On September 15, over 300 people visited OSU South Centers to celebrate our first 20 years of providing Extension, research, and development in southern Ohio. We took this opportunity to recount past projects and recognize all the dedicated staff members and partners who have contributed to the South Centers' work over the years. We showcased our ongoing Extension and research projects with tours and exhibits, hosting those who have experienced our programs in the past, as well as visitors who came to see our facilities and programs for the very first time.
Our guests included legislators, OSU administrators, former staff members, supporters, friends and family. A luncheon was followed by a recognition program that was highlighted with remarks by former Ohio Senate President Doug White of Adams County and the former Directors at OSU South Centers, Bob Rades of Indiana and Don McFeeters of Vermont. Throughout the afternoon all buildings, research facilities, and field trials were open to the public for tours, educational activities and lots of fun along the way.
Our first 20 years have brought progress and success through our programs and activities focused on Aquaculture, Business Development, Fruit and Vegetable Crops, and Soil, Water and Energy Crops. All our programs benefit greatly from the strong administrative support base and collegial interactions with faculty and staff associated with the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center and OSU Extension.
These years have brought together an excellent team of experienced OSU South Centers staff members that are creative, entrepreneurial, and flexible as they strive to address agricultural, industry, and community needs in a constantly changing environment. Our staff have succeeded by understanding that above all else, the work at South Centers is people focused. Our mission centers upon assisting people in making informed decisions through research, education, and partnerships. Programs are focused on audiences within industry, communities, and groups at all levels, including local, regional, and statewide as well as multi-state and through international collaborations. Our vision is to conduct objective research and unbiased educational programs; develop leadership capacity both internally and within our audiences; to facilitate technology advancement, and to help people be the best that they can be while conveying respect, helpfulness, and responsiveness to all people.
As we look forward, we are all enthusiastic about finding additional ways to assist people with greater impact as well as by reaching new clientele. We expect to continue to be flexible and ever vigilant to new opportunities to engage our audiences with targeted programs as well as to serve new and expanded numbers of people. We are confident that through collaborative efforts and partnerships with many clientele, public agencies and development organizations, our shared goals can be accomplished.
Most of all, we look forward to continuing our work with each of you, the friends and colleagues that are at the center of what we do every day. As always, if there are ideas that you want to share with us or feedback on any of our programs, do not hesitate to contact me or any of our staff members.
