Extension Council

The Extension Council is authorized by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees, in accordance with state law, to be actively involved in the operation of University of Illinois Extension. Extension Councils cooperate with Extension staff in promoting and financing an Extension program designed to meet the needs, interests, and resources of the local communities served.

Extension Council Members

Members of Extension Councils contribute immeasurably to the effectiveness of University of Illinois Extension by helping identify local needs, develop/implement programs, and secure resources for projects that address our state's most pressing issues.

If you are interested in bringing your unique perspective to the Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery Extension Council, please contact Sara Marten. University of Illinois Extension is dedicated to the most fundamental principles of academic freedom, equality of opportunity, and human dignity. All decisions involving clientele and employees are based on individual merit and are free from invidious discrimination in all its forms.

Current Council Members

Extension Council Members:

Sheila Beers - Brighton, Jersey County
Paige Cox - Palmyra, Macoupin County
Brandi Crawford - Staunton, Macoupin County
Mike Cross - Pana, Christian County
Darryl Edwards - Hillsboro, Montgomery County
Anna Fessler - Dow, Jersey County
Caiden Freeland - Jerseyville, Jersey County
Heather Haley - Carlinville, Macoupin County
Cyndy Howard - Hillsboro, Montgomery County
Joe Kaburick - Carlinville, Macoupin County
Venise McWard - Taylorville, Christian County
Katie Paulek - Stonington, Christian County
Chad Ruppert - Witt, Montgomery County
Melinda Ward - Litchfield, Montgomery County
Katie Wilson - Hillsboro, Montgomery County

Council Meeting Schedules, Agendas, and Minutes

2026 Extension Council Meeting Schedule

Thursday, April 16 - Montgomery County Extension Office
Thursday, June 25 - Jersey County Extension Office
Monday, July 27 - Montgomery County Extension Office
Monday, Aug. 10 - Christian County Extension Office
Thursday, November 19 - Macoupin County Extension Office