Samantha Hardaway, Greene County youth coordinator, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Greene County, has received the Excellence in Partnership to Iowans award for the Southwest Area. The award was announced as part of the Southwest area County Services awards program Dec. 19.
The Excellence in Partnership to Iowans award recognizes county Extension staff who work with different public and private entities within the state of Iowa.
Award Criteria:
-Demonstrates meaningful interaction with Iowa-based public and/or private entities, including municipalities, counties, agencies, civic groups, commodity organizations, and/ or industries
-Assists entity or entities in understanding and benefiting from the mission of ISU Extension and Outreach
-Models a highly positive example of ISU Extension and Outreach in work with public and private entities
Hardaway has modeled a highly positive partnerships through her work with public and private entities.
Her collaboration with the Iowa Central Career Academy Greene County has provided youth with hands-on career exploration opportunities and exposed them to career paths. Agriculture, welding, computer science, education, culinary, health care, construction and business career camps were offered.
Through partnerships with local business owners, Greene County offered 19 project workshops for youth in 4-H. As a result, more than 200 projects were created by youth, nearly doubling the number of exhibits at the 2024 Greene County Fair. These workshops provided project area exploration while supporting local businesses.
Through these partnerships, Greene County Extension has fostered strong community ties and provided real-world learning experiences, supported local economies and enhanced community engagement.
ISU Extension and Outreach builds a strong Iowa by engaging all Iowans in research, education, and extension experiences to address current and emerging real-life challenges. Persons can learn more at www.extension.iastate.edu.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider. For the full non-discrimination statement or accommodation inquiries, go to www.extension.iastate.edu/diversity/ext.
