You're joining one of the boldest and most successful educational partnerships in the world. The NDSU Extension Service has a proud history in North Dakota dating back to 1914 when the Cooperative Extension Service came into being through the federal Smith-Lever Act. Obviously, knowledge and methods have changed in nearly a century, but Extension's dedication to the people of North Dakota is as dynamic and alive as ever. The purpose of the NDSU Extension Service is to create learning partnerships that help adults and youth enhance their lives and communities. This short sentence says much.
Extension is a grassroots organization that serves local needs.
Notice the purpose doesn't specifically say agriculture or families or youth. Though our efforts especially emphasize some areas, we carry out interdisciplinary programs to meet local needs. Our vision is to be a premier lifelong education network that helps North Dakotans improve their quality of life. To achieve that vision, we will strive to be innovative, adaptable and willing to take risks to create new ways of thinking, learning and addressing issues. Get Involved Print out the NDSU Extension Service purpose and post it in your office or keep it and other information you'll be gathering through this Web orientation in a three-ring binder with your Extension Staff Directory.