EXHIBITS
Partnership of the Extension Program and the College of Family Life: The Extension Post War to the Present
After the war, the Extension Program continued its partnership with the College of Family Life in providing educational opportunities to the State of Utah, as well as leadership roles for women. Thelma Huber was head of the Extension (known at the time as the state leader) from 1947 to 1963.[1] While heading the Extension she also headed the effort to help Native American communities, especially those in Uintah County. Under her direction agents gave instruction to these communities on home building and remodeling, as well as food preparation and storage. The agents also made an effort to learn more about Native American customs.[2]
In 1963, Dr. Margaret B. Merkley took Thelma Huber’s place, in which she served from 1963-1975. During that time the title was changed from state leader to associate dean.[3] One of Dr. Merkley’s valuable contributions to the program was her recognition that society had new needs that needed to be filled. With that in mind, a Women’s Symposium was held in Salt Lake City under the direction of Bernice Palfreyman. Nationally known speakers were part of the event.[4]
In 1975, Flora H. Bardwell became the associate dean for Extension in the College of Family Life. One of her great achievements was planning and creating the Senior Nutrition Aide Program (SNAP) for elderly people in Utah.[5]
During the last few decades, the Extension program has continued to grow in its efforts to provide education and assistance to families and communities throughout Utah. Currently the program includes areas of Agriculture & Natural Resources, Gardening, Health & Wellness, Home, Family & Food, Relationships, Utah 4-H program, and Utah 4-H & Youth.[6] It now has forty locations throughout Utah.[7]
The Extension Program continues to have a beneficial relationship with the College of Family Life and its faculty. Together, they have furthered the fields of agriculture and home economics at Utah State University and throughout the state. Their efforts also furthered the scope of women’s education; and because both the Extension program and the College of Family Life provided leadership roles for women, many women throughout the years have made a lasting impact in communities in both the public and private spheres.