ALABAMA A&M and AUBURN UNIVERSITIES

Auburn, March 29---Genta Speakman, district Extension coordinator for the Anniston district, is retiring from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System March 31 after serving 33 years and 11 months with Extension.

 A graduate of Auburn University, Speakman earned her bachelor's degree in home economics, her master's degree in housing and equipment and an education specialist degree.

 Speakman began her career with Extension in 1960 as an Etowah County agent.
In 1966, she was promoted to an Extension home environment specialist and moved to State Extension headquarters on the Auburn campus where she served until 1996.  As a home environment specialist, Speakman provided valuable information to homeowners throughout the state and also coordinated  4-H electric energy and appliance demonstration competitions for district roundups and State 4-H Congress.

Then, in 1996, Speakman became a district Extension coordinator for the Selma District and coordinated Extension efforts in eight counties.  After serving almost two years, she transferred to her current position, district Extension coordinator, Anniston District, where she coordinated Extension efforts in 12 counties.

 When asked what she planned to do after retirement, Speakman said, "spend more time with my grandchildren, Lauren and Landon Speakman, and do some traveling."

 Speakman is one of 34 retiring Extension employees who will be honored for their years of service March 31.  A special retirement ceremony is set for 3:30 p.m. at the Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center Ballroom on the Auburn University campus.