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Extension welcomes new Bryan County staff
bryancountyextension
Bryan County's office is part of the University of Georgia Extension in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. - photo by UGA screenshot

The Bryan County Extension recently welcomed four new staff members.
Here are the new members and their thoughts on joining the staff:
• Karen Puchala, office administrator: “I am a graduate of Bryan County High School where I was an active participant in 4-H from fifth through 12th grades. After high school, I attended Georgia Southern University. I completed the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training at Armstrong Atlantic State University. I was a police officer for five years, and for the past eight years, I have been a 911 dispatcher. I have been married to my husband, William, for eight years, and we have one daughter, Catherine, who is very active in her school with soccer and cheerleading.”
• Sandra Scott, state 4-H program assistant with the Youth and Families with Promise Grant: “I graduated from Georgia Southern with a degree in child and family development with an emphasis in family services. I currently attend Savannah State University, studying masters of social work. I am looking forward to working with the youth and community members of Bryan County. I love to create hands-on learning experiences to enrich young people’s lives. The Youth and Families with Promises program is always looking for positive mentors ranging from 16 years of age to senior citizens. We will plan various activities for families throughout the year and are always looking for a helping hand. Suggestions from the community are always welcomed. I am excited to be working with Bryan County.”
• Paul “Alex” Floyd, 4-H program assistant: “I am a seventh-generation Georgia farmer/forester, with five of those being in Bryan County. I am a deacon of the Pembroke Christian Church and a Bryan County 4-H alumnus. I graduated from Pinewood Christian Academy in 2009 and Georgia Southern in 2013. I am married to Kristen Zepplin, who teaches pre-K at Lanier Primary. I enjoy working in the yard, reading, coffee and the Pembroke auction. I’m looking forward to building our 4-H program and learning from others.”
• Trish West 4-H agent and county extension coordinator: “I received my first blue ribbon at the age of 10 at the 4-H dog show, and I have been a die-hard 4-Her ever since. I have a bachelor’s degree from Armstrong Atlantic State University and a Master of Agricultural Leadership from the University of Georgia. I have four children, two of which are Master 4-Hers. I love this job, and I am so excited to be in Bryan County. I am eager to build a 4-H program that can reach every child in Bryan County.”
Rounding out the staff, Barbara Dubose has worked for Bryan County Extension for over 25 years. Recently retired, Barbara has come back on board as a consultant.

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