By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension professionals received national recognition for their outstanding work in agricultural education, research, outreach, and leadership.
The honors were presented during the National Association of County Agricultural Agents (NACAA) Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference, held July 8-12, 2026, in Denver, Colorado.
The annual awards recognize Extension professionals who demonstrate excellence in serving agricultural producers, communities, and educational programs. Several members of the SDSU Extension team earned awards, finalist positions, and leadership appointments during the national event.
Robin Buterbaugh, SDSU Extension Horticulture Field Specialist, received the NACAA Achievement Award, which recognizes Extension professionals with fewer than 10 years of service who have shown outstanding performance. She was also named a national finalist in the publication and bound book/eBook communication categories. Her recognized publication, "Native Plants for Bird Habitat in South Dakota," and her garden activity book highlight her efforts to support gardening, native plants, and community education.
Patrick Wagner, SDSU Extension Entomology Field Specialist, earned a national communication award in the Published Photo category for his image of flea beetles on canola. The photograph is used in educational materials that help producers identify insect pests.
Sydney Paulsen, McCrory Gardens Education Coordinator and SDSU Extension Horticulture Assistant, was recognized as a national finalist for her "McCrory Gardens Spring and Summer 2026" newsletter.
Connie Strunk, SDSU Extension Plant Pathology Field Specialist, was elected the 112th president of the NACAA Board of Directors, becoming only the third woman to serve in that position. She emphasized the importance of supporting Extension professionals as agriculture and communities continue to change.
Laura Edwards, SDSU Extension State Climatologist, was named a national finalist in the Search for Excellence – Environmental Quality, Forestry and Natural Resources program. She also participated in the Leadership Academy and delivered a conference presentation.
Heather Gessner, SDSU Extension Livestock Business Management Field Specialist, served as chair of the national Search for Excellence committee.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, General