March is always a special time for UT Extension offices across Tennessee as we celebrate Extension Month, highlighting the vital role Extension plays in strengthening families, supporting agriculture, and empowering youth. UT Extension Union County is proud to serve our community by providing research-based education and hands-on learning opportunities for farmers, families, youth and community leaders.

What is UT Extension?
As part of the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, UT Extension works in all 95 Tennessee counties, delivering programs that improve lives. In cooperation with Tennessee State University, Extension brings practical knowledge to local residents, focusing on areas such as:
- 4-H Youth Development – Leadership, life skills and hands-on learning for the next generation.
- Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) – Health, nutrition, financial literacy and family support.
- Agriculture & Natural Resources – Support for farmers, gardeners and landowners.

Join Us for Our Annual Extension Open House!
Union County Extension celebrated Extension Month with our annual Open House on March 27. Highlights of this year’s event included:
-Countywide 4-H Photography Show – Vote for your favorite entry in the People’s Choice Award!
-Countywide 4-H Baking Contest – Sample delicious treats from local 4-H bakers.
-Meet Your Extension Agents – Learn about 4-H, FCS, and Agriculture programs.

Meet Your Union County Extension Team
Union County Extension is led by a dedicated team of professionals committed to serving the community:
- Shannon DeWitt, County Director & Agriculture Agent – Specializing in Beef Cattle Education, Pesticide Safety, and Gardening Classes.
- Abigail Thomas, Family & Consumer Sciences – Offering Family and Community Education Club, parenting classes, financial education, and canning workshops.
- Sarah Stokely-Cook, 4-H Agent - Engaging 4th-12th graders in hands-on 4-H learning.
- Beth Bergeron, 4-H Program Assistant – Engaging 4th-8th graders in hands-on 4-H learning.
- Josh Bowlin, Administrative Assistant – The first friendly face you’ll see in our office!

4-H & Youth Development: Growing Future Leaders
Union County 4-H provides countless opportunities for youth to develop leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. Programs include:
- Livestock Showing & Judging – Youth raise and exhibit cattle, sheep, poultry, goats, and swine.
- Public Speaking & Demonstrations – Competitions that build confidence and communication skills.
- 4-H Camp – A summer favorite with swimming, shooting sports, fishing, and nature exploration.

If you have a child interested in 4-H camp or other activities, reach out to our office soon—summer camp deadlines are fast approaching!

Get Involved with UT Extension!
Whether you’re a farmer looking for resources, a parent seeking youth programs, or a community member eager to learn new skills, UT Extension is here for you. We encourage you to stop by to learn more about the opportunities available.

Union County Extension Office
865-992-8038
union.tennessee.edu
Facebook: @UTExtensionUnionCounty

Let’s continue growing a stronger Union County together!