Extension Employee Spotlight: Gary Rodgers
March is recognized as Extension Month, a time to highlight the work of local Extension offices and the people who serve their communities through education, outreach, and research-based information. The UT–TSU Extension Office in Hardeman County is proud to spotlight one of its longtime employees, Gary Rodgers.
Rodgers serves as the UT 4-H Extension Agent III and County Director for Hardeman County. With 27.5 years of service, he has dedicated much of his career to working with youth, families, and community partners to strengthen the county through Extension programs.
Through the 4-H youth development program, Rodgers has helped countless young people build leadership skills, gain confidence, and develop lifelong interests in agriculture, education, and community service. As County Director, he also works to support Extension programming across multiple areas including agriculture, horticulture, and family and consumer sciences.
When asked about his favorite part of Hardeman County, Rodgers said, “All of it!” He enjoys the opportunity to serve the entire community and work with residents throughout the county.
Rodgers also wants people to know that Extension is supported by a network of specialists. “One thing most people do not know about Extension is that we have connections with UT and TSU specialists in almost any area you can think of,” Rodgers said. “That allows us to help find answers and provide research-based information to the people we serve.”
After nearly three decades of service, Rodgers says the most rewarding part of his job has been the relationships he has built along the way. “My favorite part of Extension is all the relationships I have been able to build over the years. That makes this job worth it,” he said.
The UT–TSU Extension Office in Hardeman County continues to provide educational programs and resources for residents of all ages in areas such as youth development, agriculture, horticulture, and family and consumer sciences.
For more information about Extension programs in Hardeman County, contact the Extension Office at 210 Vildo Road in Bolivar or by phone 731-658-2421.
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