Dr. Johnsrud began as asst. county agent in Williams Co. in 1965. He served as Director, Cooperative Extension Service at NDSU before appointment as Administrator, USDA Extension Service in 1986. When congress questioned the lack of focus of extension programs, Johnsrud led an important change toward issues programming. CSREES programs such as children, youth and families at risk, water quality, food safety and pesticide management, reflect this issues programming concept. Johnsrud was pivotal in leveraging a $6 million grant from the Kellogg Foundation to National 4-H Council. This “Community Cares” grant resulted in Fund Developers Institutes; Youth Development Institute; TAXI curriculum; and centers of Action in childcare, collaboration, and science and technology literacy.
In 1990 Johnsrud was commissioned by USDA to establish the first major adult education program in Poland on managing agribusiness firms and farms in a market-driven economy. Dr. Johnsrud’ interest in the engaged institution concept led to trainings and discussions by national extension directors and administrators, the Committees on Organization and Policy and NASULGC. The 21st Century Extension Service document, prepared with Dr. Johnsrud’ support and with research and education partners as integral team members, has been used by all Extension services to plan for the future and to integrate Extension work more fully into the broad work of the university. He has truly been a visionary leader for the entire Cooperative Extension system.
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