Writer: Kay Ledbetter, 806-677-5608, skledbetter@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Janna Smith, 806-623-5552, jsmith@ag.tamu.edu
BRYAN – Janna Smith, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service office manager in Dickens County, has received the Superior Service Award in the office support-county category from the agency.
Superior Service Awards recognize AgriLife Extension faculty and staff members who provide outstanding performance in AgriLife Extension education or other outstanding service to the organization and to Texans. The award was presented Jan. 12 during the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Conference awards dinner at the Brazos Expo Center in Bryan.
Over the past 26 years, Smith has not only worked as office manager, but has been an outstanding 4-H volunteer and dedicated employee, according to her nomination. As the office manager, she ensures smooth sailing for AgriLife Extension agents, committee members, project leaders and 4-H families.
She played a major role in the creation and growth of the annual Dickens County 4-H Horse Club Play Days, which have grown to be a huge series of events, the nomination stated. She has also been instrumental in the production of the annual Western Rolling Plains Chemical Conference for nearly 10 years.
The nomination also said she organizes and produces agendas and educational materials for 4-H meetings every month. She and her children are alumni of the Dickens County 4-H, and now her grandchildren are members.
Over the years, Smith has seen new agents come and go and served under a variety of AgriLife Extension logos and name changes.
“She has demonstrated dedication to AgriLife Extension’s mission by serving as a role model and tireless supporter of many young agents starting out in Dickens County,” said Dickens County Judge Kevin Brendle in a letter of support. “Most importantly, Janna’s time spent outside of office hours teaching, mentoring, planning and preparing for 4-H events has earned the admiration of many young families who wish to emulate her service to the county.”
Smith received the Dickens County 4-H Silver Spur award and the Friend of the Dickens County Junior Livestock Show award. She and her husband Wayne received the Salute to Excellence for their outstanding volunteer duties.
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