The University of Illinois Board of Trustees, in accordance with state law, authorizes local Extension councils to be actively involved in the operation of Extension. Extension councils serve in an advisory role cooperating with Extension staff in planning, promoting, developing, implementing, evaluating and financing University of Illinois Extension programs designed to meet the needs, interests, and resources of the local communities. They serve as a formal liaison between the public and Extension. Time commitment is 2 years with an opportunity to serve a second two-year term.

The Extension Council is made up of 15-20 volunteers representing the county, and includes youth representation. Nominees are identified locally and include a diverse group of individuals who respect the Extension organization and who are interested in its programs in their communities. The Dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Services reviews the nominations and makes the appointments.

Council sub-committees address specific program areas, such as agriculture, family and consumer economics, youth development, and resource development. Individuals interested in Extension programs may serve on a committee without serving on the Extension Council.

2007-2008 Extension Council Members

• Kent Ackerman (Chairman) - Master Gardener/Master Naturalist
• DeAnne Bloomberg - Rock Island County Farm Bureau
• Teri Carls (Financial Secretary) - 4-H volunteer
• Tony Cardoso - Project NOW
• Irma Cruz - Head Start/Project NOW
• Sara Arriaga de Castro - Project NOW
• Theresa Foes - Rock Island County Health Department
• Mary Jane Griffin - Master Gardener
• Abby Ill - Youth representative
• Monique Lampe - Head Start
• Ken Maranda - Rock Island County Board
• Glenn Saddoris - Rock Island County Farm Bureau
• Amy Sandgren - Rock Island County Regional Office of Education
• J.D. Schulte - Public Administration
• Travis Schulte - Youth representative
• Steve Simpson (Vice Chairman) - Professional Administration
• Michael Taylor - Youth representative
• Emilia Vargas (Secretary) - Youth representative

2008 Extension Council Calendar

January 28

March 31

May 19

September 29

November 24

All meetings are held at the Extension Office, 4550 Kennedy Dr., East Moline, IL beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Agenda - March 31, 2008

Start at 5 p.m. with a light snack/supper

Meeting convenes at 5:30 p.m.

1. Introduction

2. Council Concurrence of Ag/Natural Resource Educator – Gerald Correthers

3. Reports

• Approval of January Minutes
• Financials
• Staff Reports
• Public Comments

4. Announcements

5. Programming Ideas

6. New Business:

7. Old Business

8. Adjourn

Next Meeting: May 19, 2008