Jessica Hoover is the newest addition to the West Virginia University Extension team in Pendleton County, where she recently began her position as an agriculture and natural resources agent and assistant professor.
While Hoover comes from a career as an underwriter, she has agricultural roots that span much further. Growing up on a beef cattle farm in Franklin, West Virginia, and being raised in both 4-H and FFA, she knew she wanted to work in the agriculture industry her whole life.
“I’ve lived on a farm in Pendleton County my whole life, so agriculture is really what I’m passionate about. This feels like where I was meant to be,” Hoover said. “The sense of community in this area is really strong. Everyone looks out for others, and if you need something, there are always people who are willing and able to help.”
Hoover has a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness management and rural development from WVU, and master’s degrees in strategic management and human resources, both from Liberty University.
“My professional goals align with WVU Extension's mission and values, so this opportunity is especially exciting. I am most looking forward to becoming a resource for the people in the community and to help them any way I can to achieve the goals they have for themselves,” Hoover said.
Because of her roots, Hoover is already connected and involved in the communities in Pendleton County. She is on the Board of Directors of the Pendleton County Chamber of Commerce, the Tri-County Fair Swine Committee, as well as being involved with the West Virginia Farm Bureau, where she is the Region 2 vice chair of the Women’s Leadership Committee and a member of the Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee.
“Our agriculture and natural resources program is vital to many audiences in the state, and our Extension faculty are dedicated to helping each of them succeed in their own endeavors,” Ronnie Helmondollar, director of WVU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources, said. “Jessica brings a strong background in agriculture to our team in Pendleton County, and she will be a wonderful asset to that community and beyond.”
If you want to learn about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
-WVU-
slk/05/29/24
CONTACT: Sydney Keener
Communications Specialist
WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement
304-293-8986; Sydney.keener@mail.wvu.edu