The University of Minnesota Extension held a prestigious ceremony on September 27, awarding various professionals and supporters with the 2023 Dean’s Distinguished Awards. Extension Dean Bev Durgan presented the accolades, celebrating achievements in agricultural education, advocacy, climate science, and more.
Among the honorees was Kent Thiesse, awarded as a Distinguished Friend of Extension. Thiesse’s dedication to Extension traces back to his 4-H days in the 1960s. With a background as a county Extension agent and a current role as a senior vice president at MinnStar Bank, Thiesse is well-recognized for his agricultural advocacy and support for 4-H programs. His consistent contribution to educational forums and media appearances further highlights his commitment to Extension.
Lee Johnston, a Swine Specialist with a focus on swine production, renewable energy in production systems, and ag literacy, received the Distinguished Faculty Award. His 35-year career has been marked by innovative research, extensive publications, and national as well as international presentations, making him a valued member of the Extension community.
Climate Scientist Heidi Roop was awarded the Distinguished Outstanding Leadership Award for her remarkable work in developing the University’s Climate Adaptation Partnership (MCAP) as a national model. In just three years, Roop has successfully established a network of stakeholders, developed useful resources, and secured significant investment, contributing to Minnesota’s readiness for climate change.
Lisa Hinz, celebrated for her leadership and civic engagement programs, earned the Distinguished Extension Educator Award. Hinz’s 25-plus year career is notable for her focus on transformational change, equity, and inclusion, making her an inspiring figure among her colleagues.
Natalie Hoidal’s dedication to diversity in agricultural education earned her the Distinguished Diversity Award. Hoidal’s initiatives engage farmers from diverse backgrounds, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are addressed through tailored Extension education.
The Northeast Region Anti-Racism Collective leadership and the Minnesota Statewide Food Shelf Survey partners were also honored for their impactful contributions to cultural competency in youth development and efforts to improve food access for families respectively.
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Categories: Minnesota, Education, Energy, Livestock