The Iowa Extension Council Association is made up of a 25-member board of directors who represent the 900 county extension council members in the State of Iowa. Extension council members are elected officials who oversee the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach efforts in their county. These elected officials are responsible for the county's Extension and Outreach budget, directing the county's Extension and Outreach program, and hiring the employees to carry out the work that serves the needs of Iowans.
2026 Legislative Day
Extension Council Day on Campus a Hit in Year 2
The September 12 Extension Council Day on Campus provided a chance for great tours, good food, and exceptional camaraderie as extension council members learned about the ISU research that translates to the programs you offer in your county.
In addition to tours, council members heard from ISU and IECA leaders:
- Assistant Vice President for County Services Andrea Welchans talked about the new expectations for staff serving in the County Services unit.
- IECA Executive Director Jennifer Vit provided an update on the optional IECA dues assessment, including the decision to hire a lobbyist to help with governmental affairs on behalf of extension districts.
- Athletic Director Jamie Pollard shared an update on CyTown and the economies of how it will become an economic driver 365 days a year.
- Vice President Jason Henderson provided a luncheon address and thanked councils for their support and engagement.
Evaluation results indicate that participants overwhelmingly feel more connected to campus following the event. The following comments highlight the enthusiasm council members have for this event:
- “I enjoyed all of my day. I am a first-time extension council member; this tour really enabled me to see more of the partnership with ISU.”
- “The enthusiasm and knowledge of the faculty member who conducted the greenhouse tour was impressive! He has a true understanding of balancing extension, the students, research, growers and impact.”
- “Loved seeing campus and getting updated on expansion projects. Loved connecting with other county extension council members. Excited to share with my local council and hope more members will be able to attend in the future.”
- “Excellent opportunity to learn about the unbiased work that is being done, the passion, the impact on not only Iowa but the country and beyond. Energizing!”
- “I really understood my purpose of being on the council.”
- “In the networking and chatting on the bus, you just learn more and more that these are good people who care about their community!”
- “The quality of the tour was amazing! The representatives in each department were so knowledgeable, and it was very fun to listen to them and engage with them. 10/10!”
Additional photos are available to view. Watch for information on next year’s Extension Council Day on Campus coming soon!
Video: Understanding Roles within Extension
Video: Understanding Roles within Extension
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is a big organization with a complex partnership between ISU and your county extension district. This session will help outline "who's who" and "who does what" at the county, regional, state, and federal levels, as well as how it impacts you as a council member. And, no, there won't be a quiz at the end of the session.
Video: How Councils Can Co-Create the Future of Extension
Video: How Councils Can Co-Create the Future of Extension
Hear Vice President Henderson's explanation of the current funding climate for extension and learn how county extension councils can position their county programs for sustainability in the future.
Video: Reading the Monthly Financial Reports
Video: Reading the Monthly Financial Reports
Watch Video and View Resources
Your county extension council was created as a taxing authority to collect and allocate dollars, according to Iowa Code Section 176A. But do you know how to read the monthly reports you receive? Learn what to look for and how to use the information to ensure your budget is progressing as planned throughout the year.