Strength in Numbers

Published: 2022
By Veronica Baca

As Park County has struggled with labor shortages over the past two years, MSU Extension has also worked to fill staff positions. The office is fully staffed again, with a renewed direction and colleagues to discuss challenges and offer solutions. Heidi Nunnikhoven was hired in October as the Extension Financial and Education Program Coordinator. She knows and loves MSU Extension, coming from 10 years at Montana State University Extension as the Account Analyst for Nutrition Education Programs. She will be involved in a variety of community programs offered by MSU Extension Park County. While working at MSU Extension, she completed her Master's Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Sciences. She loves getting outside and exercising while doing tasks such as gardening or playing in the mountains on skis and bikes, and hiking with her husband Tony and daughters. Jackie Pondolfino began as the Agriculture and 4-H Youth Development Agent in Park County in September. Jackie grew up outside of Cooperstown, New York - home to the Baseball Hall of Fame and many dairy cows. She attended the University of New Hampshire, earning a degree in agriculture, focusing on plant biology. Her favorite mentor during college was an Extension Agent, so naturally, she dreamt of working in the same field after graduation. In 2019, Jackie moved to Montana after visiting her extended family and falling in love with Montana's prairies, mountains, and people. So far, her favorite parts of the job are meetings with the Park County CWMA and field visits to clientele across Park County. In September, Veronica Baca began a new role as the Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H Youth Development Agent. Moving from her former role as the Financial and Education Program Coordinator to an agent will allow her more opportunities to engage with youth and community members in educational programs. A former middle school teacher, she is excited to work with young people in areas they feel passionate about as they direct their learning through 4-H and other Extension programs. Mary Anne Keyes transitioned to a new role within Extension in July this year. After more than 15 years as the FCS/4-H agent for Park County, she is looking forward to a new challenge: Community and Economic Development Agent. A long-time resident of the county, she frequently serves in an active role in the community, hosting community-wide events, creating connections between area non-profit groups, serving on committees, and always working towards the greater good of Park County. She looks forward to continuing her work serving Park County communities.