Rory Lewandowski, Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources, Wayne County, is retiring from Ohio State University Extension on July 29, 2020. Rory has served agricultural clientele in Guernsey, Noble, Athens, and Wayne Counties during his twenty years with Ohio State University Extension.
As an Extension Educator and Certified Crop Advisor (CCA), Rory focused much of his teaching on forages, pesticide use, nutrient management, and farm financial management. Rory worked tirelessly to serve the needs of his clientele. Farmers locally and across Ohio benefitted from his knowledge and expertise. His ability to make every lesson unique and meet the needs of his audience is commendable.
Rory was a member of the Ohio Joint Council of Extension Professionals, National Association of County Agricultural Agents, Epsilon Sigma Phi National Extension Fraternity, Ohio Sheep Industry Association, and Ohio Cattleman’s Association. Rory was recognized with numerous awards for his exemplary teaching, research, and service, including the Steven D. Ruhl Award for Outstanding Teaching, Leadership, and Service from Ohio State University Extension; Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents; Mid-Career Award from Epsilon Sigma Phi; and the Ohio Sheep Industry Distinguished Service Award. In addition, Rory was recognized by his professional associations for his outstanding teaching, winning eleven awards.
Rory and his wife Marcia have accepted a three-year assignment in Cambodia with the Mennonite Central Committee. They will focus on peace and justice as they help people learn to work out their differences as opposed to resorting to violence. This is not their first experience with the Mennonite Central Committee, having served in Bolivia from 1989 – 1992 and 1996-2000.
Those of us who have had the pleasure of working with Rory are better because of his teaching, leadership, and friendship. His efforts have made an impact on the communities he has served, and he will carry his style of servant leadership into retirement.
In keeping with Rory’s wishes, an in-person gathering will not be held. However, anyone interested in sharing memories, pictures, stories or well wishes may do so by clicking on this link: https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/yIDiZU6S
We wish Rory the best in his retirement!