Extension Retreats: Building Synergy, Collaboration, and Fun
Leadership and Administrative Skills
Nicholas Simmons
County Extension Director and Commercial Livestock Agent II
Cantonment
Abstract
Extension professionals across the country are called to provide the current, research-based information to clientele to make the quality of life greater. We are often attending training, workshops, in-service or field days to provide clients and peers the latest information in our field. At the core, Extension educators are asked to be the "experts in the field" for many challenges we face. It is important however, to understand that Extension educators are professionals, who work in a professional environment that should invest in them both professionally and personally. Understanding that an Extension office, unit, district, or department needs to work as one unified body to promote Extension excellence is critically important now more than ever. Synergy is defined by Harris and Moran as a cooperative or combined action and occurs when diverse or disparate individuals or groups collaborate for a common cause. The objective is to increase effectiveness by sharing perceptions and experiences, insights, and knowledge. (Harris, & Moran, 2011, p.233). We will discuss how synergy happens at the macro level to encourage collaboration among colleagues in Extension. Along with synergy, there needs to be an opportunity for the group to find strengths among themselves to allow better service to the stakeholders. Nonetheless, incorporating fun and entertainment provides a more relaxed setting for colleagues to gather. In this session, Extension educators learn and discuss: Interactive ways to engaged with faculty and staff of an Extension unit to build comradery among peers. How to plan and develop fun, educational retreats or field days for staff. The importance of team building and synergy. Why unity in an Extension unit is essential for professional excellence.
Authors: Nicholas Simmons
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Nicholas Simmons County Extension Director and Commercial Livestock Agent II, UF/IFAS Extension Escambia County, Florida, 32533-7792