University of Minnesota Extension Educator Nicole Kudrle has been named the 2024 Minnesota Farm Bureau Extension Educator of the Year. She was honored during the organization’s 106th Annual Meeting on Nov. 22 in Minnetonka. 

 

Kudrle serves North St. Louis County in a variety of capacities as an Extension Educator. Over the past seven years, she has significantly increased youth and adult volunteer participation in 4-H programs by 60% through her leadership and engagement initiatives.

 

Her collaborative efforts with local partners and volunteers have strengthened 4-H’s capacity to meet community needs. Nicole has also contributed to the 4-H Agriculture and Horticulture Program Team, co-designing educational project kits and facilitating programs that connect youth with agriculture. She also developed the 4-H Virginia Grows After School Program, targeting underrepresented youth in the Virginia Public School District.

 

Nicole led the efforts to create a 4-H Market Livestock Ribbon Auction in St. Louis County, which is now in its fourth year. She collaborates with organizations like Farm Bureau and has organized workshops to educate youth on livestock management.

 

Outside of her professional work, Nicole and her husband operate a small farm, engaging their three children in farming activities and selling excess produce at local markets. Her unwavering commitment to youth development and agricultural education makes her a vital advocate for both 4-H and the broader agricultural community.