Livvy Preisser has served as an agriculture and natural resources agent with Virginia Cooperative Extension for more than a decade. She began her Extension journey as an intern at the Eastern Virginia Agricultural Research and Extension Center and now leads the Isle of Wight Extension office as its unit coordinator. A proud Virginia Tech graduate, Preisser is passionate about connecting youth with agriculture and supporting producers in southeastern Virginia as they refine and expand their growing options. 

This story is part of Get to Know Extension, a Q&A series highlighting the people who make Virginia Cooperative Extension’s mission possible.

How did you get started in Extension? 

“I was studying to be a loan officer at Virginia Tech, but by junior year I realized that wasn’t the path for me. My husband suggested Extension since he’d had great mentors through Extension and 4-H growing up. I applied for a summer internship in Essex County, and I’ve been with Extension ever since. I started in ag marketing and agritourism, which sparked my passion for youth ag education. That’s stayed with me through every role. To me, Extension isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle.” 

What does Extension mean to you — personally and professionally? 

“It’s about being deeply involved in your community, meeting people where they are, building relationships, and responding to real needs. Whether it’s youth programs, livestock workshops, or water quality education, our work is shaped by conversations with stakeholders. You’re not just an expert. You’re a connector. People know you inside and outside the office, and that drives everything we do.” 

What do you enjoy most about your role in Extension? 

“It’s the variety and the impact. No day is the same, and if you’re passionate about something that meets a local need, you can run with it. We have incredible support from colleagues, specialists, and partners. But what I love most is seeing the difference — whether it’s a kid inspired to pursue agriculture or a farmer gaining new skills.” 

Tell us about a moment or project that made you proud to work in Extension. 

“After COVID, my colleague and I started a ‘Thank a Farmer’ dinner during harvest season. Our 4-H youth plan the menu, make thank-you cards, and prepare meals to deliver to farmers in the field. Farmers not only appreciate the gesture but often take time to show the youth their equipment and talk about their work. It’s become an annual tradition, and seeing the youth connect with agriculture and the community makes me incredibly proud.” 

Two photos of a woman standing with children at a county fair as they display goats.
Livvy Pressier supports Isle of Wight 4-H youth at the county fair — offering show-ring tips to Ginny Lee and joining Ryan Ashley in a mock Cloverbud goat walk to help young participants learn and engage. Photos courtesy of Melissa Brown.

How does your work make a difference in your community or region? 

“After eight years as an agent, I’ve built strong partnerships and watched small programs grow into something meaningful. When kids recognize me in public as ‘the bee lady,’ or when someone refers others to me for help, that’s when I know I’m making a difference. Just being someone the community can reach out to — that connection is what Extension is all about.” 

What’s one misconception people have about Extension that you’d like to clear up? 

 “People think Extension agents are supposed to know everything, but we’re not experts in every topic. What we do have is a strong network of specialists, colleagues, and land-grant universities we can call on for support. Extension is about connecting people to the right resources, not having all the answers ourselves.” 

What advice would you give someone just beginning their career in Extension? 

 “Get involved. Attend meetings, introduce yourself, and connect with stakeholders. Once people know who you are and what Extension is, you’ll start to see where your passion fits and where the needs are. Building those relationships early on is key.” 

What are you currently excited about? 

“We’re starting a new partnership with the local animal shelter. They’ve asked us to help with raised beds and planting food for their small livestock, and we’re involving Extension Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, and 4-H clubs. It’s shaping up to be a full-unit project, and I’m proud they reached out to Extension for support.” 

Finish this sentence: Extension is important because… 

“Extension is important because it creates tangible impact — from helping farmers and supporting youth to strengthening communities. Extension offers meaningful relationships and the chance to serve in ways that matter.”

- Written by Christie Culliton, field marketing & communications coordinator