The Extension Advisory Committee (EAC) for Montgomery County is composed of community stakeholders who inform UME about needs in the County, identify underserved audiences, and contribute concepts and ideas to inform UME programs. EAC members possess a personal interest in community development, the ability to see and reflect the needs of audiences that can be addressed by UME, and maintain a long-term focus to address these needs. 

The EAC liaises with Extension clientele and establishes priority activities for the 4-H Youth Development, Agriculture & Food Systems (AgFS), Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-ED), and Master Gardeners & Environment programs. 

Roles and Responsibilities

The EAC is a civil rights requirement from the National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA). Its' primary focus is to ensure individuals from underserved and underrepresented groups have a voice in UME programming from a plan of work and civil rights perspective. This focus includes community engagement, promotion of UME programs, as well as grassroots outreach, advocacy and representation.

As a requirement of our funding, per USDA NIFA, stakeholder input is sought on a variety of different levels, that may include:

  • Advice on priority setting and program development
  • Input on both immediate needs and long-term goals 
  • Participation in relevancy and portfolio reviews
  • Guidance on monitoring, evaluation, and oversight systems employed to track performance and results
  • Counsel on emerging technologies and recommendations for public education and discussion about the mission and directions of the University of Maryland

Current Members, Terms and Affiliated Programs

4-H Youth Development

  • Karen Al-Faleh (2023-25) - 4-H MD, Montgomery County 4-H
  • Kathy Fumagalli (2023-25)

Agriculture and Food Systems

  • Tyler Butler (2023-25)
  • Trenda Davison (2023-25) - Historic Site Manager, Agricultural History Farm Park, Montgomery Parks
  • Jennifer Freeman (2023-25) - Community FarmShare
  • Nia Nyamweya (2023-25)

Family and Consumer Sciences, EFNEP & SNAP-Ed

  • Annmarie Hart-Bookbinder (2023-25) (SNAP-Ed) - Director of Food Security Programs, Montgomery County Food Council
  • Jeanne Purich (2023-25) (FCS) - Montgomery County Association for Family & Community Education

Master Gardeners and Environment & Natural Resources

  • Marie Rojas (2023-25) - Horticulture, Ag/Master Gardener, IPM Consultant, Farmer in the Ag Reserve
  • Melissa Siegel (2023-25)
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