Exceeding at Extension Award
The Exceeding at Extension Award recognizes individuals whose creative and innovative approaches spark admiration and inspire others — colleagues who have used creative approaches or piloted new frameworks that have made a difference in meeting key areas of need such as diversity/inclusion, program development, program support, addressing emerging issues and promoting academic engagement. Recipients of this award show a deep sense of commitment to the mission of Extension and are interested in promoting the organization through an excellent work ethic.
The recipient of the Exceeding at Extension Award was Nate Bernitz, a field specialist in Community and Economic Development serving the NH Seacoast Region. Nate's commitment to Extension's mission is exemplified by his initiation and successful launch of a Leadership Development Cohort.
The idea for the Cohort emerged from an all-staff survey that revealed there was room for more opportunities for leadership development. Recognizing this need, Nate, a member of the Professional Development Committee, took the lead in conceptualizing and implementing the cohort model within just six months.
The program, featuring guest speakers, leadership self-assessment, networking and peer-to-peer learning, engaged Extension leadership and provided valuable professional development for staff. Beyond that, Nate's innovative framework created a safe and shared space for addressing situational challenges. Participants noted the significant social and emotional learning occurring at each session, emphasizing its value alongside the presented material.
Nate's program not only fosters leadership skills but also promotes diversity and inclusion within the organization. It recognizes that everyone possesses the potential to enhance their leadership capabilities, contributing to the overall strength of Extension and the University of New Hampshire's public engagement and outreach.
Excellence in Collaboration & Partnerships Award
The Excellence in Collaboration & Partnerships Award recognizes individuals or teams for their efforts to build effective collaborations within Extension or with partner organizations throughout the state including with academic departments within the University System of N.H. Recipients have leveraged partnerships to develop impactful programs and opportunities that engage the public and strengthen Extension’s outreach.
The recipient of the Excellence in Collaboration & Partnerships Award was Sara Oberle, a field specialist for the Health & Well-Being Team. Sara focuses on leveraging community-clinical linkages to reduce health disparities, with a focus on diet-related disease. A key figure in the Strafford County Healthy Living Workgroup, Sara's partners attribute the success of their collective efforts to her expertise, strategic planning, facilitation skills, leadership and creative thinking.
In 2023, Sara created new partnerships with the UNH Institute on Disability and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center to enhance food security through the implementation of Vital Signs of Hunger screenings. She also leads the UNH Dietetic Internship Program, collaborating with Extension staff, university professors, schools and community organizations to mentor dietetic Interns.
Sara's collaborative initiatives are sparking innovation, enhancing capacity and making a positive impact on New Hampshire's most vulnerable populations.
Excellence in Support Award
The Recognition Committee launched a new award, which recognizes individuals and teams for their outstanding performance and service to UNH Extension with the Excellence in Support Award. Recipients of this award produce quality work and consistently display characteristics valued and appreciated by co-workers. Recipients' commitment to contributing to the Extension mission, purpose, vision and values are displayed through dedication to identifying and meeting needs of the organization, developing and implementing innovative solutions and producing high quality outputs, most often behind the scenes.
Michelle Lemos, a senior program assistant with NH Sea Grant, was awarded the Excellence in Support Award. Michelle is dedicated to meeting organizational needs by supporting multiple groups within NH Sea Grant. She also helps in the Extension Volunteer Managers group and serves in leadership roles in the Extension Assistants Team. Michelle successfully coordinated the relocation of the NH Sea Grant office to its new campus location, showcasing her ability to tackle significant tasks. She consistently addresses needs, leveraging her skills to streamline processes and enhance day to day operational efficiency. Michelle’s drive, motivation and can-do attitude inspire staff, volunteers and partners.
