Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) takes pride in the premise that vital programming is based on the issues, problems, and needs of the people. A thorough analysis of the situation provides context for understanding these problems. This is a process of determining what situations exist at local, regional, and state levels, and for determining which problems have become issues of major public concern. Situation analysis provides the foundation and rationale for deciding which problems should receive the time, energy, and resources of VCE.

"Virginia Cooperative Extension is required to ensure that its digital content is accessible by everyone regardless of physical or technological readiness. This includes all content that is posted online —websites, publications, social media, email, presentations, etc. This template has been designed to help you create a publication that meets this requirement. Please use this template and follow the guidelines below to create your publication. If your publication does not meet accessibility guidelines, it will not be published."

Military family well-being is improved when professionals who support families are ready, knowledgeable and networked. Family well-being contributes to retention and readiness of military service members, helping to build and sustain effective and efficient military and family support and community partnerships. This handout provides information on how OneOp supports the work of VCE professionals engaging with military families.

An effective printed flyer program promoting Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) events and programs requires: clarity, hierarchy, and brand consistency. Flyers should feature high-contrast visuals, minimal but informative text (event name, date, time, location, CTA), and accessible formatting. By leveraging VCE branding including colors, fonts, and decorative elements, Extension professionals can enhance outreach and increase program visibility and engagement.

Social media is a strategic communication tool that enables Virginia Cooperative Extension units to disseminate information, promote programs, and engage stakeholders in real time. By leveraging platform-specific analytics, Extension professionals can enhance outreach, increase program visibility, and measure engagement to inform future communication efforts.

A career in Extension offers a diverse and rewarding opportunity to make a difference in your community. This publication is based on a webinar with experienced Extension professionals who shared insights, tips, and encouragement for building a successful career in Extension. The information below is derived from that conversation and is not intended to be comprehensive, but rather a starting point for defining your strategies for success as you embark on your career. Finding your place in the diverse world of Extension takes time, relationships, conversations, and self-honesty. You have a network of colleagues cheering for your success!

Extension offers many paths to leadership at the district and state level. This publication is based on an online seminar with experienced Extension professionals sharing their insights, tips, and experiences applying and interviewing for various district and state roles. The information below is derived from that conversation and is intended to offer strategies and advice for district and state level applications and interviews.

Extension offers many paths to leadership at the district and state level. This publication is based on an online seminar with experienced Extension professionals sharing their insights, tips, and encouragement for exploring leadership opportunities in Extension. The information below is derived from that conversation and is intended to be a starting point for thinking about opportunities to stretch your leadership skills and potentially take on formal leadership roles.

One key responsibility of VCE unit leader positions is the preparation, submission and approval of local budget requests. UCs/UEDs must also manage locally appropriated funds in full compliance with Virginia Tech (VT) and VCE policies and procedures.

VCE unit leaders foster strong relationships and maintaining open communication with local government officials to keep them informed of Extension activities and included in relevant initiatives. Unit leaders actively engage with local government, support community priorities, and seek opportunities to collaborate on initiatives that align with Extension’s mission and the needs of the locality.

VCE unit leaders use a coaching style to motivate, encourage, and support unit staff. Leaders foster a positive work environment and manage interpersonal dynamics within the unit, including conflict, to ensure a collaborative and productive team culture.

Unit Leaders, in collaboration with their District Director, represent VCE in negotiations with local government regarding new or updated Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These agreements outline the roles, responsibilities, and expectations between VCE and local partners while ensuring alignment with current VCE and Virginia Tech policies, guidance, and strategic priorities.

Unit Leaders, in collaboration with their District Director, represent VCE in negotiations with local government regarding new or updated Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These agreements outline the roles, responsibilities, and expectations between VCE and local partners while ensuring alignment with current VCE and Virginia Tech policies, guidance, and strategic priorities.

Unit Leaders, in collaboration with their District Director, work with the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Human Resources office to develop and recruit for classified staff, wage and faculty employment positions. Unit Leaders ensure that hiring efforts align with VCE’s standards and attract candidates who are well-suited to serve the needs of the local community.

Unit leaders are expected to organize regular unit meetings, designed to foster team cohesion and identify opportunities for collaboration. Unit Leaders also share key district and state-level initiatives, and reinforce policies and expectations to ensure alignment with broader organizational goals.

VCE unit leader positions cultivate strong local relationships and partnerships which help the unit identify individuals who can serve on Extension Leadership Council (ELC) to reflect the needs and priorities of the community. Units can leverage the collective input of an ELC to guide programming decisions. and ensure that Extension programs remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with local interests.