North Dakota State University Extension recognized individuals and teams for their work in the past year at the 2026 Extension Spring Conference. The communicator of the year is Joe Ikely, NDSU Extension weed specialist. NDSU Extension Nutrition of Food Safety Specialist Julie Garden-Robinson received the Epsilon Sigma Phi Distinguished Service Award. The Epsilon Sigma Phi Mid-Career Service Award went to Acacia Stuckle, NDSU Extension family and community wellness agent in Emmons County. Janet Knodel, NDSU Extension entomologist, was presented the Epsilon Sigma Phi 25 Year Tenure Award. The Epsilon Sigma Phi State Meritorious Support Staff Award belongs to Dixie Schulz, administrative assistant in Stark-Billings County. The Program Excellence Award – “Emergency Response Preparedness for Foreign Animal Diseases and Mass Livestock Mortalities” (large group) and “Careers and Technical Education 4-H Camp” (small group).
