Brief Biography from Kate:
I hold a Bachelor of Science and Masters of Agriculture in Agricultural Business and Economics from Auburn University and have been with UGA Extension since 2006. I was previously the Peach County Extension Coordinator and 4-H Agent before transitioning to the role of Extension Specialist, 4-H Animal Science Programs- Equine and Poultry. I’ve been involved in the equine industry my entire life. As a youth, I competed in all-around events in 4-H and at Quarter Horse Shows. In college, I rode on the Auburn Equestrian team showing horsemanship and reining and worked for Meneely Show Horses. I have been a member of and shown in the American Stock Horse Association, American Ranch Horse Association and AQHA. My background has allowed me to work shows on a national level where I ring steward, scribe, and announce.
Current Position and Future Goals:
As the Extension Specialist, 4-H Animal Science Programs- Equine and Poultry, I coordinate all the Georgia 4-H equine and poultry programs. This includes coordinating state contests like Horse Quiz Bowl, Horse Judging, Hippology, State Horse Show, and Poultry Judging. In addition to coordinating events, I serve to support, train, and educate UGA Extension faculty and staff, create curriculum and support youth projects. My ultimate goal is to build a 4-H equine program that supports both Georgia youth and families and empowers our county Extension faculty and staff.
Ashley Best, Newton County Extension Coordinator & Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent