Staff
We believe in Illinois: its people, its diverse neighborhoods and communities, and our shared future. We believe that health and wellness are the foundation for individuals, families, and communities reaching their full potential. We believe in and promote a culture of service as fundamental to strong and healthy families, neighborhoods, and state. We believe that the long term sustainability of the environment and agricultural productivity requires stewardship and care. We believe in and respect youth’s potential to change the world, and work to support nurturing communities and opportunities to learn and grow.
We believe in the state of Illinois and we are committed to our mission linking local communities to the University, to develop programs, tools, and knowledge that will support needed change. University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state’s land grant institution.
As Extension professionals, we are committed to the following values:
- Collaboration: We foster equitable and accountable relationships across the state to provide programs that meet each community’s diverse needs.
- Credibility: We act with integrity and build trust by using evidence-based research, following through on our commitments, and supporting our stakeholders to effectively face challenges through tested solutions and new innovations.
- Inclusivity: We acknowledge and respect the similarities, differences, and contributions of all people and communities in identifying new ideas and approaches to our work. Our success is dependent on valuing, engaging, and including everyone in creating a culture of belonging.
- Learning: We deliver evidence-based knowledge through teaching, collaboration, and partnerships that provide those we serve with varied opportunities for growth, well-being, and resiliency.
4-H Youth Development
Tianna Davis
Maria E Gutiérrez
Leonard Parker
Latosha Reggans
Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences
Horticulture
Amanda Anderson
Gemini Bhalsod
Nancy Kreith
Meg Marsan
Margaret Burns Westmeyer
Local Food Systems and Small Farms
Sarah Batka
Zachary Grant
Kathryn Pereira
Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy
Sean Heaney
Sam Jacobs
Community Health
Veronica Aranda
Rainah Folk
Rebecca Griffith
Sonia Lopez
Constance Willis
Family Life
Aida Peralta
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
Martina Rivera Curry
Shanda Felder
Lesly Gonzalez
Faith Jeffries
Alicia Mendoza
Sandra Morales
Mario Apolinar Puente Rebollar
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed)
Angela Crawford
Ana Garcia
Maria Guzman
Larissa Jones
Janita McElroy
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM)
Marketing and Communications