Members of the Austin County Extension Education Association recently joined fellow members from across Texas in College Station for a special milestone — the 100th anniversary of the Texas Extension Education Association.
The organization celebrated its centennial during its state conference, themed “Crowned in a Century of Purpose.” The gathering recognized a century of education, leadership, volunteerism and community service while honoring the generations of members who have helped shape the organization and its work throughout Texas.
Austin County was proudly represented at the celebration, giving local members an opportunity to be part of the organization’s history while also preparing for the work still ahead.
Throughout the conference, attendees participated in educational sessions offering practical information, fresh ideas and useful resources that can be brought home and shared with local EEA members and their communities. The conference also included fellowship, recognition and special activities celebrating the organization’s 100 years of service.
Representing Austin County were Veronica Ashorn, Gaye Farr, Shirley Beum, Jessie Kokemor, Jo Ann Reichle, Doris Glenewinkel, Joan Buenger, Knellen Quinteros, Judy Schulz and Pat Allee. Buenger, Farr and Schulz also served as acting delegates during the conference.
While reaching the 100-year mark offered plenty of reason to celebrate the past, the conference also focused on carrying the organization’s mission into the future. Local members returned to Austin County with new information, resources and ideas they can share as they continue their involvement in education and community service.
Organizations can change considerably over the course of a century, but the heart of the Extension Education Association remains centered on people — learning together, sharing knowledge and using that knowledge to strengthen their communities.
For Austin County members, the centennial conference was an opportunity to celebrate that long tradition while representing the local community alongside EEA members from throughout the state.
As the Texas Extension Education Association begins its next century, Austin County EEA members will continue to be part of that story, carrying forward a tradition of learning, leadership, friendship and service that has already spanned generations.
