iLead Cohort IV Assesses Needs Across the Division

by Mishanna Lanes, regional program associate - September 27, 2024

iLead Cohort IV convened for their second Zoom meeting, focusing on identifying the needs across the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture (UADA). The cohort split into two breakout rooms to brainstorm and discuss these needs.

Group Discussion One

1. Training and Resources for farm technicians lacking an in-house network.
2. Emergency/Disaster Assets for agents.
3. Comprehensive Onboarding for professors with split appointments.
4. Communications Network for food safety educators.
5. Community Engagement Program for extension agents.
6. Grant-Finding Strategies to increase funding for division programs.

Group Discussion Two

1. Division Structure Awareness
• Ali Ubeyitogullari, assistant professor, Food Science, highlighted that many people are confused about the division's structure, particularly regarding the UA System.
• Amy Simpson, county extension agent-staff chair, Clark County, suggested that agent subcommittees conduct an online survey to determine what programming is currently offered, as information isn’t effectively communicated through newsletters or Facebook.
2. Demonstration Guidelines
• Simpson noted that agents are required to conduct five demonstrations each year but lack clear guidelines on what these demonstrations should entail. A booklet of previous demonstrations could be beneficial.
3. Workday Navigation
• Andrea Price, video conferencing technician, expressed concerns about the complexity of Workday and proposed incorporating “Walk Me,” a browser extension that provides step-by-step guidance. She is coordinating with Chris Lee, Matt Brown, and others for the rollout.
4. Extension's Role in the Workforce
• Brandon Mathews, program associate - economic development, emphasized the need to clarify the role of extension in the workforce and adapt to meet state, federal and industry needs. They also discussed developing a podcast to highlight the integration of the Community, Professional and Economic Development unit with other UADA program areas.
5. Mobile Market Initiative
• Mishanna Lanes, regional program associate, proposed revamping parks and implementing a mobile market, particularly focusing on unsheltered events in West Memphis in collaboration with community corrections.

After reconvening, the cohort shared their ideas openly, fostering a collaborative spirit aimed at enhancing the division.

To learn more information about the iLEAD program, please reach out to Julie Robinson at jrobinson@uada.edu or Lisa Davis at ldavis@uada.edu.