Using SWOT to Build Leadership Accountability in Cooperative Extension
Leadership and Administrative Skills
Kevin Camm
County Extension Director
UF/IFAS Extension Orange County
Orlando
Abstract
Statement of Issue: SWOT analysis is commonly used in Cooperative Extension for program planning and evaluation; however, it is rarely structured as a leadership development or accountability mechanism. As volunteer-based programs increase in size, complexity, and public visibility, Extension professionals need practical tools that strengthen communication, clarify leadership roles, and support shared ownership across programs. Traditional SWOT processes often collect input but fail to close the feedback loop in ways that promote trust, alignment, and action. Methodology: A multi-county leadership-focused SWOT framework was piloted across 10 of 11 counties within UF/IFAS Extension's Central District. Approximately 700 Master Gardener Volunteers were invited to participate, and 294 completed surveys (42% response rate). Initial SWOT data were collected in Spring 2025 and followed by facilitated, in-person listening sessions conducted during Summer and Fall 2025. In seven counties, a second round of visits was conducted to present findings back to volunteers, coordinators, and Extension leadership. This feedback-validation loop was intentionally designed to confirm shared themes, reinforce accountability, and support collective reflection. Qualitative responses were coded to identify leadership-aligned trends and areas for action. Impact: The leadership-focused SWOT process strengthened communication between volunteers, coordinators, and Extension leadership; clarified leadership roles and expectations; and improved alignment around program priorities. Follow-up feedback indicated increased trust, stronger shared ownership, and greater readiness to implement changes related to communication practices, leadership structures, and training approaches. Counties reported that the structured return of results helped move discussions from problem identification to action planning. Extension Education and Application: This framework was used to educate Extension professionals and volunteers on reflective leadership, shared accountability, and program improvement. Although piloted within the Master Gardener Volunteer program, the approach is adaptable across Extension disciplines, including 4-H, Family and Consumer Sciences, advisory boards, and staff teams. Applicability: The model is low-cost, scalable, and replicable across regions, offering Extension systems a practical way to integrate evaluation, leadership development, and accountability at scale.
Authors: Kevin Camm, Wendy Wilber, Norma Samuel, PhD.
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Kevin Camm County Extension Director / Associate District Extension Director, UF/IFAS Extension , Florida, 32812
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Wendy Wilber Statewide Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator , UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32611
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Norma Samuel, PhD. District Extension Director, UF/IFAS Extension, Florida, 32611