Laura Perry Johnson 4-H Program Development Coordinator Southwest District

Updated 2/14/08

Dr. Laura Perry Johnson is currently the 4-H Program Development Coordinator for the 41 county Southwest District of the Cooperative Extension Service in Georgia. In this role, she serves as part of the leadership team for the district and has programmatic responsibility for 4-H in this geographic area. Additionally, she serves as part of the State 4-H Faculty to plan, implement and support 4-H Programming in Georgia. As a 4-H Program Development Coordinator, Dr. Johnson works with county-based Public Service Faculty that provide 4-H programming to youth. As a partner in public education, 4-H augments the formal education received in the classroom and provides opportunities for young people in the areas of agriculture and the environment, family and consumer sciences, citizenship, leadership and communications. Dr. Johnson mentors and trains new County Extension Agents and Program Assistants, gives leadership to developing County Plans of Work, coordinates district and statewide events, competitions and conferences, and serves as a Youth Development resource for the counties she serves.

Previously, 1994 – 2002, Dr. Johnson served as the statewide Extension 4-H Specialist, Animal Science where she managed the 4-H Animal Programs in Georgia. These programs included 6 species of livestock as well as companion animals and exotic animals. Examples of events coordinated were livestock and horse shows, educational schools, quiz bowl competitions, and judging contests. During her tenure in this position, the 4-H Animal Programs flourished and grew in both size and scope. Dr. Johnson was responsible for all aspects of these programs, including, but not limited to, curriculum and resource development; financial management and fundraising; promotions; facilitation of programs and events; as well as training of University of Georgia personnel and volunteers.