Nancy Snook has completed bachelor and master degrees in agricultural education at Ohio State. She has spent more than 25 years as a 4-H youth educator, and currently serves as the 4-H Youth Development Educator in Noble County, Ohio.
[ACEL]: Hi Nancy! Why did you select a major in Agriculture Education?
[Snook]: I chose agricultural education with an emphasis on extension education because I wanted to be a 4-H Youth Development extension educator.
Why did you choose to attend The Ohio State University?
I wanted a career in agriculture, so The Ohio State University was the logical choice. I had been on the OSU campus for various 4-H and FFA activities as a high school student, so it was familiar to me. It also offered so many possibilities.
How did your education at Ohio State influence your choice of career or your career path?
I knew I wanted a career in agriculture, so I came to Ohio State for my bachelor’s degree. My second job out of college was as an associate Aagent for 4-H Youth Development, but I needed a master’s degree to be an extension agent. So, I worked full time and completed my Master’s in agricultural and extension education taking evening courses in Columbus. Once I completed my master’s, I decided extension education was my passion and the career path I wanted to stayed on.
When you were a student at Ohio State, what were you involved with outside of the classroom?
I was involved in Agricultural Education Society, Saddle and Sirloin Club, Phalanx, and the OSU Livestock Judging Team. I was also a work-study employee in the Department of Animal Sciences for two years.
What classes did you enjoy the most while at Ohio State?
I enjoyed my agricultural education and animal sciences classes the most. I can’t say that I had just one favorite class. When I went back to school for my master’s degree, I thoroughly loved all my extension education classes. They helped me grow as an extension professional.
Did a faculty member or professor influence you while a student?
Dr. Jo Jones. She challenged me to think outside the box and to consider all possibilities. I just loved her teaching style, her wisdom and her vast knowledge of extension education.
What is your favorite memory related to your time at Ohio State?
Being on the Ohio State Livestock Judging Team and being selected as one of the “Top 20 Seniors” in the College of Agriculture.
What was your first job following your education at Ohio State?
I was a feed sales representative for Countrymark, Inc.
Throughout your career, what positions have you held.
Feed Sales Representative for Countrymark, Inc. was my first job and then I have been a 4-H Extension Educator for 27 ½ years. I have been the 4-H Educator in Noble County for 14 years. Prior to that, I was a 4-H Educator in Ross County for 8 ½ years and in McCracken County, Kentucky for 5 years.
During your career, have you received any awards or honors?
National Association of Extension 4-H Agents – Distinguished Service Award
Epsilon Sigma Phi, Alpha Kappa Chapter – Mid-Career Service Award
OAEP State Achievement Award: 4-H Educators, Over 10 Years Service
Kentucky Association of Extension 4-H Agents – Distinguished Service Award
OEAA State Achievement Award: 4-H Agents, 2-10 Years of Service
Shenandoah High School Hall of Fame
Honorary Chapter FFA Degree Award from Shenandoah FFA Chapter
Noble County Cattlemen’s Association – Distinguished Service Award
As of today, what is your favorite career highlight?
When I have 4-H’ers from my county achieve success at the state and national levels.
What advice would you give to a current student?
Get involved in a club or organization(s), study abroad, do an internship and find a great advisor.
What did ACEL cultivate in you? How?
A desire for life-long learning. I learned through my Extension Education courses that people have a desire to improve themselves and their situations and life-long learning is the means to accomplish that. I also personally strive for life-long learning through taking classes, attending professional development opportunities and constantly reading books.
Congratulations Nancy Snook….Noble County has been Blessed to have you working with youth in the community.