Renzo Ceme Vinces is the Extension Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator serving Grundy, Kankakee, & Will Counties.  In this role, Renzo empowers communities and provides Illinois residents with the resources and confidence they need to produce, grow, and consume local agricultural products. 

As Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator, Renzo delivers impactful programming that supports the spectrum of producers and stakeholders.  From livestock to fruits and vegetables, soil management to environmental factors, Renzo works to mentor changemakers as they work to build a thriving business or support their local communities.

Throughout his career and in Extension, Renzo prioritizes a people-first strategy by supporting and talking directly with people to identify areas where support is needed. 

Prior to his role with Extension, Renzo worked as the Field Coordinator at the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA) in Ecuador for the Farmer-to-Farm program where he worked to support the capacity building of small farmers through training topics the program provided them.  The program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is a voluntary assistance program that promotes sustainable economic growth and agricultural development.  In his role as Field Coordinator, Renzo identified and recruited host organizations such as agricultural cooperatives, built innovative volunteer activities for the program’s volunteer U.S. citizen trainers, and assessed the impact of volunteer assignments. 

Renzo holds a Master of Science degree from Texas Tech University in Agricultural Education (2023) and a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Development from Zamorano University (2018).

Outside of his work with Extension, Renzo enjoys spending time with friends alongside a good cup of coffee.  He is also passionate about events related to Latin American culture – particularly those centered around food and music.

Education

• MS Agricultural Education | Texas Tech University (2023).
• BS Environmental and Development | Zamorano University (2018).