Debra Pankow, associate professor of child development and family science and Extension family economics specialist, was one of two Extension educators honored for individual contributions and leadership at the national eXtension conference in St. Louis. Pankow was honored for her work with the “Financial Security for All” community of practice. As first leader for the eXtension content on personal finance, Pankow motivated colleagues from across the country and devoted time and expertise to eXtension. She promoted the work of her community at workshops and conferences nationwide.
"Financial Security for All" was one of two communities of practice recognized for innovation and leadership in their respective areas of expertise. In 2005, eXtension started with eight content areas formed as communities of practice. "Financial Security for All" was one of those pioneer communities.
As the financial crisis hit the United States, the land-grant experts in personal finance found their work on eXtension in high demand. The group focuses their research-based information on financial stability, financial literacy for children through young adults and information on achieving financial security for those close to retirement. In addition to Pankow, members are from the University of Idaho, Purdue University, University of Vermont, University of Florida, Washington State University, Colorado State University, University of Maryland, Rutgers, Clemson University, The Ohio State University, Iowa State University and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture.
eXtension is the national initiative of the Cooperative Extension System to collaboratively develop resources for the public. More information is available at www.extension.org.