MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia University Extension welcomes Samantha Cogle as the Extension agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources in Harrison and Marion counties.
Growing up on a cattle farm, agriculture has always been a major part of Cogle’s life, and through her new role, she’s ready to use her knowledge to serve the Harrison and Marion communities.
Cogle is a three-time graduate of the WVU system. She received both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees in agricultural and extension education from West Virginia University’s Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design. She also earned her associate degree in agricultural and environmental education from WVU Potomac State College.
Since graduating, Cogle has been utilizing her education training as a teacher for a childcare center in Harrison County.
A native of Jefferson County, she was a member of her local 4-H club and FFA and continued her involvement with both at the collegiate level.
“I’ve always been one to want to share what I know about agriculture with others,” said Cogle. “Though I could’ve taken the traditional teaching path with my degree, WVU Extension Service allows me to use my passion to help people of all ages. I’m looking forward to getting out into the community and building relationships with the people of Harrison and Marion counties, bringing the two areas together when possible.”
As an agriculture and natural resources Extension agent, Cogle will work directly with the residents and businesses in Harrison and Marion counties to identify the agricultural needs and opportunities for growth throughout the communities. She plans to continue to build upon the strong horticulture presence of the area, which is evident through each county’s well-established Master Gardener program. But she also hopes to find innovative ways to increase both interest in livestock showing and support for livestock producers.
“There’s been a true need for the type of local agricultural support only WVU Extension agents can provide in the Harrison and Marion areas for some time,” said Ronnie Helmondollar, program director of WVU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources program unit. “She’s no stranger to WVU Extension or agriculture, and we’re excited that Samantha will be the one supporting these communities.”
Connecting the people of West Virginia to the University’s resources and programs is the primary goal of WVU Extension Service and its 55 offices throughout the state. Local experts, like WVU Extension’s agents and specialists, work to help improve the lifestyles and well-being of youths, workforces, communities, farms and businesses through trusted research in the counties in which they serve.
To learn more about WVU Extension programs, visit extension.wvu.edu, or contact your local office of WVU Extension.
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hb/7/19/18