PILD conference attended by Extension specialists

This annual conference is sponsored by the Joint Council of Extension Professionals and its focus is to keep Extension professionals abreast of the changing public issues that impact communities and therefore affect Extension programs.

The mission of PILD is “To provide leadership and advocacy skills to effect public issues.”

“While we were at the conference we had the opportunity to visit with Extension county and state staff from across the United States.  This allowed us to share our story with these county and state decision makers and listen to their stories in exchange. This exchange allowed us to gain knowledge about different associations across the country,” said Alan VanDeventer, Comanche County 4-H educator and Oklahoma Association of Extension 4-H Agents president-elect.

“We also gathered ideas on ways to expand programs within program areas and gained knowledge and enhanced skills needed to deliver quality, relevant programs at all levels.”

VanDeventer said he gained an understanding on how public policy is formed, which helps Extension professionals meet the needs of communities across the nation.

The objective of the conference was to broaden understanding of public policy issues that impact Extension and the community; enhance advocacy and public policy education skills; learn how the changing political environment affects support for Extension; build political support for Extension through consistent and targeted communication with decision-makers and collaborators; strengthen existing partnerships and explore new linkages; and visit with federal legislators and decision makers to observe the political process in action.

Those who attended the conference included VanDeventer, David Nowlin, Caddo County Extension agricultural educator and Oklahoma Association of Extension agricultural agents president elect, and Arleen James, Texas county family consumer science educator.

“The conference provided participants the opportunity to provide information to congress about issues concerning county and state Extension service,” VanDeventer said.

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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.