معرفی
Barbara Petty is the Associate Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and Director of University of Idaho Extension, a dual leadership role that underscores her significant contributions to academic administration and outreach. She is based at the E. J. Iddings Agricultural Science Laboratory in Moscow, ID, and oversees a statewide extension network focused on agricultural, family, and community development.
- Ph.D. in Education, University of Idaho, 2007
- M.S. in Human Development and the Family, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, 1984
- B.S. in Education, Southwest Missouri State University, 1977
Barbara Petty's research and extension work centers on family and consumer sciences, with a strong emphasis on community leadership development, financial literacy for youth and families, nutrition, public policy engagement, and outreach to underserved rural populations. Her work integrates education, behavioral change, and community partnerships to strengthen family resilience and civic participation.
Her publication record reflects a consistent focus on expanding the reach and impact of extension programs. Themes include leadership training for public service, media-based outreach, financial education for teens, marriage enrichment, and identity theft prevention. These works demonstrate a multidisciplinary approach that bridges education, behavioral science, and public service, with a strong commitment to practical, community-centered solutions.
- USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Partnership Award (2011)
- Secretary’s Honor Award, U.S. Department of Agriculture (2003)
- National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Florence Hall Award (2007, 2003)
- USDA Priester Award (2006)
- Multiple national and state-level awards for community partnerships, media outreach, and educational programming
Barbara Petty has led major grant-funded initiatives such as the Horizons Program and multi-state Medicare education projects. She has supervised extension faculty across 16 counties and mentored numerous extension professionals. Her administrative leadership includes curriculum development, program evaluation, and strategic outreach expansion. She continues to guide statewide and regional extension efforts, ensuring alignment with community needs and academic excellence.
Barbara leads the University of Idaho Extension system, which operates through county offices, research centers, and specialized programs in agriculture, youth development (4-H), family and consumer sciences, and natural resources. She also chairs the Board of Directors for Northwest University in Kirkland, WA, reflecting her broader influence in higher education governance.
