As the University of New Hampshire begins its celebration with events commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I want to reaffirm my commitment to UNH Cooperative Extension's Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity responsibilities. Extension staff conduct exemplary efforts to meet federal and state mandates. We also work beyond those mandates by exhibiting outstanding civil rights spirit and leadership.

I remain committed to the implementation of unbiased employment practices and the delivery of educational programs that serve all people of New Hampshire, with particular efforts to include under-served and under-represented groups. I'm proud to be part of an organization that values Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity, and is consistently sensitive to the needs and rights of others.

Along with our UNH Cooperative Extension Guide to Civil Rights, we continue to focus on program delivery and outreach to underserved audiences.This past year, we conducted formal Civil Rights training at three regional meetings in the fall for our staff, and participated in a federal Civil Rights review at the state level, as well as in Strafford and Hillsborough counties.

I ask you to again read this message carefully and fully comply with our commitment to serve all people fairly and equally. Thank you for your personal and professional commitment to all people in New Hampshire.