Eve Brantley is the new associate director for the Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Auburn University. In this position, Brantley will provide leadership to county Extension offices statewide as they work to better their communities through science-based programing and events.

“I am inspired by the dedication, passion and commitment that our Extension professionals bring to work every day to improve the world around them,” Brantley said. “I am excited to learn from them about how I can be helpful and what we need to ensure that Alabama Extension is a community leader, partner and trusted source for local needs across our program areas.”

Making a Positive Difference

Brantley began her role as associate director Aug. 12. She previously served as the Alabama Extension water resources specialist and director of the Auburn University Water Resources Center. Through these roles, Brantley worked with residents to positively impact Alabama’s abundant streams, rivers and lakes.

Alabama Extension Director Mike Phillips said Brantley has worked in many facets throughout her career, from cropland irrigation planning projects to water quality testing, and will be a huge asset to Extension’s leadership.

“Dr. Brantley is the consummate professional that is passionate about Extension work and making a positive difference in society,” Phillips said. “We are very fortunate to have her in this role to enhance our mission of extending knowledge and improving lives throughout Alabama.”

A Noble and Important Job

As associate director, Brantley will work closely with Jennifer Wells Marshall, the associate director for Alabama Extension at Alabama A&M University. Together, they will oversee the daily operations of Extension programming within the 67 county offices. Brantley will also work with Extension’s seven assistant directors for field operations (ADFOs) and their respective regions.

“Collectively, we take on different roles to help people and communities,” Brantley said. “It is a noble and important job that requires the values of service, teamwork and professionalism. It is a special skill set. We have to listen, problem solve, make connections, understand our audience and not just share science-based information, but recognize solutions.”

Brantley will work directly with program team leaders in several areas to create these solutions. These areas include 4-H youth development, human sciences and agriculture, forestry and natural resources. She will also work with the ADFOs and county Extension coordinators to expand efforts in community resource development.

“Dr. Brantley is a tremendous leader,” Phillips said. “She is an outstanding communicator who is widely known both internally and to many external affiliates at the local, state and federal levels.”

A Vision for Extension

Stepping into this new role, Brantley has a clear vision for the future. She sees Extension’s past accomplishments as a firm foundation to build on.

“We’re going to chart Alabama Extension’s future together,” Brantley said. “This is a golden time for Extension. We have recruited new talent, are fortunate to have institutional knowledge and are building an energy that I want to support and grow.”

By building on the past and showcasing current and future capabilities, Brantley wants Extension to be an integral part of success in communities and the state. She sees her role as an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on Extension and the people it impacts.

“Positive, inspirational leadership that reminds people of why we do what we do: that’s what I want to be remembered for,” Brantley said.

A Touch of Home

Brantley received her undergraduate degree in biology from Berry College. She later earned a master’s degree from Clemson University in forest resources. She received her doctorate degree from Auburn’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences.

Brantley has lived in Auburn, Alabama, since 2002. She and her husband, Will — the Alabama Forestry Commission’s assistant state forester — have two children, Chloe and Hank. Chloe is a senior at Auburn University, and Hank is a junior at Auburn High School. Brantley spends her free time not too differently from her professional time: hiking, playing in creeks and enjoying being outside.

“I enjoy sharing the specialness of Alabama with friends, family and colleagues,” Brantley said. “Once they visit, they understand what an amazing treasure we have.”