New Leadership for Extension

A Message from the Associate Dean

Over the last three weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet with Extension staff in small groups, at team programs, and at regional meetings. I have asked what is working well, what can be improved, and what are some new opportunities to consider. It has been exciting to learn about our many successful programs and new audiences being reached. State Conference offers another opportunity to come together as an organization to learn new skills, enhance collaborations, and celebrate 100 years of Extension. I look forward to seeing you all next week.

I also want to introduce a new colleague on campus with research, teaching, and Extension responsibilities. Jonathan Coppess recently joined the faculty as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Law and Policy in the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics. Previously, he served as Chief Counsel of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry for Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow. Prior to joining the Ag Committee, he was Administrator of the Farm Service Agency at USDA. Jonathan grew up on his family's corn and soybean farm in Western Ohio and practiced law in Chicago before moving to Washington to work on agriculture policy. He earned his Bachelor's from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and his Juris Doctor from The George Washington University Law School in Washington, DC. Please join me in welcoming Jonathon to Extension. 


Sincerely,
George F. Czapar, Associate Dean and Director
Office of Extension and Outreach

For those who would like to access the rest of FYI number 6 for 2013, here is the link: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/fyi/