By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University Extension honored key supporters at the 2025 Spring Conference held April 8-10 in Fargo. Individuals were recognized for their significant contributions to Extension programs and services.
The Friend of Extension award, the highest honor, was presented to the director of Adult and Aging Services at the North Dakota Department of Health & Human Services and a Cass County agricultural leader. Their dedication to Extension’s mission of supporting rural communities and agriculture was highly appreciated.
“NDSU Extension has had a long-standing partnership with the Adult and Aging Services Division around mutually shared goals, such as understanding the concerns of older adults and their family members, working to promote aging in place in our rural state and improving the health and well-being of aging adults,” says Lynette Flage, NDSU Extension associate director. “Working with Nikolas-Maier and her team around these mutual goals has helped NDSU Extension expand its reach, and we are grateful to have a friend who supports and strengthens our work to improve the lives of all North Dakotans.”
Another honoree has supported NDSU Extension’s agricultural efforts by hosting soil health research sites and facilitating programs in the community. Their contributions to promoting soil health and agricultural research have helped advance farming practices in North Dakota.
“Larry has been a strong advocate of Extension programs and has offered valuable input on Extension programming needs,” says Flage.
The 2024 Friend of Extension award was given to a long-time advocate who has served on several Extension councils and boards, helping to shape effective programs.
“JoAnn’s input and guidance has helped us identify programming needs and respond to the ever-changing needs of North Dakotans,” says Flage.
Additionally, the North Dakota Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences recognized Marie Hvidsten for her dedication to leadership development and community wellness programs.
“The North Dakota Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences is honored to recognize Marie Hvidsten with this award,” says Dustin Hammond, vice president of public affairs for NDEAFCS.
Photo Credit:north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, General