Navigating Extension’s Future: A Synthesis of Contemporary Research for Extension Directors
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.v67i3.3243Keywords:
Cooperative Extension, extension administration, adaptive leadership, organizational change, environmental scanning, stakeholdersAbstract
Cooperative Extension operates within an increasingly complex environment shaped by fiscal pressures, demographic change, evolving public expectations, technological transformation, and workforce challenges. Although research has explored leadership competencies among Extension administrators, fewer studies have examined how Directors understand and respond to contemporary environmental challenges. This integrative review synthesizes findings from a multi-state qualitative study of Extension administrators and subsequent peer-reviewed scholarship derived from that program of research. The purpose of this manuscript is to identify leadership implications emerging from the intersection of administrator experiences and contemporary Extension literature. An integrative review methodology was employed, drawing upon findings from the foundational qualitative study and related scholarship published in the Journal of Agricultural Education, The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, Journal of Extension, Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, and Journal of Youth Development. Constant comparative analysis identified four overarching themes: (a) Extension's evolving environment, (b) adaptive leadership in Extension, (c) mission evolution and stakeholder engagement, and (d) organizational capacity for the future. Findings suggest Extension Directors should expand environmental scanning practices, distinguish adaptive from technical challenges, cultivate stakeholder understanding during periods of organizational change, and invest in evaluation, workforce development, and organizational learning systems. Implications are discussed for Extension directors, state program leaders, and other organizational leaders seeking to sustain relevance while maintaining commitment to Extension's founding mission.
Downloads
References
Ackah, R. C. (2025). From Rural Roots to Urban Realities: Reimagining Cooperative Extension as a complex adaptive system [Doctoral dissertation, University of Georgia]. https://www.proquest.com/LegacyDocView/DISSNUM/32240381
Adusei, F. Y. (2025). Promoting equity: Embracing food justice in the transformation of the food systems for BIPOC communities. Journal of Extension, 63(1), Article 8. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.63.01.08
Al-Mazroa Smith, S., & Miller, G. (2024). Needs assessment tool for a value-added beef Extension program for small farmers. Journal of Extension, 62(1), Article 5. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.62.01.05
Argabright, K., McGuire, J., & King, J. (2012). Extension through a new lens: Creativity and innovation now and for the future. Journal of Extension, 50(2), Article 39. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.50.02.39
Arnold, M. E. (2018). From context to outcomes: A thriving model for 4-H youth development programs. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 6(1), Article 11. https://doi.org/10.54718/NBNL5438
Arnold, M. E. (2020). America's moment: Investing in positive youth development to transform youth and society. Journal of Youth Development, 15(5), 16–36. https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2020.996
Arnold, M. E., & Gagnon, R. J. (2020). Positive youth development theory in practice: An update on the 4-H Thriving Model. Journal of Youth Development, 15(6), 1-23. https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2020.954
Bain, L. (2023). Open educational resources: Why were they developed and what are future implications? In Technology and the curriculum: Summer 2023. Publisher. PressBooks. https://pressbooks.pub/techcurr2023/chapter/oer/
Beasley, J. (1980). Needs assessments technique. Journal of Extension, 18(3), Article 48. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.9826
Berven, B. C., Franck, K. L., & Hastings, S. W. (2020). Investing in Extension's workforce: Assessing and developing critical competencies of new agents. Journal of Extension, 58(2), Article 28. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.02.28
Boeije, H. (2002). A purposeful approach to the constant comparative method in the analysis of qualitative interviews. Quality and quantity, 36(4), 391-409. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1020909529486
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative research in psychology, 3(2), 77-101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
Brauner, R., Crocker, A. B., Mahadevan, L., & Plein, L. C. (2025). Unlocking professional success: The power of workforce resilience & Cooperative Extension. Journal of Extension, 63(3), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5561
Byington, T. (2010). Keys to successful mentoring relationships. Journal of Extension, 48(6), Article 30. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.48.06.30
Caffarella, R. S. (1982). Identifying client needs. Journal of Extension, 20(4), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.7213
Caravella, J. (2006). A needs assessment method for Extension educators. Journal of Extension, 44(1), Article 24. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4397
Cheang, M., & Yamashita, G. L. (2020). Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on community partners in the agriculture industry. Journal of Extension, 58(5), Article 11. https://commons.joe.org/joe/vol58/iss5/11/
Chowdhury, A. H., Hambly Odame, H., & Leeuwis, C. (2014). Transforming the roles of a public Extension agency to strengthen innovation: Lessons from the National Agricultural Extension project in Bangladesh. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 20(1), 7–25. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2013.803990
Chowdhury, A., Kabir, K. H., Asafo-Agyei, E. K., & Abdulai, A.-R. (2024). Participatory and community-based approach in combating agri-food misinformation: A Scoping Review. Advancements in Agricultural Development, 5(2), 81–104. https://doi.org/10.37433/aad.v5i2.349
Denny, M. D. (2016). Mentoring adult learners: Implications for Cooperative Extension as a learning organization. Journal of Extension, 54(3), Article 23. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.54.03.23
DeRue, D. S. (2011). Adaptive leadership theory: Leading and following as a complex adaptive process. The Leadership Quarterly, 22(1), 125–150. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.leaqua.2010.12.010
Diaz, J., Gusto, C., Narine, L. K., Jayaratne, K. S. U., & Silvert, C. (2023). Toward diversity, Equity, and inclusion outreach and engagement in Extension education: Expert consensus on barriers and strategies. Journal of Extension, 61(1), Article 21. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.61.01.21
Dobbins, C., Faulk, K., Roberts, A., & Lamm, A. (2021). Evaluating Extension in times of crisis: Assessing program impact during COVID-19. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education, 28(2), 6–13. https://doi.org/10.5191/jiaee.2021.28201
Donaldson, J. L. (2024). Preparing the next generation of Extension professionals. In M. R. T. de Guzman & H. Hatton (Eds.), Extension Education and the Social Sciences: Uplifting Children, Youth, Families, and Communities (pp. 246–266). Cambridge University Press. https://doi.org/10.1017/9781108980562
Donaldson, J. L., & Hastings, S. (2020). Overview of a statewide Extension strategic planning process and unintended uutcomes. Journal of Extension, 58(3), Article 29. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.03.29
Downey, L. H., Peterson, D. J., & Franz, N. (2017). Perception of current and ideal practices related to public value in Extension. Journal of Extension, 55(4), Article 18. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.55.04.18
Doyle, M., & Briggeman, B. C. (2014). To like or not to like: Social media as a marketing tool. Journal of Extension, 52(3), Article 19. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.52.03.19
Dumont, E. S., Bonhomme, S., Pagella, T. F., & Sinclair, F. L. (2019). Structured stakeholder engagement leads to development of more diverse and inclusive agroforestry options. Experimental Agriculture, 55(S1), 252-274.https://doi.org/10.1017/S0014479716000788
Elliott-Engel, J. (2018). State administrators’ perceptions of the environmental challenges of Cooperative Extension and the 4-H program and their resulting adaptive leadership behaviors (Doctoral dissertation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University). http://hdl.handle.net/10919/98002
Elliott-Engel, J. (2024). A writing retreat for Extension professional development capacity building: A case study of Arizona Cooperative Extension’s 4-H youth development program. Journal of Extension, 62(1), Article 10. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.62.01.10
Elliott-Engel, J. (in press a). Strategic leadership for state 4-H program leaders: Navigating contemporary challenges in youth development programming. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension.
Elliott-Engel, J. (in press b). What every Extension professional needs to know: Lessons from 1862 LGU Extension administrators. Journal of Extension.
Elliott-Engel, J., & Westfall-Rudd, D. (in press). Maintaining our roots while growing forward: Health as Extension’s integrative framework. Journal of Extension.
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D., & Corkins, C. (2021). Engaging stakeholders in Extension strategic planning. Journal of Extension, 59(4), Article 3.https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.59.04.03
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D., Kaufman, E., Seibel, M., & Radhakrishna, R. (2021). A case of shifting focus friction: Extension directors and state 4-H program leaders’ perspectives on 4-H LGBTQ+ inclusion. Journal of Extension, 59(4), Article 14. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.59.04.14
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D., Kaufman, E., Seibel, M., & Radhakrishna, R. (2024). State administrators’ perspectives on environmental factors facing Cooperative Extension. Journal of Agricultural Education, 65(2), 322–345. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.v65i2.161
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D. M., Seibel, M., & Kaufman, E. (2020). Extension’s response to the change in public value: Considerations for ensuring financial security for the Cooperative Extension System. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 8(2), Article 5. https://doi.org/10.54718/BWRZ4634
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D., Seibel, M., Kaufman, E., & Radhakrishna, R. (2021). Extension Administrators’ Perspectives on Employee Competencies and Characteristics. Journal of Extension, 59(3), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.59.03.03
Elliott-Engel, J., Westfall-Rudd, D., Seibel, M., Kaufman, E., & Radhakrishna, R. (2024). Administrators’ perspectives on organizational environmental factors facing 4-H youth development. Children and Youth Services Review, 156, 107358. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.107358
Etling, A. (1995). Needs assessment: A handbook. Journal of Extension, 33(1), Article 17. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.7746
Extension Foundation. (n.d.). ExtensionBot [Artificial intelligence chatbot]. Extension Foundation. https://extensionbot.extension.org/
Faure, G., Desjeux, Y., & Gasselin, P. (2012). New challenges in agricultural advisory services from a research perspective: A literature review, synthesis and research agenda. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 18(5), 461-492. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2012.707063
Fields, N. I. (2020). Exploring the 4-H thriving model: A commentary through an equity lens. Journal of Youth Development, 15(6), 171-194. https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2020.1058
Fields, N. I., & Nathaniel, K. C. (2015). Our role in and responsibility toward social justice. Journal of Extension, 53(5), Article 15. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.53.05.15
Fortner, A. R., Lamm, A. J., Borron, A., Holt, J. & Moore, A. J., (2022). Exploring source credibility when communicating about agricultural science on Twitter. Journal of Applied Communications, 106(3), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.4148/1051-0834.2436
Fox, J. M., Ruemenapp, M. A., Proden, P., & Gaolach, B. (2017). A national framework for urban Extension. Journal of Extension, 55(5), Article 21. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.55.05.21
Fram, S. M. (2013). The constant comparative analysis method outside of grounded theory. The Qualitative Report, 18(1), 1–25. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2013.1569
Franz, N. (2015). Programming for the public good: Ensuring public value through the Cooperative Extension program development model. Journal of Human Sciences & Extension, 3(2), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.54718/YCFQ8890
Franz, N., Garst, B. A., & Gagnon, R. J. (2015). The Cooperative Extension program development model: Adapting to a changing context. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 3(2), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.54718/CWEZ3223
Franz, N., Peterson, R., & Dailey, A. (2002). Leading organizational change: A comparison of county and campus views of Extension engagement. Journal of Extension, 40(3), Article 11. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5154
Franz, N., Stovall, C., & Owen, M. (2010). The perceived value of an extension leadership network: enhancing personal and organizational effectiveness. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 16(4), 433-443. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2010.515066
French, C., & Morse, G. (2015). Extension stakeholder engagement: An exploration of two cases exemplifying 21st century adaptions. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 3(2), Article 8. https://doi.org/10.54718/CKPY5638
Garcia, A. S., Dev, D., McGinnis, C. M., & Thomas, T. (2018). Impact of an extension social media tool kit on audience engagement. Journal of Extension, 56(2), Article 14. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.56.02.14
Garcia, A. S., Monk, K., Darby, F., & Meinertz, N. R. (2025). Practical applications of generative artificial intelligence and best practices for Extension professionals. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 13(3), Article 15. https://doi.org/10.55533/2325-5226.1553
Glaser, B. G., & Strauss, A. L. (1967). The discovery of grounded theory: Strategies for qualitative research. Aldine.
Gould, F. I., Steele, D., & Woodrum, W. J. (2014). Cooperative Extension: A Century of Innovation. Journal of Extension, 52(1), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.52.01.03
Hagerman, A. D., Marshall, T. L., Sullins, M. J., & Burdine, K. H. (2022). The role of mentoring in increasing new extension faculty success rates. Agricultural & Applied Economics Association, Applied Economics Teaching Resources, 4(3), 12-22. http://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/323985
Hamilton, C. H. (2001). Exploring organizational learning of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service: A qualitative study involving parish chairs of less than three years experience [Doctoral dissertation]. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College. https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_disstheses/288/
Harder, A., Craig, D., Israel, G., Benge, M., & Caillouet, O. (2023). Exploring the possibilities of a standardized questionnaire for assessing residents’ needs. Journal of Extension, 61(2), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.61.02.01
Harder, A., Gouldthorpe, J., & Goodwin, J. (2014). Why work for Extension? An examination of job satisfaction and motivation in a statewide employee retention study. Journal of Extension, 52(3), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.52.03.04
Harder, A., Lamm, A., & Strong, R. (2009). An analysis of the priority needs of Cooperative Extension at the county level. Journal of Agricultural Education, 50(3), 11–21. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2009.03011
Harder, A., Narine, L. K., & Wells, O. (2019). Organizational Priorities for Advancing Cooperative Extension in Selected Urban Counties in Florida. Journal of Agricultural Education, 60(1), 96–108. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2019.01096
Harder, A., Place, N. T., & Scheer, S. D. (2010). Towards a competency-based Extension education curriculum: A Delphi study. Journal of Agricultural Education, 51(3), 44–52. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2010.03044
Hartmann, K. (2025). Cooperative Extension in indigenous communities: Characteristics of successful educators. Journal of Agricultural Education, 66(1), Article 37. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.v66i1.2572
Hartmann, K., & Martin, M. J. (2021). Cooperative Extension in indigenous communities: Characteristic of successful programs. Journal of Agricultural Education, 62(3), 9–19. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2021.03009
Hatch, C. J., Burkhart-Kriesel, C., & Sherin, K. (2018). Ramping up rural workforce development: An Extension-centered model. Journal of Extension, 56(2), Article 24. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.56.02.24
Heifetz, R. A., Grashow, A., & Linsky, M. (2009). The practice of adaptive leadership: Tools and tactics for changing your organization and the world. Harvard Business Press.
Hill, P. A., & Narine, L. K. (2023). Ensuring responsible and transparent use of generative AI in Extension. Journal of Extension, 61(2), Article 13. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.61.02.13
Hill, P. A., Narine, L. K., & Miller, A. L. (2024). Prompt engineering principles for generative AI use in Extension. Journal of Extension, 62(3), Article 20. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.62.03.20
Hill, P. A., Narine, L. K., Rushton, J. L., & Clint J. Reid. (2024). Extension partnerships for innovative programming: A community-based training on artificial intelligence for workforce development. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 12(3), 8. DOI: https://doi.org/10.55533/2325-5226.1488
Ingram, P. D. (2006). The change agent states for diversity project: The catalyst team approach. Journal of Extension, 44(5), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4508
Ingrao, A., Carpenter, C., Lotspeich-Yadao, M., & Tolbert, C. (2026). Are Extension agriculture programs hitting their target with military veterans?. Journal of Extension, 64(1), Article 12. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5545
Israel, G. D., Diehl, D. C., Galindo, S., Ward, C., Ramos, A. K., Harrington, M., & Kasner, E. J. (2020). Extension professionals' information use, protective behaviors, and work-life stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Extension, 58(6), Article 5. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.06.05
Jackson, R. C., & Day, S. H. (2005). Extension connection: Workforce development and Cooperative Extension working hand-in-hand. Journal of Extension, 43(6), Article 6. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4719
James, B., Sparks, E., Davey, F., Duncan, B., & Chau, N. (2026). Collaboration is key: Improving and increasing inclusive programming through partnership. Journal of Extension, 64(1), Article 7. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5621
Jones, K. R. (2022). Towards a more effective leader: Planning for the next Extension administrator. Journal of Extension, 60(2), Article 16. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.60.02.16
Kalambokidis, L. (2004). Identifying the public value in Extension programs. Journal of Extension, 42(2), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4778
Kalambokidis, L. (2011). Spreading the word about Extension's public value. Journal of Extension, 49(2), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.49.02.01
Kaufman, A., Dickinson, W. P., Fagnan, L. J., Duffy, F. D., Parchman, M. L., & Rhyne, R. L. (2019). The role of health extension in practice transformation and community health improvement: Lessons from 5 case studies. The Annals of Family Medicine, 17(Suppl 1), S67-S72. https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.2409
Klerkx, L. (2020). Advisory services and transformation, plurality and disruption of agriculture and food systems: Towards a new research agenda for agricultural education and extension studies. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 26(2), 131-140. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2020.1738046
Klerkx, L. (2021). Digital and virtual spaces as sites of extension and advisory services research: Social media, gaming, and digitally integrated and augmented advice. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 27(3), 277-286. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2021.1934998
Lamm, A. J., Lamm, K. W., Byrd, A. R., Yazdanpanah, M., Gabler, N. K., Johnson, A. K., Sanders, C. E., Masambuka, F., & Retallick, M. S. (2025). When machines speak science: Testing consumers’ perceptions of AI-Generated communication messages. Journal of Applied Communications, 109(3), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.4148/1051-0834.2594
Lamm, A. J., Owens, C. T., Telg, R., & Lamm, K. W. (2016). Influence of source credibility on agricultural water use communication. Journal of Applied Communications, 100(3), Article 12. https://doi.org/10.4148/1051-0834.1235
Leuci, M. S. (2005). The role of middle leaders in fostering organizational learning in a state cooperative extension service[Doctoral dissertation]. University of Missouri-Columbia. https://doi.org/10.32469/10355/4137
Leuci, M. S. (2012). The nature of organizational learning in a state Extension organization. Journal of Extension, 50(3), Article 35. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.50.03.35
Martin, M. J., Leuci, M., & Stewart, M. (2014). Challenges of engaging local stakeholders for statewide program development process. Journal of Extension, 52(1), Article 24. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.52.01.24
McKee, R. K., Talbert, B., & Barkman, S. J. (2002). The challenges associated with change in 4-H/youth development. Journal of Extension, 40(2), Article 7. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5123
Mensah, E. A., Swortzel, K. A., & Osman, N. (2026). Towards the integration of generative AI into the Cooperative Extension service: Insights for guiding professional development. Journal of Agricultural Education, 67(2), Article 14. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.v67i2.3302
Merriam, S. B., & Tisdell, E. J. (2016). Qualitative research: A guide to design and implementation (4th ed.). Jossey-Bass.
Moncloa, F., Diaz-Carrasco, C., Hill, R., & Erbstein, N. (2019). Effective engagement with latino youths and communities. Journal of Extension, 57(2), Article 18.https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.57.02.18
Moncloa, F., Horrillo, S. J., Espinoza, D., & Hill, R. (2019). Embracing diversity and inclusion: An organizational change model to increase intercultural competence. Journal of Extension, 57(6), Article 25. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.57.06.25
Moore, L. L., & Rudd, R. D. (2004). Leadership skills and competencies for Extension directors and administrators. Journal of Agricultural Education, 45(3), 22–33. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2004.03022
Moore, L. L., & Rudd, R. D. (2005). Extension leaders' self-evaluation of leadership skill areas. Journal of Agricultural Education, 46(1), 68–78. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2005.01068
Moore, L. L., & Rudd, R. D. (2006). Leadership styles of current Extension leaders. Journal of Agricultural Education, 47(1), 6–16. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2006.01006
Mueller, A. (2020). Mentoring in action model—Exploring the mentoring process in Nebraska Extension. Journal of Extension, 58(5), Article 22. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.58.05.22
Murray, K. A., Trexler, C. J., & Cannon, C. E. B. (2020). Queering agricultural education research: Challenges and strategies for advancing inclusion. Journal of Agricultural Education, 61(4), 296–316. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2020.04296
Myers, J. D. (2008). Interacting with your gay and lesbian colleague. Journal of Extension, 46(4), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4096
Narine, L., Harder, A., & Zelaya, P. (2019). A qualitative analysis of the challenges and threats facing Cooperative Extension at the county level. Journal of Southern Agricultural Education Research, 69(01), 1-13. https://jsaer.org/index.php/jsaer/article/view/21
Newbury, E., Humphreys, L., & Guess, L. (2014). Over the hurdles: Barriers to social media use in Extension offices. Journal of Extension, 52(5), Article 14. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.52.05.14
Nourani, S. W., Decker, D. J., & Krasny, M. E. (2019). Extension as a multilevel bridging organization: Supporting networked environmental governance. Journal of Extension, 57(5), Article 4. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.57.05.04
Ono, S. S., Crabtree, B. F., Hemler, J. R., Balasubramanian, B. A., Edwards, S. T., Green, L. A., Kaufman, A., Solberg, L. I., Miller, W. L., Woodson, T. T., Sweeney, S. M., & Cohen, D. J. (2018). Taking innovation to scale in primary care practices: The functions of health care Extension. Health Affairs, 37(2), 222-230. https://doi.org/10.1377/hlthaff.2017.1100
Parsons, M. (2015). Social media tools for the Extension toolbox. Journal of Extension, 53(2), Article 33. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.53.02.33
Roberts, T., Barry, D. M., Bunch, J., Browning, S., Dossett, J. C., Easterly, R., Goff, C., Jagger, C., Montealegre, J., Myers, B. E., Nesbitt, H., Steward, J., & Switzer, J. (2025). The land-grant university’s role in lifelong workforce development in food, agriculture, and natural resources: Leveraging the relationship between academic and Extension programs. Journal of Extension, 63(4), Article 8. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5681
Ruemenapp, M. A. (2017). America's changing urban landscape: Positioning Extension for success. Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 5(2), 6–21. https://doi.org/10.54718/SHDR3948
Scheer, S. D. (2023). Strategies to advance antiracist programs: Why they matter. Journal of Extension, 61(1), Article 14. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.61.01.14
Schmiesing, R. J., & Safrit, R. (2006). Is there justice? Seeking fairness in Cooperative Extension programs during times of change. Journal of Extension, 44(2), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4406
Szczepaniak, M., Francis, S. L., Litchfield, R., Genschel, U., Coleman, S., & Naig, A. (2025). Reaching tomorrow’s Extension customer: A food and health needs assessment. Journal of Extension, 63(2), Article 22. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.63.02.22
Sherin, K. M., & Burkhart-Kriesel, C. (2018). Cooperative Extension's past and present investment in workforce development. In T. S. Gutzmer & D. W. Rahn (eds.), Investing in America's workforce: Improving outcomes for workers and employers (pp. 227–242). W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research. https://doi.org/10.17848/9780880996683.ch13
Sott, M. K., & Bender, M. S. (2025). The role of adaptive leadership in times of crisis: A systematic review and conceptual framework. Merits, 5(1), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.3390/merits5010002
Stafne, E. T. (2013). A view of digital scholarship in Extension. Journal of Extension, 51(5), Article 2. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.51.05.02
Torraco, R. J. (2005). Writing integrative literature reviews: Guidelines and examples. Human Resource Development Review, 4(3), 356–367. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534484305278283
Uhl-Bien, M., & Arena, M. (2018). Leadership for organizational adaptability: A theoretical synthesis and integrative framework. The Leadership Quarterly, 29(1), 89-101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.leaqua.2017.12.009
Varghese, B. B., Gopinath, P. P., Paul, M. M., Chandrakumar, A., Radhakrishnan, G., Sonia, N. S., & Balasundaram, A. (2026). Integrating AI chatbots for advisory support in black pepper cultivation: A case study on stakeholder acceptance. The Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension, 1–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2025.2610194
Walker Bravo, A., Narine, L. K., Elliott-Engel, J., Sparks, E., & Alford, W. (2025). Enhancing Extension professionals’ career trajectory: Evaluating the Western Extension Leadership Development (WELD) program. Journal of Extension, 63(2), Article 3. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.63.02.03
Wallace II, H. M., Jayaratne, K., Warner, W., Bloom, J., & McKeown, J. (2025). Agricultural Extension agents’ current usage of social media in Extension work and challenges they face. Journal of Extension, 63(4), Article 15. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.5556
Ward, B. C., Drake, D., & Londo, A. (2009). Extension: A modern-day Pony Express? Journal of Extension, 47(2), Article 10. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.3680
Washington, R. R., & Fowler, S. R. (2005). Systematic assessment of resistance to Extension organizational change: Evidence from the Alabama Cooperative Extension system. Journal of Extension, 43(2), Article 11. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4605
Webster, N., & Ingram, P. (2007). Exploring the challenges for Extension educators working in urban communities. Journal of Extension, 45(3), Article 19. https://doi.org/10.66752/1077-5315.4267
Whittemore, R., & Knafl, K. (2005). The integrative review: Updated methodology. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 52(5), 546–553. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2648.2005.03621.x
Worley, B., Peake, J., & Fuhrman, N. (2022). Perceptions of agricultural Extension and communication professionals regarding current, preferred, and emerging communication channels: A qualitative study. Journal of Agricultural Education, 63(4), 22–38. https://doi.org/10.5032/jae.2022.04022
Yukl, G., & Mahsud, R. (2010). Why flexible and adaptive leadership is essential. Consulting Psychology Journal: Practice and Research, 62(2), 81–93. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0019835
Downloads
Published
How to Cite
Issue
Section
