Elevating Extension: Update on Key Developments
March 10, 2026
Submitted by Gregg Hadley
I want to give an update on key developments as we continue work to Elevate Extension and improve the services we provide throughout Kansas.
On Feb. 27, Dan Moser and I met with staff from Extension Operations, Communications Solutions, and the College of Agriculture and Extension Business Services to discuss upcoming organizational changes.
During that meeting, we introduced new organizational structures for business operations and communication services across extension and the College of Agriculture/Ag Experiment Station. Some responsibilities will stay largely the same but will shift to new departments or reporting lines. Others will develop into new roles that will be posted for recruitment.
Discussions about operational structure, service delivery, and potential impacts on staff are ongoing. Currently, we can share that Communications Solutions will be integrated into the Division of Communications and Marketing. The editing and publishing of extension educational materials will transfer from Communications Solutions to the Office of Extension Programs.
Finance and human resources functions for K-State Extension will be supported by the University Administrative Service Center(s). Financial and HR support for the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education will stay within the College of Agriculture/Ag Experiment Station Business Services unit.
Change on this scale is never easy. Some colleagues have already received early, informal notices that their roles may be restructured or potentially eliminated. The uncertainty that comes with this change is understandably stressful. We ask for compassion, patience, and empathy for your business and communication colleagues as we navigate this transition.
As a reminder, K-State’s move to Elevate Extension to the university level directly supports the Opportunity Agenda. This change enhances our work in community health, sustainability, global food security, biosecurity and other areas, and it reaffirms our dedication to strengthening the Kansas economy and its diverse communities. It also deepens extension’s integration with the university’s research and engagement efforts.
K-State remains dedicated to expanding extension’s resources and influence. Kansas continues to face significant challenges, ranging from population decline and childcare shortages to healthcare gaps, digital divides, housing shortages and economic uncertainty. But K-State and extension are uniquely positioned to assist. With multidisciplinary expertise and a presence in all 105 counties, we have the reach and capacity to make a meaningful difference.
We are committed to sharing updates clearly and promptly as more details become available. Thank you for your dedication, patience and resilience as we move forward.
Please continue to support one another and reach out with questions as updates unfold.
