Smith wins GACAA Friend of the County Agent Award
Posted on Nov 12, 2009 by Mark von Waldner, Eddie McGriff |
The Center of Innovation for Agribusiness’ acting director, Donnie Smith, was recognized on Tuesday for the GACAA (Georgia Association of County Agricultural Agents) “Friend of the County Agents” award.
Donnie Smith, as Governor Sonny Purdue Agricultural Liaison and Acting Director of the Center of Innovation for Agribusiness, has been a strong supporter of agriculture and the Extension Service. As Governor Purdue’s liaison, Donnie coordinated efforts to have retiree funds paid for by the University instead of being taken out of Extension’s budget. Donnie is also a strong advocate for county agents and specialists. He was a key factor in increasing funds to be used to fill vacant county agent positions. In 2009, Donnie was instrumental in the passage of a successful 2010 Extension budget despite a weak economy.
Donnie has been a farmer for over thirty years and a frequent user of Extension. He was a vocal supporter as a farmer and in his leadership role in Farm Bureau. He has been a great sounding board for Extension projects and an advocate for them with Governor Purdue and the Legislature.
He has played a key role in getting Ag Appreciation Day at the State Capitol. He has been a tireless force in promoting agriculture as the number one industry in Georgia. He has supported both 4-H and vocational agriculture in their budget requests, particularity Rock Eagle’s request for a new dining hall and with the Agriculture tag.
Donnie’s door is always open to Extension, and he is always willing to listen and help make Georgia’s agriculture better.
Tagged: ag, county agents, extension, award
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