There is a time in everyone’s career to move forward to new experiences, so it’s with a lot of mixed feelings that I am announcing May 1 as my retirement date.

I have enjoyed working with our growers, homeowners, residents, and county administration during my tenure. I began this role as County Extension Director in July 2016, just months before Tropical Storm Julia and Hurricane Matthew. Since that time, we have experienced several weather events, moved our office twice, COVID-19, commodity price swings, and staff changes. I feel fortunate to have worked with talented and energetic staff who kept our clients, the citizens of Bertie County, in the highest regard and strived to serve them well. Thank you to all who have patiently helped me and our team by serving on our advisory councils, providing feedback on our programs, supporting our youth programs, and volunteering time and resources for on-farm trials and demonstrations. I believe Bertie County is a stronger community because of your interest, time, and sacrifice.

Best wishes to each of you, and if I can be of any help in the future, please feel free to contact me.