In 1976, Dorothy began her career in a temporary role that led to becoming a 4-H Extension Agent, District Program Leader, District Director, and 4-H Extension Specialist in Virginia, as well as the Assistant Extension Director and State 4-H Leader, and the Associate Dean and State 4-H Program Director with the University of Minnesota Extension Center for Youth Development. After retirement, she became a contractor with the National 4-H Council as the Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion and led the effort to develop the National 4-H Diversity Strategic Plan and the True Leaders in Equity Institute. As a Virginia volunteer she serves as President of the Airfield 4-H Educational Center board of directors.
Leadership is a term most often associated with Dorothy. Her ability to inspire staff and create collaborative partnerships led to the development of the GROW GREEN initiative, resulting in a 38% increase in 4-H participation within Minnesota. Similarly, she spearheaded efforts in Virginia to proactively engage at-risk youth in the 4-H experience, demonstrating her commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Dorothy’s leadership extends to the national level, where she served as President of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents (now NAE4-HYDP), Co-Chair of the 2002 NAE4-HA National Conference, as well as the Chair of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP). While serving in roles with NAE4-HA, she developed the DSA pin and envisioned 4-H’s efforts with children at-risk; she worked with the NAE4-HA Board to initiate this effort which became known as CYFAR.
