Across Utah, a farmer looking for ways to conserve water during a drought, a parent seeking help with financial literacy, an individual struggling with opioid addiction, a teenager finding confidence through a 4-H leadership program, and a small-business owner learning how to expand into e-commerce are all benefiting from the work of Utah State University Extension.
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For 112 years, USU Extension has brought the expertise and resources of Utah State University directly into communities across the state. As part of every land-grant university’s mission, Extension was founded on a simple idea that the work of a public university should improve the lives of the greater community.
Today, that mission is more important than ever.
Over the last few months, I’ve had the opportunity to visit 12 of our 28 extension sites and plan to visit the remaining locations in the coming months. USU Extension serves all 29 counties and has a physical presence in all but Daggett County.
During those visits, I’ve seen the incredible collaboration between county and extension leaders. I’ve heard about the needs assessment conducted in each county so that we can design programs and services to make sure we meet the needs of our communities. And I’ve learned from our incredible faculty and staff.
Utah faces complex challenges, including population growth, water scarcity, workforce shortages, rising mental health concerns among our youth, and the changing needs of both rural and urban communities. Addressing those challenges requires trusted relationships, local expertise, and practical solutions grounded in research.
This is where the transformative power of a land-grant university is most visible.
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Through offices and centers across Utah, extension sion helps agricultural producers conserve water, supports families through health and financial education, develops future leaders through 4-H and STEM programs, and strengthens local economies by assisting entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Extension also reflects the priorities that guide Utah State University. It expands access to educational opportunities in every corner of the state, supports student success and lifelong learning, translates research into real-world innovation, and builds trust through long-standing relationships with communities.
In a time when many Americans are asking what value higher education provides, extension offers one of the clearest answers. At Utah State University, we often emphasize our role as Utah’s land-grant university. Extension is one of the most visible and impactful ways we fulfill that commitment. It reminds us that the purpose of a public university is not simply to educate students, but to help solve problems, create opportunities, and strengthen the communities we serve.
The future of our state depends on healthy communities, informed citizens, thriving businesses, and strong families. Extension helps make that possible, which is why it remains one of the most important investments Utah can make.
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