SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Karen Waite, Michigan State University Extension Equine 4-H/Youth Specialist was recognized by eXtension with a 2014 eXtension Community of Practice (CoP) Individual Achievement Award. The award was presented here at the National eXtension Conference/National Extension Directors & Administrators joint meeting, March 26.
“eXtension’s Individual Achievement Award recognizes an individual member of a Community of Practice for exceptional performance and leadership in meeting the needs of Communities of Interest and demonstrated long-term dedication, leadership and contribution toward meeting the needs of Communities of Interest; and their leadership role in fostering the development and growth of the Community of Practice,” said Elbert Dickey, eXtension Executive Director.
Karen has been a part of HorseQuest, eXtension’s first Community of Practice, since 2006. In 2007, she helped establish the first eXtension partnership between Michigan State University Extension’s My Horse University and HorseQuest to share resources and work together for funding opportunities. Karen has contributed toward articles, Ask an Expert questions, learning lessons and webcasts. Karen has also enhanced HorseQuest scholarship through collaboration on grants, professional publications, and presentations with other CoP members.
“Karen has led two of HorseQuest’s largest efforts, the HALTER series and the Youth Horse Safety Series. And, Karen’s participation has resulted in state and national recognition including by NAE4-HA, JCEP’s Teamwork Award and recent recognition by Michigan State Extension’s iTEam Technology in Programs Award and by the Michigan Horse Council with their Catalyst Award,” said Craig Wood, eXtension Associate Director.