Two faculty members from West Virginia University Extension Service’s Family and Community Development unit were nationally recognized for their dedication and commitment to meeting the needs of West Virginia individuals, families and communities at the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences Annual Session.

Cheryl Kaczor, Marshall County WVU Extension Service agent and associate professor, received the highest award presented by the organization, the Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes members for leadership, educational program efforts and professional development.

The Continued Excellence Award was received by Andrea “Andi” Hoover, Greenbrier County WVU Extension Service agent and associate professor. The award recognizes a past recipient of the Distinguished Service Award who continues to be actively involved in professional improvement programs, the promotion of professional development of others and leadership.

“It is wonderful to see our dedicated faculty recognized by their peers on a national stage,” director of WVU Extension Service Family and Community Development program Tony Michael said. “Our people truly love our state and that passion shows in their work.”

Along with the two national awards, additional members of the WVU Extension Service Family and Community Development unit were recognized on a regional level for their work in community partnerships and environmental education.

The National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences educates and recognizes Extension professionals who improve the quality of life across their states by providing education on food preparation, food safety and nutrition, financial management, healthy lifestyles, relationship and parenting skills, and more.

For more information about WVU Extension Service, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.