture and natural resources agent, Scurry County.
– KC Jones, family and community health agent, Knox County.
– Chad Cummings, Ph.D., agriculture and natural resources agent, Grayson County.
– Brianna Howard Lugo, family and community health agent, Nacogdoches County.
– Luke Hendryx, agriculture and natural resources agent, Brewster and Jeff Davis counties.
– Sam Spradlin, agriculture and natural resources agent, Mason County.
– Hannah Hoffman, family and community health agent, Hood County.
– Matthew Pfeifer, 4-H and youth development agent, Brazos County.
– Elyse Hernandez, family and community health agent, Medina County.
– Emilee DeForest, 4-H and youth development agent, Calhoun County.
– Karen Cantu, Better Living for Texans agent, Hidalgo County.
– Leslie Dominguez, agriculture and natural resources agent, Zavala County.
– Audrey McCrary, program specialist, Texas Water Resources Institute.
– Laura Holt, training manager, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program.
– Jordan Baze, program coordinator II, Disaster Assistance and Recovery, DAR, unit.
2024 Rising Stars are:
– Racheal Oeleis, family and community health agent, Hutchinson County.
– Natalie Snowden, family and community health agent, Floyd County.
– Jessie Shortes, agriculture and natural resources agent, Stephens County.
– Sanci Hall, Better Living for Texans agent, Tarrant County.
– Makenzie Banks, family and community health agent, San Augustine County.
– Rebecca Taylor, family and community health agent, Crockett County.
– Chanie Schaffner, family and community health agent, Coleman County.
– April Strickland, Better Living for Texans agent, McLennan County.
– Zachary Giblin, urban youth development agent, Harris County.
– Kevin Knapick, 4-H and youth development agent, Bexar County.
– Marcie Kucera, health agent, Victoria County.
– Neida Martinez, family and community health agent, Starr County.
– Alexander Neal, program specialist, Texas Water Resources Institute.
– Shelby Espinosa, program coordinator, Department of Poultry AgriLife Extension Unit.
– Lindsey Breunig-Rodriguez, project manager, Better Living for Texans.
Distinguished County Agent designation
Receiving the Distinguished Agent designations were:
– Daphne Richards, Distinguished Agent-horticulture, Travis County.
– Robert Scott, Distinguished Agent-agriculture and natural resources, Lubbock County.
– Brian Triplett, Ph.D., Distinguished Agent-agriculture and natural resources, Bowie County.
Photos of award winners will be available in PhotoShelter after the event.