2009 ESP Logo 2009
Epsilon Sigma Phi Conference


Holiday Inn
September 13 - 16
Fargo, ND

ESP logo


2009 Poster Presentations


Presenters:  Vicki Hayman, Extension Educator, University of Wyoming, and Cole Ehmke, Extension Specialist, University of Wyoming,                    
Title:  Developing a Mentoring Program: Insight from On-Going Extension Programs
Track: Emerging Leadership – Mini Grant
Abstract:  In 2008 the Eta chapter received an ESP mini-grant to assist with the development of mentoring resources. This poster presents results about the extent of mentoring programs in the West (primarily) and lessons to keep in mind when initiating one.

Presenter:  Karen Joos, Family Living Educator/ Department Head – Monroe County, Wisconsin  
Title:  Rent Smart – A Tenant Training Program
Track:  Program Development
Abstract: Rent Smart provides practical education to help people looking for rental housing acquire and keep decent housing. It stresses both tenant and landlord responsibilities. Foreclosures, evictions and economic changes have increased need for this program. Evaluation data indicates participants better understand the topic and acquire information they will use. 

Presenter:  Cole Ehmke, Extension Specialist, President of Eta, Wyoming
Title:  Welcome to Wyoming!
Track:    PROMOTION – 2010 Meeting
Abstract: 2010 ESP - Jackson, Wyoming October 12 - 15. Surrounded by the stunning Teton Range, Jackson is a gateway to the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks and the National Elk Refuge, a ski resort, and home to several world-class arts organizations. Find out more before planning your trip next year!

Presenter:   Grace Wittman, Extension Educator, University of Idaho,
Title: Exergames Increases Physical Activity
Track: Program Development
Abstract: Obesity has become a serious health concern for children and adolescents.  The state of Idaho currently has an obesity rate of 10.1% for children ages 10-17.  As a response to this, the Nintendo Wii was introduced into a 4-H afterschool program in Southern Idaho as another avenue for physical activity.

Presenter:  Noah Washburn, Associate District Director – Ouachita District, University of Arkansas Extension
Title: Grant Writing Strategies for Extension Professionals  MINI GRANT
Track:  Program Development
Abstract: The Alpha Iota chapter utilized the Professional Development Mini Grant to sponsor a grant workshop during a joint professional development conference.  The workshop was for both beginners and experienced grant writers to develop ideas into winning proposals, target potential funders and understand the full proposal development, submission and review process.

Presenter: Christine Pasley, University of Wyoming Extension Educator - Nutrition & Food Safety 
Title: Excellence in Extension Nutrition and Food Safety
Track: Emerging Leadership
Abstract: In representing Extension across the country, educators must have skills to consistently provide excellent programs and materials.  Do educators have those skills?  The University of Wyoming Extension Nutrition and Food Safety Initiative considers some means of "certification" a way to maintain consistency and excellence in programs, educational materials, and expertise.

Presenter: Cole Ehmke, Extension Specialist, University of Wyoming  
Title: “Urban Extension in the West: Programs Extension Services Are Offering and Why They Are Successful”
Track: Program Development
Abstract: As America and the West urbanizes, Extension’s traditionally rural focus has opportunities to reach new audiences. This poster reports the results of a 2008 survey of extension personnel in the 13 Western states which asked about the type of programming being offered to urban audiences and why the programming was perceived as being successful.

Presenter:  Jerold Thomas, Leader Innovation and Change, Ohio State University 
Title:  “Forecasting Trends With an Organizational Environmental Scan”
Track:  Program Development
Abstract:   Extension systems are experiencing unprecedented change and need to explore futuring techniques to help identify potential opportunities and threats. One potential tool is environmental scanning. This poster describes the various steps that Ohio State has used to create an environmental scanning process.

Presenter:  Marlyne R. Walker, Extension Associate, Clemson University
Title: “Engaging Preschoolers & Evaluating Program Outcomes”
Track:  Program Development
Abstract: Practical tools, to combat childhood obesity, used in the classroom to empower and engage preschoolers to make healthy lifestyle choices will be presented. Identify child health statistics and specific health issues relating to lifestyles trends in U.S. and South Carolina. Discuss a community nutrition education program and kid-friendly evaluation tools.

Presenter: Joey Peutz, Extension Educator, Canyon County, Idaho
Title: Workplace Issues in Extension                            
Track: Emerging Leadership
Abstract: Use the Delphi technique to determine and prioritize workplace issues to attract, motivate and retain extension educators/agents over the next 5-7 years.  The problem addressed is one of determining the leadership imperatives in extension which will be required to populate the field with talent as current educators/agents retire and new employees are needed.

Presenter: Eleanor Wilson, Assistant Deputy Administrator, Extension Service, USDA, Retired; Educational Consultant, 4-H Volunteer
Title:  Why 4-H History Preservation?
Track: Program Development, Globalization, Life Members
Abstract: Acquaint yourself with the national 4-H history preservation efforts including the exhibit at the National 4-H Center and the National 4-H Fellows History. Get an update on what states and counties are doing to preserve and display 4-H history and how you can be involved in that effort.

Presenter: Scholarships, Grants & Recognition Committee, Doug Jardine, KS, and Committee Members
Title: “Reaping the Benefits of ESP Membership”
Track: Professional Development
Abstract: Acquaint yourself with the opportunities provided by ESP for scholarships, grants and recognition.  Information will be shared on new opportunities and changes in existing programs.