معرفی
Nancy Shelstad is an Acting 4-H Director and Area Extension Educator in the 4-H Youth Development program at the University of Idaho Extension, Southern District. She holds dual responsibilities at both the state and district levels, leading initiatives in youth programming, volunteer development, and staff training. Her work is centered on Positive Youth Development (PYD) and the 4-H Thriving Model, with a strong emphasis on innovation and statewide program consistency.
Her educational background includes a Master of Science (2006) and a Bachelor of Science (1985), both from the University of Idaho. These degrees provide the foundation for her applied research and extension work in youth development.
Nancy's research and extension interests focus on Positive Youth Development, the 4-H Thriving Model, 4-H volunteer development, and career exploration for youth. She promotes PYD across all aspects of 4-H programming and contributes to national professional development efforts. Her work bridges academic research with practical outreach, ensuring that youth and volunteers receive evidence-based, impactful programming.
The articles she has authored or co-authored reflect a consistent focus on youth development, educational programming, and extension resources. Themes include career exploration, volunteer facilitation, financial literacy, youth retention, and practical life skills such as public speaking and cooking. Her publications appear in respected outlets like the Journal of Extension and Journal of Youth Development, emphasizing applied research and curriculum development.
- Promotional Piece Team Award, National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals, 2023
- Excellence in Volunteerism Team Award for New Volunteer Orientation package, 2022
- Excellence in Teamwork Award for Build Your Future, 2020
- Educational Package Team Award for the 4-H Staff Orientation Guide, 2020
- Excellence in Workforce Development Programming Team Award, 2019
- Meritorious Service Award, National Association of Extension 4-H Agents, 2019
Nancy has played a significant role in advising and leading teams across multiple projects, including the development of statewide 4-H programs like 4-H Outside the Box and Build Your Future. She has led the creation of 20 staff development modules and contributed to national curriculum efforts with NASA and the National 4-H Thriving Model team. While formal graduate student advising is not mentioned, her mentorship of educators and volunteers is evident. She has secured recognition through numerous team-based grants and awards, reflecting strong collaborative leadership and program impact. Nancy has also served in national leadership roles, including Vice President of Member Services on the National Board of Trustees of the National Association of 4-H Youth Development Professionals (2021–2023).
Nancy leads and collaborates with multiple teams, including the statewide 4-H staff, county 4-H coordinators, and national 4-H professional networks. She has chaired operations for national conferences and led curriculum development teams for Dutch Oven cooking and staff orientation. Her work is deeply embedded in collaborative, team-based extension education and youth development initiatives.
