University of Illinois Extension | https://extension.illinois.edu/
University of Illinois Extension | https://extension.illinois.edu/
Goreville native named Extension’s top mentor
Jody Johnson is southern Illinois’ loudest cheerleader. From baseball fields to community development councils, wherever a need exists, Johnson is quietly connecting people with resources to improve their lives.
University of Illinois Extension honored Johnson with its Mentoring Excellence Award during an award ceremony held during the group’s annual conference in November in Urbana.
Johnson’s humble leadership is centered on meeting people where they are, says Doug Harlan, Extension assistant director.
“Jody is known as a patient, kind, and dedicated mentor who develops outstanding Extension professionals,” says Harlan. “He demonstrates daily the willingness to help others learn while bettering the communities in which they live.”
Johnson serves communities in Alexander, Johnson, Massac, Pope, and Union counties, many of which experience economic challenges. When he works with new Extension professionals, Johnson emphasizes the importance of communicating with county commissioners and other key stakeholders to ensure local funding is secured.
One of the many groups that benefit from Johnson’s vast network is the Southern Illinois Food Access - Regional Advisory Board. His leadership secured $250,000 for a Regional Health Equity Achieved Together (HEAT) project that has leveraged over $1 million to address food access in Southern Illinois. Work includes helping communities open grocery stores, sustain existing grocery stores, and expand food pantry access.
Angie Messmer, county director in the adjacent eastern cluster of counties, is the latest staff member to learn from the 15-year Extension veteran.
“Jody took the time to explain the needs and expectations of Extension,” says Messmer. “He is always there to answer questions and provide sound guidance, as well as keep me motivated with his ‘can-do’ attitude.”
Johnson’s appreciation for the region is home-grown. He lives and raises three sons in Goreville and is an avid sports fan. He received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
“Throughout his career, Jody has sustained a solid relationship with his staff and co-workers while continuing to work with the communities to grow and develop,” said colleague Lynn Heins, county director for counties in southwest Illinois. “This attitude and level of professionalism demonstrates the value of Jody’s commitment to Extension. Jody demonstrates a willingness to help others succeed.”
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