OPINION: On performance dialogues, and the thought that your job might actually be... fun!

As an executive director in extension, I get the privilege of working with beginning professionals as they take their first foray into education and outreach in our community.  It’s fall, and in my association, that means it’s time for annual performance dialogues. This is a reminder for me to check in with my team members about their accomplishments, growth, and insights about the past year.  I’m fascinated by how much they accomplish in a year. I love seeing my teammates grow in confidence in their educational skills as they explore the topics and concerns of their stakeholders.

This year, while listening to my team talk about their ideas, successes, misadventures, and challenges, I had a bit of a revelation myself, and an important reminder.  Doing extension work is FUN!  I get bogged down in the logistics of my own day-to-day work – risk management paperwork, purchase orders, evaluations, and reporting. Paperwork galore! And paperwork, while important, is often not fun. But when you boil it down, our job as extension professionals is to listen when our community has questions and then help them answer them.  And there are some amazing questions out there that lead to fascinating conversations and activities.  Just this week, my team members  worked on these doozies:

• helping hunters donate venison to food banks
• creating opportunities for sheep farmers to get together to grow a market for wool
• recognizing volunteers who make a difference in our community
• supporting communities in conversations about siting solar arrays

And there are always those entertaining questions that make me laugh, and the impacts that make me teary-eyed.  Like the neighbor who is upset a local animal control professional ‘stole their skunk,’ the concerned individual with a crumpled baggie full of mystery insects for us to examine that turned out to be… sand, or the touching story of a family that’s now able to have a warm home this winter due to a home energy program. Whether it’s silly, confusing, or sad, I’m so glad my team can be there with our community.

Every day as an extension professional, we get to meet wonderful people.  We hear about important issues. And we get the opportunity to use our knowledge to help the very people who live right by us, in our community, find the resources and expertise they need to make a difference. What a fantastic and incredible responsibility that is!  We take our hard-earned expertise gained through years of living – schooling, on-the-job training, experience, and research – and share it with others. And our job is to make it easy to digest and enjoyable to experience. As a supervisor, I try to let my team know it’s okay to have fun at events and activities.  After all, they picked their topic area for a reason, and if they’re having fun, others will, too! We should feel passionate about our topic areas and excited to share that enthusiasm with others.

So WOW! I am so very impressed by my team, by Extension, by the work that we’re able to do as a network to make life better for so many. Listening to my team’s performance reviews refreshes me and renews my own excitement and purpose in this career we share. And in that wow moment for a supervisor like me, I also realize that my new folks often feel like impostors in their new jobs. They don’t feel like they really own their titles yet – Master Gardeners coordinator, topical expert, program lead, extension educator.  They may not see their impacts clearly, or understand why their programs are successful… not yet. But I do. My job is to help them grow and learn, and I love that part of this job. The titles we carry sound so crucial that they bog us down. In the end, our job as an extension professional isn’t to be the be-all and know-it-all, pontificating from a great height on all the wisdom we own to the exclusion of others.  Blah blah blah, that would be so dull, and no one would want to attend that community program.

As extension professionals, we don’t know it all, we don’t always hit the mark, but we are here to share, grow, and learn. We are the boots-on-the-ground guides and community companions on the path of learning. We’re side by side with our neighbors, digging into the topics that matter right where we are. When we miss the mark or get it wrong, we own it. We laugh, we look confused, we say, ‘I don’t know, let me get back to you on that one.’ We examine what went awry and try, try again. As long as we share that path to knowledge – high-quality information, connecting our communities with the resources they need, and calling out to the University when we discover a knowledge gap that requires further research… we’re successfully fulfilling the mission that underlies each of our jobs. We’re helping people put knowledge to work.

Anyway, that’s my opinion. For what it’s worth, I’m one of the many extension supporters out there who’re rooting you on. I hope you have a fantastic performance dialogue with your supervisor. You’ve worked hard this year, and you’re going to grow even better at helping others. I’m so proud of you!

Please join Cornell Cooperative Extension staff Janice Degni (South Central NY Dairy and Field Crops Team) and Judson Reid (HarvestNY) for a Zoom presentation on ‘The State of Agriculture in NYS’ at 1:00 pm on Monday, 10/27/25.  They will touch on the 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture and what themes they’ve been seeing in their regional and statewide work.

An excellent presentation for those who work in agriculture and anyone curious about how this critical field is innovating and adapting in our ever-changing world.

To attend: https://cornell.zoom.us/j/94074792814?pwd=dWEhqChVq4hRsX7uZCzEtyimpbHMWQ.1&from=addon

 

Anyone else still feeling energized after attending the NYSACCE4-HE Conference at the beginning of the month? The Western District hosted a beautiful professional development experience at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel. The 4-H Ripple Effect – Leading with Vision and Lifting with Laughter was a fitting theme. To continue building on that energy, press play to hear the tale of two brothers, one of which we got to share the experience with! 

Rooted in 4-H- Tim & Tom Davis on Family, Leadership & Legacy.

In this latest episode of “Sowing Seeds, Growing Leaders,” we’re thrilled to bring you an inspiring conversation with two extension professionals whose lives have been intertwined with 4-H and Cooperative Extension from childhood to career. This episode is more than just a career discussion – it’s a heartwarming story of family, purpose, and the lasting impact of Extension work. Whether you’re a seasoned Extension professional or just starting your career, you’ll find valuable takeaways and inspiration in the Davis brothers’ shared wisdom.

Every story shared is a seed planted, nurturing the growth of future leaders and the evolution of our work. Enjoy! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rooted-in-4-h-tim-and-tom-davis-on-family-leadership/id1827288810?i=1000718695669

Thank you to everyone who participated in our recent professional development (PD) survey. Your thoughtful input provides valuable insight into the interests and learning needs of CCE staff across the system.

Top Interests:
The most frequently selected PD offerings reflect a strong desire for connection and practical learning. Program Development Experiences—including PDLC, Turning Good Ideas, and Monthly Topics—topped the list with 41% of respondents indicating interest. Campus-County Connection Webinars and In-the-Counties Training (custom workshops) were also highly rated, each drawing 41% interest. New Staff Orientation and Reporting Counts Webinars received moderate attention, while specialized series such as Risk Management and Volunteer Matters drew more targeted interest. Respondents also suggested a variety of “Other” topics, including grant writing, job skills, parenting and community connections, and administrative training.

Preferred Learning Formats:
Live, interactive learning is strongly favored, with 73% of respondents preferring Live Zoom sessions and nearly half (47%) indicating interest in in-person regional workshops. On-demand recordings (33%) and self-paced Workday Learning courses (20%) were also appreciated for their flexibility. A smaller yet important group expressed interest in one-on-one coaching or mentoring and written guides.

Requested Topics and Skills:
Respondents shared thoughtful suggestions for future topics, including:

• Technology tools (e.g., Canva, Excel, AI in daily work)

• Fund development and diversified funding strategies

• Staff mentoring and team development

• Agricultural content (e.g., sustainable agriculture)

• Marketing strategies and participant engagement

• Administrative support and management skills

• Facilitation techniques and communication strategies

Several responses reflected the realities of a demanding CCE work environment, with staff asking for support that meets them “where they are”—mid-career, balancing complex roles, and striving for impact in their communities.

This information can help us consider your needs and learning styles.  Don’t forget to check out the Menu of Staff Development Opportunities from CCE Org Dev, found here: https://cornell.box.com/s/t8ukcobgjhwojdyxfyol0c859nlw7z0d 

By Stephanie Graf, CCE Jefferson County

Grant writing can feel like navigating a winding road—full of sharp curves, unexpected bumps, and the occasional detour. But with the right mindset, strategies, and attention to detail, the process can become an opportunity for growth, collaboration, and impact. After more than twenty years of writing and winning grants at the local, state, and federal levels, I’ve learned that success comes down to preparation, persistence, and practice. Here are some tips and takeaways that might help you on your journey.

Think Competitively, Act Strategically

Every grant is a competition. You’re not only going up against organizations with similar missions but also experienced writers, consultants, and high volumes of applicants. What sets successful writers apart is their competitive mindset—paired with strong detail-oriented skills. Read every instruction carefully, answer every question (even if it feels repetitive), and never overlook the small details. More often than not, proposals are declined not because of the idea but because something was missed.

Know Your RFP Inside and Out

Whether it’s called a Request for Proposal (RFP), Request for Application (RFA), or Program Opportunity Notice (PON), the first step is the same: read the document thoroughly. Confirm eligibility, understand the timeline, and make notes about requirements, deadlines, and technical webinars. Create an organized folder with the RFP, attachments, forms, and your working notes so everything is accessible for you and your team.

If your organization isn’t eligible to apply, don’t stop there—explore partnerships or subcontracting roles that still allow you to contribute. Funders value collaboration, and strong partnerships can often make an application more competitive.

Break Down the Work

The grant writing process can feel overwhelming if you try to tackle it all at once. Instead:

• Divide the proposal into three parts: forms, budget, and narrative.
• Complete the forms first, especially if signatures are needed from partners or administrators.
• Draft the budget early. Budgets help shape the narrative and clarify what’s realistic. Expect to revise it—often.
• Write the narrative last in a separate document, which makes collaboration and editing easier.

Build a Strong Support System

Successful proposals are rarely written alone. Identify partners early, schedule meetings, and clarify roles. Ask colleagues from outside your program area to review drafts—they’ll spot gaps in clarity and help strengthen the narrative. Always give reviewers enough time and guidance on what to look for.

And don’t forget to clear your own schedule. Writing a competitive proposal requires deep focus. Protect time on your calendar and minimize distractions so you can dedicate your best energy to the work.

Lessons Learned from the Field

Here are ten quick tips that consistently improve proposals:

1. Use reviewers—at least 2–3 people who bring fresh eyes.
2. Set aside dedicated time—don’t try to squeeze it in around everything else.
3. Break the proposal into sections for manageability.
4. Complete forms first, budget second, narrative last.
5. Create a clear, detailed budget that aligns directly with your narrative.
6. Answer every question, every time.
7. Follow instructions to the letter—from file size to ink color.
8. Keep your language simple and clear—no jargon or “fancy” words needed.
9. Partner and collaborate whenever possible.
10. Be open to feedback—every review strengthens the final product.

Final Tips & Takeaways

Before you hit “submit,” let your proposal sit for a few days. Come back with fresh eyes, reread the RFP, check your notes, and review every section carefully. And always, always, always plan to submit at least two days before the deadline. This simple buffer can save you from last-minute technical glitches or overlooked errors.

Grant writing may be hard work, but it is also one of the most rewarding ways to bring resources, partnerships, and new opportunities to your community. With the right mix of persistence, organization, and collaboration, you’ll be ready to put your best proposal forward.

Happy grant writing!

Read more Tips and Tricks for Successful Grant Writing

Last year Beth Claypoole and I traveled to the ESP National Conference together.  While there and along the way home, we hatched an idea for a pilot podcast series: conversations with veteran and retired staff that lean into the relationships that enrich their careers.  After that, ESP Lambda Chapter (our NYS group) applied for funding from National ESP and received a $1,000 award to work on our pilot podcasts.

What started as a simple wish—to capture and share the stories of Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) staff, past and present—quickly blossomed into a podcast dedicated to celebrating the people behind the programs.  We recruited Kelly Campbell, Volunteers Specialist for CCE Admin, and CCE New Staff Orientation lead to host the series, and Abby Younger, recent media arts BFA Marymount Manhattan grad, and former member of my 4-H club as producer.  The four-episode pilot was completed this summer.  We will promote each individually – but they are all available in case you are hooked and want to binge-listen :)…they are delightful.

• Thriving from County to National: Expanding Impact with Alexa Maille and Shawn Tiede
• Growing to Executive Director: Leadership Lessons with Bernie Wiesen and Beth Claypoole
• Rooted in 4-H: Tim and Tom Davis on Family, Leadership, and Legacy
• Planted in Broome, Transplanted to Campus: A Conversation with Celeste Carmichael and Victoria Giarratano

With each episode, listeners are invited into honest, inspiring conversations that highlight the journeys, challenges, and wisdom of those who’ve dedicated their careers to Extension work. Whether you’re a seasoned staff member, a curious newcomer, or simply someone who values community-driven leadership, this podcast offers a rich tapestry of voices that reflect the heart and mission of CCE.

Podcast is available here! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sowing-seeds-growing-leaders-cornell-cooperative-extension/id1827288810

Come join us if you can.  This picnic is for ESP members and 5-H’ers (retirees from the 4-H Program).  It is always great fun and heartwarming.

When:           Tuesday, August 5th, 2025

Where:          Dryden Town Park, Dryden, NY

Time:             12:00 (Noon)- 3 p.m.

Details:  

• Everyone is asked to bring a dish to pass 
• We will provide beverages and paper goods
• Bring your own creative Name Tag and/or wear a Favorite t-Shirt that tells a good story.
• We have use of the large pavilion for the whole day and you are welcome to stay and visit as long as you like
• There is plenty of space for parking near the pavilion, no entrance fee….  The amount per person is calculated once we see how many are planning on attending.  

RSVP: By July 15

• 5-H’ers, Please RSVP to Tom Dumas (tad5@cornell.edu) or text (607-423-3331)
• Epsilon Sigma Phi, Please RSVP to Celeste  Carmichael (cjc17@cornell.edu)

We are looking forward to seeing everyone this summer!  If you haven’t been with us in recent years, we hope you can make it so we can catch up with all your adventures.  

Thanks to ESP for supporting my trip in April to attend the 2025 PILD conference in Washington DC. I have been aware of PILD conferences for decades, since I began working with national and Northeast regional teams on ways to build Extension’s capacity to educate in the face of controversy through the tradition in Extension known as Public Issues Education. I have attended and presented at PILD conferences in the past, now and then, when the time and expense made sense for me. This year I felt a special desire to go again due to the uncertainties related to continued federal funding of work at Land Grant Institutions. PILD always includes updates from our federal partners and provides background and opportunities for participants to visit key contacts and policymakers in Washington DC. Inasmuch as I am serving currently as Chair of the National Extension Climate Initiative, my attendance this year seemed likely to be particularly useful.

The PILD agenda this year included a number of opening plenary sessions with remarks from our leaders including Conference Chair Daphne Richards, Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP) President Phil Durst, and newly appointed USDA-NIFA director Dr. Jaye Hambly. Their remarks set the stage for the conference, providing some reassuring insights into the perspectives of leadership into the future of the Extension system.

Dr. Doug Steele, appearing as Vice President of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources (FANR) and representing the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities (APLU), offered a well-grounded set of ideas for ways to “navigate the rapids” with effective leadership, as he framed his talk. This opening session concluded with an inspirational keynote from Vonda Richardson, Chair of the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP), on the importance of investing public resources for greater impact. Realization of this goal might, in fact, be thought of as the central reason to have a PILD conference.

We also got an update from Dr. Brent Hales on ECOP’s agenda and an overview of the achievement-directed work currently being carried out by the 8 Program Action Teams (PATs) currently being supported by ECOP and the Extension Foundation (see advocacy.extension.org for more on these PATs).

From this introduction, there was a wealth of opportunities to learn more from professional colleagues in a variety of sessions, drawing on all areas of Extension programming and aspects of our organization. As a member of the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals (NACDEP) as well as of ESP, I paid special attention to the NACDEP-associated topics in “Ignite” presentations and posters.

I was particularly happy to meet up with two New York State Extension colleagues at PILD this year. Bernie Wiesen, incoming JCEP President, and Orange County Family and Community Resilience Resource Educator Julika von Stackelberg arranged an onsite briefing with Diane Miller, Cornell’s Senior Director of Federal Government Relations. Diane filled us in on her angles on what was unfolding in Washington at the time and what the implications for Cornell might be. Of course, the situation then was much up in the air and has only partially been clarified since then. An overwhelming takeaway from the conference was the unprecedented uncertainties regarding federal roles and the need for adaptability while remaining true to Extension’s core missions.

The final day of the conference is always devoted to visits by state delegations to policymakers and others in Washington. Our small NYS team had an excellent meeting with the Environmental and Energy Study Institute’s (EESI) President, Daniel Bresette. EESI has spent decades offering routine, science-based bipartisan briefings to members of Congress, their staff, and public audiences on the environmental, energy, and climate policy themes that are at the core of my own work. Because EESI has the ear of Congress, an educational mission closely related to that of Extension, and a broad network of experts and audiences, I am looking forward to deepening the relationship with Daniel.

Overall, PILD proved once again to be a “drinking from a firehose” experience of information and opportunity. Thanks to ESP for helping to make my attendance possible. Anyone wishing to follow up with me, please feel free to do so.

David Kay

Senior Extension Associate, Department of Global DevelopmentCritical Issue Lead, Climate Change and Sustainable Energy, Cornell Cooperative Extension
ESP,  Lambda Chapter Member and Professional Development Scholarship Winner