North Dakota State University Extension recognized individual and team achievements during its 2026 Extension Spring Conference, which took place April 7-9 in Fargo.
The awards highlight the work of faculty and staff who contribute to education, research, and outreach that supports agriculture and rural communities across North Dakota. North Dakota State University Extension and Ag Research News operates in the agriculture and natural resources sector, according to the official website.
This year’s honorees include Joe Ikley as Communicator of the Year for his efforts in making weed management information accessible. “Joe consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that the people of North Dakota have access to the most current, practical and effective weed management strategies,” said Bruce Sundeen, electronic media specialist for NDSU Agriculture Communication. “His genuine dedication to education and service represents the very best of NDSU Extension.”
Julie Garden-Robinson received the Epsilon Sigma Phi Distinguished Service Award for her leadership in food and nutrition outreach programs. “Julie has an exceptional ability to design, implement, evaluate and continuously improve high-impact Extension programs,” said Jim Gray, West District director for NDSU Extension. “Her career reflects extraordinary leadership, innovation and dedication to the land grant mission.” Other award recipients included Acacia Stuckle (Mid-Career Service Award), Janet Knodel (25 Year Tenure Award), Dixie Schulz (Meritorious Support Staff Award), as well as teams led by Miranda Meehan, Mary Keena (Emergency Response Preparedness program), Karla Meikle, Katie Thompson, Emily Burkett (Careers & Technical Education 4-H Camp).
North Dakota State University Extension functions as part of North Dakota State University according to its official website. The organization extends its services across North Dakota with a focus on education, research, extension services supporting agriculture in North Dakota according to information from their official site.
The institution also provides undergraduate and graduate programs related to agriculture, food systems, and natural resources according to their official website.
Photos of all spring conference award honorees are available at bit.ly/NDSUspringconference-26.
