2009 Year of the Agent Publication

From the Vice President & Dean for Extension and Agriculture:
According to most dictionaries, an agent is “a person authorized to act on behalf of another.” Utah State University Extension agents act on behalf of Utah State University and the national land-grant university system. Similar to a “secret agent,” Extension agents are inquisitive and innovative, and they investigate emerging issues that affect the lives of Utah citizens.

However, far from working undercover, Extension agents are active in the communities where they are assigned. They become “agents of change” who solve problems and connect their communities to the science-based information and resources Utah State University and the national Extension system have to offer.
In recognition of the critical role our agents play in the Utah State University Extension organization, we have designated 2009 as the “Year of the Agent.” To that end, this publication will give you a better picture of the breadth and depth of our Extension agents.

Our Extension agents and campus faculty support economic development, land-use planning, home-based businesses, community leadership, 4-H and youth programming and sustainable practices that all contribute to maintaining Utah’s high quality of life. Utah State University Extension provides the tools and expertise communities need to shape their futures.

Extension is unique in structure and function. Because of its partnership with federal, state and local governments and its network of county offices and state universities, Utah State University Extension efficiently delivers educational programs at the grassroots level throughout the state and nation.

In sum, the talented people highlighted in this publication help extend Utah State University to Utah’s citizens. We love our Extension agents!

Noelle E. Cockett
Vice President & Dean for
Extension and Agriculture