Christine Belless
Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
cbelless@illinois.edu
“I coordinate logistics and volunteers for commercial agriculture and natural resource programs. I work closely with our team of 90 Master Naturalists as they deliver educational programs, complete continuing education, and work with our partners on projects such as restoration of natural areas and environmental stewardship events. As a trained facilitator in Annie’s Project, I coordinate the training offered to women in ag and work with state commercial ag educators for programs held locally.”
Christine has been the Program Coordinator serving Fulton, Mason, Peoria, Tazewell Counties since 2011. She began her Illinois Extension career in 1994.
EDUCATION
- B.A. Ed from Western Illinois University
JOB HISTORY
- Fulton County SNAP-Ed instructor
- Mason County 4-H Program Coordinator
EXAMPLES OF CHRISTINE’S EXTENSION EFFORTS
- Master Naturalist program
- Annie’s Project
- Tazewell County HCE
- Private Applicator Testing
FAVORITE MEMORY IN EXTENSION
“One of my favorite memories as a program coordinator for the Master Naturalist program, was when I was interviewing a recently retired gentleman for an upcoming Master Naturalist training. After sharing about the program and discussing the goals and expectations of the Master Naturalist applicant, the gentleman remarked “It sounds like camp for grown ups.” I had never thought about Master Naturalist training quite like that before, but now I include that phrase when I describe the Master Naturalist program.”