During challenging economic times it is imperative that Texas AgriLife Extension Service middle managers separate the things they can't control from the things they can control. One of the things Texas AgriLife Extension Service middle managers do control is the interpretation of programs to stakeholders and elected officials.
In Extension District 8, Mr. Ron Woolley-District Extension Administrator has implemented a series of interpretation teleconferences that are designed to more systematically implement on-going interpretation strategies. The goal of these teleconferences is to present a transparent but positive tone to the current budget situation facing Texas AgriLife Extension Service and try to direct anxiety of County Extension Agents to a proactive programmatic/interpretive focus. These teleconferences emphasizes that effective programming/interpreting can impact future decisions of county and state officials. Some of the specifics regarding these teleconferences are as follows;
- Respective agent teleconference groupings are by their respective state legislative district and are scheduled between March 29 - April 5.
- Teleconferences will reaffirm agency’s commitment to maintain personnel and programs as our highest priority. Also, to ensure that there will be "life after" this exercise. Discuss our record of commitment when faced with previous budgetary challenges.
- Remind agents of the importance of elected officials having direct knowledge of Extension programming, familiarity of all agents in their territory and the positive impact Extension is having on their constituents.
- Discuss previous successful interpretive efforts for county and state officials held in their county(s). Stress importance of directing attention to status of new challengers and emerging officials from recent primaries, upcoming runoffs and eventually the general election. Identify opportunities to effectively interpret and discuss "planning for success". Agents will understand this is the time to be proactive. NOTE: Each county will have a minimum expectation to have each official participate in at least one showcase activity in 2010.
- Develop tentative plans/strategy related to the Fall Interpretive Sessions for state officials. Goals will be to share program outcomes based on official’s interests/issues and discuss FY 2012-2013 Exceptional Items/Budget Proposals. Reinforce role of the District 8 Marketing & Interpretation Committee representative who serves as team captain for their respective State Representative or Senatorial District.
- Introduce two upcoming professional development opportunities related to Writing Effective Outcome Program Summaries and Politics 101. Politics 101 will feature topics related to role of County Coordinator, successful budget development and acquisition, working effectively with county officials, keys to success or failure related interpretation, involvement and recognition of Commissioners Court and State officials. Most topics will be presented by agents who have had success in assigned topics. Role of V.G. Young Institute and Central Texas County Commissioners Court Conference will also be highlighted.
All District Extension Administrators are encouraged to review this concept and implement similar strategies in order to redirect County Extension Agent's anxiety to a proactive interpretive focus. This and other types of approaches clearly demonstrates leadership and vision on the part of our middle managers.
Content for this article was provided by Ron Woolley, District Extension Administrator- Texas AgriLife Extension Service.
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