The Revitalization Roadmap: 3 Steps to Refresh Your County Program
Extension Education
Jacob Holloway
Extension Agent
University of Arkansas
Devalls Bluff
Abstract
Many rural Extension programs eventually reach a "growth plateau" when traditional methods and advisory structures no longer meet modern community needs. At this point, organizational energy declines, and programs often continue out of habit rather than purpose. This poster presents a practical, three-step "Revitalization Roadmap" to help Extension Agents transition from routine program technicians to strategic organizational architects. Drawing on proven management principles, specifically Kotter's 8-Step Change Model and Jim Collins' leadership frameworks, this methodology offers a simplified approach to restoring organizational health. The framework begins with a clear Need & Goal Statement that identifies symptoms of stagnation. A SWOT Audit follows to assess local strengths and threats. The core of the framework comprises three execution phases: 1. Inventory & Pruning: Auditing current programs to identify what is "healthy" versus what is "stagnant." 2. Vision Alignment: Shifting the focus from routine tasks to mission-driven outcomes that resonate with stakeholders. 3. Building Momentum: Executing highly visible "short-term wins" to demonstrate that change is possible and build community buy-in. This repeatable framework enables any agent to modernize leadership structures and increase grassroots impact. Most importantly, this approach ensures that county-level revitalization efforts align directly with the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture Strategic Plan (2023) for organizational excellence and long-term relevance.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Jacob Holloway
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Holloway, J. Extension Agent, University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, Arkansas, 72041