The Alabama Cooperative Extension System congratulates County Extension Directors Katernia Cole-Coffey, Landon Marks, Millie Murphree, Eric Schavey and Rachel Snoddy on their recent recognitions at the annual Alabama Extension county directors meeting.

County Extension Director of the Year

Cole-Coffey was named the 2025 County Extension Director of the Year. This award is given to a director who demonstrates exceptional educational impact through programming and partnerships, professional development and active involvement in professional organizations. As the Franklin County Extension director, she has positioned Extension as a vital and responsive resource for a county that is marked by poverty and growing diversity. Serving the community for more than 20 years, Cole-Coffey fosters a positive and inclusive culture by engaging all community members, regardless of their background.

Generator Award

Two county Extension directors were awarded the 2025 Generator Award: Marks (Cherokee County) and Schavey (Etowah County). This recognition honors county directors whose efforts lead to lasting impact and sustainable growth, excelling in generating funds and in-kind support, engaging volunteers and building strong community partnerships. Marks and Schavey worked together to secure more than $5,000 in sponsorship funding for the Cherokee-Etowah 4-H Pig Squeal project. They also secured the facilities and volunteers needed to make the program a success. Both being in their county director roles less than two years, their efforts showcase their leadership and dedication to the youth in Cherokee and Etowah counties.

New Achiever Award

The 2025 New Achiever Award went to Murphree, the Extension director in Escambia County. This award celebrates a promising county director who shows great potential in making impactful contributions through their work with Alabama Extension. It also recognizes their dedication and potential for future achievements. As a leader, Murphree has cultivated a culture of transparency, teamwork and professional growth in her county office. Her emphasis on mentoring new employees and building strong collaborations with agents and specialists is one of the reasons she received this award.

Eye of the Tiger Award

Snoddy was named the 2025 Eye of the Tiger Award recipient. This recognition honors a county director for their innovative and creative programs that reach and/or expand new audiences, showcasing originality and impactful work. Snoddy is the county Extension director in Chambers County. She received this award in part because of work with the OnMed telehealth station placed in Chambers County through the Auburn University Rural Health Initiative. Read more and watch a video about Snoddy’s work with the OnMed telehealth station at aces.edu/discover.