Grandmother’s Guidance Steers UA Graduate from Arkadelphia to Fulfilling Career
JoAnn Vann’s journey to a fulfilling career was set in motion at a tender age of four. Sitting at her grandmother’s feet, she began learning the intricacies of sewing clothes for her dolls. This early exposure laid the foundation for her future as a family and consumer sciences cooperative extension agent.
Years later, Vann went on to earn a master’s degree in agricultural and extension education from the University of Arkansas through online courses. She credits her grandmother’s influence for instilling the value of hard work and discipline that made it possible to balance her job and academic pursuits.
As an extension agent, Vann has dedicated her career to teaching essential life skills such as mending, hemming, and washing clothes. She emphasizes the importance of passing these skills to the next generation, citing how sewing a button or doing laundry can extend the life of clothing.
The Cooperative Extension Service family and consumer sciences division focuses on four key areas: food and nutrition, youth development, family enrichment, and community resource management. Vann’s role in this division allows her to share her expertise and make a tangible impact on the community.
A testament to her grandmother’s enduring influence, Vann’s career is a testament to the power of early guidance and mentorship.
Today, as Vann celebrates her academic achievements, she leaves behind a message of perseverance. For anyone contemplating online education, Vann’s story serves as a beacon of hope, showing that it is possible to pursue higher education while working full-time.
Her journey not only underscores the importance of family support but also highlights the adaptability of online degree programs. In Vann’s words, “If you can use a smart phone, you can figure out these online classes.”
As the Razorbug Diploma Tour traveled across Arkansas, Vann’s story stood out as a striking example of the transformative power of a grandmother’s love and career guidance.
