Ten Questions with Connie Hancock, UNL Extension Educator

Connie Hancock took her first job out of college with the University of Nebraska's Extension office. That was 35 years ago, when the Kearney native had completed degrees from Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska-Kearney.

It's no wonder the extension educator refers to the program as "a system I believe in."

Hancock came to the Sidney office in 1995. She divides her time between Sidney and Kimball, allowing her to direct the extension service in three panhandle counties.

1. You know you're a long way from Lincoln.

We are part of the land grant system, so we provide outreach programs.

2. What do you cover?

Locally I'm in Cheyenne, Kimball and Banner Counties. I have an office in Sidney and in Kimball. But I'm also part of the broadband initiative, which is statewide.

3. So the extension office is not just involved in agriculture?

Right. We're well know for ag research, but not as well known for our community vitality work--creating 21st Century communities, developing and growing rural business and engaging youth and young adults.

4. Rural community issues are ...

For this effort today--broadband--it's about adopting to new technology and using the resources available so we can be more efficient. We shouldn't be afraid of the tools, but we need to make wise decisions about how to adapt them.

5. Farmers and ranchers have been quick to adopt new technologies, haven't they?

There are still some that are traditional. But most see the benefit to their bottom line by using the tools available.

6. How many programs do you offer in a year?

Quite a few. Part of my work has been focused around helping small business owners with marketing tools, marketing strategy. The face to face programs we do less of. Friday we're starting Power of Business live chats for business owners who can't get away from their business. This allows them to ask questions of an entrepreneur. We believe the entrepreneurs are experts, so we're excited about this venture. Then we will have the information on a website, powerofbusiness.net.

7. What is the most satisfying aspect of all this?

When we share information and people take that information and use it. That's extremely satisfying.

8. How often do you travel to Lincoln?

More times than I like to admit. But at the same time, with technology I can be video conferenced in. It helps me not have to travel as much. That's been a great asset.

9. As a UNL employee are you forced to be a Huskers fan?

No, I'm not forced. I graduated from UNL, so it's natural. Born and raised in Nebraska.

10. But if you had to live somewhere else you would choose?

I don't know that there's a better place than Nebraska. I've lived in the eastern part of the state, the central and the west. I don't have a favorite. They each have unique characteristics.