Close to 70 guests, including state legislators and other dignitaries, joined members of our State Advisory Council Wednesday, Sept. 26, at The Common Man in Concord to listen to the new University of New Hampshire President, Mark Huddleston, and chair of the University System of New Hampshire Board of Trustees, Andrew Lietz, discuss their position, UNH’s outreach role through Extension and their vision for the future.

Also a highlight of the dinner was the presentation of a proclamation, signed by NH Speaker of the House Terie Norelli, honoring long-time 4-H Camps supporter John Saturley. State Rep. Carla Skinder of Cornish, who had requested the proclamation, presented it to John, who attended the dinner with his wife, Doris. (They are shown in the photo to the left.)

Lietz, in his opening comments, talked about how UNH Cooperative Extension helps ensure a quality of life throughout New Hampshire and how Extension “engages citizens” at all levels. He went on to say that Cooperative Extension is “cost effective’ and that “we are counting on you in the future.”

In introducing President Huddleston, Lietz told the audience “the President of UNH has to believe in the Land Grant responsibilities to outreach and advocate for public service.” He added that he found these qualities in the new UNH president, the 19th to serve in this capacity.

President Huddleston agreed, noting that it was the “sense of outreach and public service” that led him to UNH, adding that he was thankful for the opportunity that led him back “to this place where my heart is” in the public sector. (He is shown at left with former State Advisory Council member Terry Picard of Dover.)

He fielded questions from the audience, including the concern for keeping agriculture alive in New Hampshire, for recognizing the North Country of New Hampshire, and for increased funding for our 4-H camps.

Alex Ray, owner of The Common Man Restaurants, welcomed the group. Also on hand were UNH Foundation President Don Wilson, USNH Chancellor Steve Reno and USNH Trustee Merle Schotanus.

For the full version of Lietz's comments, click here.