The National Extension Climate Initiative (NECI) was formed in 2019 by Extension faculty and staff, concerned that a more concerted effort was needed within and between states and regions and at the national level to coordinate and manage climate outreach activities, share resources, provide networking opportunities, and promote professional development.
The National Extension Climate Initiative serves to link climate change-related education and research across Extension program areas and associations. This effort is open to all Extension professionals as well as professionals involved or interested in higher education climate education outreach and research. We have the following objectives:
- Promote climate education and research throughout the Extension system.
- Communicate regularly through inclusive and transparent practices.
- Represent and coordinate participating Land and Sea Grant Universities, national associations, and related committees, organizations and partnerships.
- Pursue active learning and collaborative efforts that enhance professional development.
Vision Statement
We envision a future in which Cooperative Extension recognizes the urgency of the climate crisis and is actively engaged in creating communities that ensure environmental and human health, social equity and justice, and economic vitality for all generations.
Executive Committee
Per the NECI Operating Guidelines, the NECI Executive Committee is tasked with oversight of the Initiative. The current members of our Executive Committee are:
- David Kay, Cornell University, NECI Chair
- Caroline Marschner, Cornell University, Secretary
- Paul Lachapelle, Montana State University, NECI Immediate Past Chair and Chair, Communications Working Group
- James Shope, Rutgers University, Curriculum Development Working Group
- Linda Seals, Partnerships and Policy Working Group
- Wendy Hamilton, New Mexico State University (Emeritus Professor), Chair, Evaluation and Surveys Working Group
- Tracy Morgan, Washington State University, Chair, Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion Working Group
- Temporarily Vacant, Professional Development Working Group
Copyright © 2022–2025, National Extension Climate Initiative. All rights reserved.
National Extension Climate Initiative 