Hi everyone,
The Lambda Chapter officers recently met, and there’s lots of exciting activity underway! I wanted to share some highlights and invite all members to attend our upcoming board meetings—whether to listen in or share your thoughts.
Welcome New Members!
I will reach out soon to set up a time to discuss what membership means. A warm welcome to:
- Kathryn Brignac, CCE Ulster – Livestock and Natural Resources Educator
- Stephany Quick, CCE Jefferson – Community Schools Coordinator
- Kelly Campbell, CCE Admin – Volunteer and Professional Development Specialist
- Laura Biasillo, CCE Broome – Agricultural Economic Development Specialist
- Jill VanAken, CCE Orange – Community Outreach and Special Events Coordinator
Key Updates & Announcements
? Professional Development
- Podcast Grant Approved! We’ve secured $1,000 to produce four episodes in 2025, featuring interviews with current and life members. Kelly Campbell will host, and we’ll brainstorm guests and questions via email. We are working on identifying potential guests – pls do reach out with suggestions.
- PILD Conference – https://www.jcep.org/pild Just a reminder that ESP members have opportunity for travel support when you attend Joint Council of Extension Professionals conferences (like PILD). If you’re a member of ESP, you’re a member of JCEP.
- National ESP Conference – Jackie & Celeste submitted proposals. Jackie also plans to apply for the first-timer scholarship. Details about that conference can be found here https://portal.espnational.org/2025-National-ESP-Conference
- Serviceberry Book Read – 79 people registered! The second discussion is on March 12, featuring author Robin Wall Kimmerer. Extension Book Club – The Serviceberry
- Upcoming Webinars & Opportunities
- Broome CCE has requested an ESP webinar to promote their Food Systems course—Michelle will reach out to Laura Biasillo.
- A State of Ag presentation with Judson Reid may also be of interest and could be cross connected to the Ag Association and an introduction of new Ag staff.
- Ideas for a Fall Book Read were discussed. More ideas are welcome.
- Charlie is also willing to lead a webinar on Extension Foundation resources.
? Professional Recognition
- Kim Fleming has stepped up as Recognition Chair! A team award application has been submitted for the Milk Bar at the State Fair (yes that is to recognize you Dan, Vicki, and Jacob and Heather as well).
- Looking ahead: Next year we’ll plan early for early, mid, and late career nominations. Celeste & Kim will start prepping in December.
Lots of great things happening! Feel free to reach out or join an upcoming board meeting (next meeting is 3/27 at 9am) to stay involved.
Best,
Celeste Carmichael
President, ESP Lambda Chapter
CCE Admin – Assistant Director for Program Development and Accountability