AgriLife Extension hires new agents and program specialists

Begley, of O’Donnell, earned her bachelor’s in agricultural communications from Texas Tech University. She spent the past three years as an agriculture science teacher at Stratford High School. Before that, she taught sixth-grade reading at Stratford Junior High School for seven years. Begley grew up showing pigs, sheep and steers. She also judged livestock. She said she is passionate about developing Sherman County youth into responsible, capable individuals through agricultural education. “Through education and outreach, I want to make agriculture meaningful and accessible, ensuring it remains a strong part of our future,” Begley said.

Benge, of Cedar Park, earned a bachelor’s in food science and human nutrition, with a concentration in dietetics and nutrition management from Colorado State University. After finishing her degree, she worked as a community nutrition educator and volunteer coordinator for a nonprofit, volunteer-based restaurant in Fort Collins, Colorado. Mia said she looks forward to a hands-on role in making research available and applicable for members of her community. “In this role, I hope to help those in my community feel educated and confident in making and maintaining healthy practices that will boost their well-being and longevity,” Benge said.

Bowen, of Cleveland, earned his bachelor’s in political science and psychology from Sam Houston State University. He had a well-rounded career in both secondary and middle school education prior to becoming a 4-H youth development agent for Prairie View A&M University’s Cooperative Extension Program in Liberty County in 2024. Bowen is committed to education, hands-on skill development, youth empowerment and the arts. AgriLife Extension, he said, lends the opportunity to strengthen the connection between education and real-world skills. “It’s a role that aligns with both my professional strengths and my personal values,” Bowen said.

Bryan, of Mathis, earned her bachelor’s in agricultural science from Texas A&M University and her master’s in biology from Stephen F. Austin State University. She spent the past 19 years as a teacher with Garrison Independent School District and the past 11 years as an adjunct professor at Panola College. Bryan said she is excited to work with the adults and youth of Live Oak County in the areas of nutrition, leadership and improved health. She hopes to help the youth reach their leadership potential through programs and skills that will influence their future and impact adults by educating them on healthy nutrition and promoting the Walk Across Texas program.

Chavez, of San Antonio, earned his bachelor’s in exercise sports science from Texas State University. He started working with youth through the nonprofit sector, which helped him secure employment as an assistant with AgriLife Extension on the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Bexar County. Chavez said he believes very strongly in uplifting his community. He hopes that through his new venture as an AgriLife Extension agent, he can grow with the program as well as help the youth of his community achieve their goals, ensuring their future with 4-H is prosperous while upholding the values of 4-H.

Handy, of Sinton, earned her bachelor’s and master’s in agricultural science from Texas A&M University-Kingsville. She has spent the last 12 years in the classroom as an agricultural science teacher. Handy grew up in the 4-H program in San Patricio County as well as the FFA program in Sinton. Learning to find her voice and confidence through the activities she participated in has enabled her to set her life goals. She said she is passionate about being a guide for youth to become the best version of themselves. Joining AgriLife Extension was a choice she made to have the chance to impact youth on a larger scale and to continue making an impact in her community.

Wilson, of Jasper, earned her bachelor’s in social work, sociology and community health, and a master’s in health promotion, all from Lamar University. She also holds a post-master’s certification in applied educational psychology–applied behavior analysis from Stephen F. Austin State University. Her behavioral and mental health experience spans diverse settings, including schools, clinics, in-home care, assisted living centers and community-based programs. “I am here to plant hope, nurture growth and help every person I encounter believe in their worth, their voice and their ability to thrive – because healthy communities begin with empowered hearts,” Wilson said.

Jordan, of Gatesville, earned his associate’s degree from Blinn College and his bachelor’s in animal science from Texas Tech University. After graduating, he spent the past three years as a Prairie View A&M Cooperative Extension agriculture and natural resources agent for Madison and Leon counties. During his tenure, he focused on helping local producers secure grants and enhance their pasture forage systems. Jordan grew up heavily involved in 4-H community service and leadership projects, showing cattle and swine as well as competing in livestock judging competitions. He said he can’t wait to work in Throckmorton County to give back to an organization that “gave so much to me.”

LeSenne, of Caldwell, Idaho, earned her bachelor’s in horticulture from Brigham Young University-Idaho and her master’s in horticulture from Texas Tech University. LeSenne previously served as a horticulture agent with the University of Arizona and taught horticulture and landscape technology at two Oregon community colleges. She also worked as a landscape designer, arborist, landscape maintenance supervisor and at a large wholesale nursery in production and sales. “I love to teach people skills they can use to improve their lives,” LeSenne said. “AgriLife Extension gives me the opportunity to meet so many great people and help them live happier, healthier lives.”

Lyssy, of Kosciusko, earned her bachelor’s in agricultural business from Sam Houston State University. Lyssy is returning to AgriLife Extension, having previously worked as the 4-H and youth development agent in Victoria County before working in the veterinary field. She has also spent the last 10 years helping manage her family’s ranch. Lyssy grew up in the 4-H and FFA programs and developed a love for the beef industry. She is passionate about continuing to share the impacts of agriculture with her community and family. “I hope I can bring education in the agriculture field to local producers and the community to help them strengthen their programs and enrich their lives.”

Matura, of Katy, earned his bachelor’s in animal science from Texas A&M. While there, he spent four years working for the equestrian team. Matura said he grew up with a passion for agriculture, adding it all started at a young age while bouncing around in the hay fields of a cab tractor with his dad. He is excited about extending his knowledge and lending a hand to the current and future generations of farmers and ranchers.

Pollock, of Grandview, earned her bachelor’s in agricultural communications from Sam Houston State University, her master’s in recreation, parks and tourism from Texas A&M, and is pursuing a doctorate in agricultural leadership, education and communications from Texas A&M. She has worked with AgriLife Extension since 2017, most recently as a project coordinator, and has experience in sustainability, mental health and wellness, nature education and food waste management. Pollock is passionate about helping families connect with the outdoors to support physical and mental wellness and cares about helping people find the resources they need to thrive.

Ripkowski, of Liberty, earned her bachelor’s in elementary education from Sam Houston State University and a master’s in school counseling from Lamar University. With over two decades of experience in education and special services, she has a strong commitment to student advocacy, inclusive education and leadership in special education services. Ripkowski said she looks forward to expanding access to services and resources that empower families, schools and students. “My passion lies in creating environments where the youth of our county feel seen, supported and inspired to become the next generation of leaders,” she said.

Rodriguez, of Clint, earned a bachelor’s in animal science from West Texas A&M University and a degree in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry from the Universidad Autónoma de Ciudad Juarez. She is passionate about livestock production and youth development. With a background rooted in both veterinary medicine and agriculture, Rodriguez said she is eager to engage with her local community and share her knowledge in a meaningful and accessible way. “I hope my work can help build confidence in the next generation and give them the tools to think critically, lead with purpose and believe in themselves.”

Smith, of Huntsville, earned her bachelor’s in health with a minor in business from Texas A&M and a master’s in public health from Sam Houston State University. She spent the past seven years working in various health education and promotion roles and on a state-funded program focused on child and maternal mental health. Smith participated in 4-H, showing commercial heifers and as a member of the food club. She is excited to work within the community where she grew up and have a direct impact. “Health and wellness are so important, and everything you do affects your social, mental and physical health,” Smith said. “I am excited to serve and educate my community.”

Turner, of Cleburne, earned her bachelor’s in food and nutrition from Texas Tech University and holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification from Purdue University. She has worked in community nutrition, and as an administrative and financial consultant. Turner participated in food and nutrition projects and livestock judging as a 4-Her in Wilbarger County, earning a Gold Star recognition and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship. She previously served as an intern with AgriLife Extension and said she is excited to return to the agency and teaching as she believes deeply in the mission to provide research-based solutions at the community level.

Utley, of Wichita Falls, earned her bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies with a focus in special education from Midwestern State University and a master’s in guidance and counseling from Angelo State University. For the past seven years, she has served as a school counselor, working with both college-bound and non-college-bound students. She has spent her entire teaching career in Wichita County, serving in both large and small districts. “The area of my work I feel most passionate about is equipping individuals and families with the knowledge and tools they need to live healthier, more empowered lives,” Utley said.

Wagner, of Odem, earned his bachelor’s in kinesiology with a minor in history and a master’s in education from Texas A&M-Kingsville. He plans to work toward a doctoral degree in educational leadership. He worked as a substitute teacher in the public schools of Corpus Christi and Calallen while pursuing his teaching certification. Wagner grew up in the 4-H system showing rabbits, chickens, pigs and steers, as well as participating in sewing, cooking and soil judging. He said he is excited to help the citizens of Nueces County become healthier eaters. “If we can change one person’s attitude about changing their lifestyle, then what we do will be successful,” Wagner said.

Zeringue, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, earned his bachelor’s in agriculture education from Texas A&M Commerce, now East Texas A&M University. Zeringue spent five years as an agriculture science teacher in school districts in Marshall, Hawkins and Saltillo, before working for the past eight years for a pest control company. He said he grew up on various cattle ranches across the country, from a feedlot in Kansas to ranches in Colorado and Oregon, which has allowed him to gain a wide range of knowledge in the agriculture field. “I want to share my passion for agriculture with the next generation,” he said.

Brown, of College Station, earned her bachelor’s in management from Texas A&M, her master’s in higher education administration from Florida State University, and her doctorate in educational administration from Texas A&M. Previously, she worked in higher education, supporting college students outside of the classroom via student organization administration, advising and programming initiatives. “I joined the employee development team in AgriLife Extension because I am passionate about helping people grow and develop,” Brown said. “Whether a brand new or seasoned professional, we all have ways we can grow to better serve our communities and make an impact.”

Ward, of Dallardsville, earned her bachelor’s in animal science and entomology, and a master’s in entomology from Texas A&M. She has over 10 years of experience in honeybee research, education and practical beekeeping. Ward strives to provide support for Texas beekeepers and develop educational opportunities for youth in beekeeping. in her role at the Texas A&M Honey Bee Lab manages the apiary and serves as an instructor for the Honey Bee Biology course. “I hope my work with AgriLife Extension serves to connect people to natural processes, agriculture and their community through the lens of honeybees and beekeeping,” she said.

Martinez, of Bogotá, Colombia, earned his bachelor’s in animal science from the National University of Colombia, and both his master’s and doctorate in biological sciences and genetics, respectively, from the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Previously, he was a postdoctoral fellow at Mississippi State University and a beekeeper for a commercial operation in Vermont. He has over 25 years of extensive experience in beekeeping. “I joined AgriLife Extension because I believe in the power of education and collaboration.” Martinez said. “I’m most passionate about working side by side with beekeepers, helping them improve colony health, queen quality, and overall productivity.”