Rollie Deering Named Â??friend of Extension’ for Supporting Cooperative Extension Education, Outreach

Rollie Deering, Yuma, was honored Sept. 26 with the Friend of Extension award at the annual Colorado State University Cooperative Extension banquet in Fort Collins. The award recognizes Coloradoans who have been supportive of Colorado State University’s land-grant mission to share research based information and education through Cooperative Extension.

Deering has supported Colorado State Cooperative Extension for years. His involvement with the organization began when he joined 4-H when he was 9 years old and has continued until the present with his involvement in serving on many advisory boards and committees.

"Rollie embraces the mission of Cooperative Extension and has enabled our organization to make more significant impacts in communities in Eastern Colorado than we might have without his help," said Milan Rewerts, Colorado State Cooperative Extension director.

Deering was nominated for the award by several Cooperative Extension agents in the region who note his commitment to support and guide Cooperative Extension educational efforts, his excellent listening skills and ability to effectively lead groups.

Deering has served in various leadership roles that relate to Cooperative Extension including the Yuma County Fair Board, the state Cooperative Extension Advisory Council, the Golden Plains Area Agricultural Advisory Committee, the Eastern Colorado Research Center advisory committee, 4-H clubs, the Yuma County Farm and Ranch Improvement Association and the Golden Plains area gifts and grants committee. Deering also has served on committees to hire various Cooperative Extension positions within the region. Deering’s community involvement also includes supporting FFA and Young Farmers organizations.