Mar 31

Mar 31 Dr. Tammy Kelly: A trailblazer in community service

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it is an excellent opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of women who have made a significant impact in their communities. Dr. Tammy Kelly, the County Extension Director for the NC Cooperative Extension, Lenoir County Center, is one such woman. For nearly two decades, Tammy has been working tirelessly to make a positive impact in Lenoir County.

Her influence in the community started in 2003 when she transferred to Lenoir County to fill the role of County Extension Director. Her experience as a 4-H agent in Franklin County for 15 years prepared her well for the role. She quickly began identifying the needs of the county and sought ways the agency could meet them.

“As County Extension Director for Cooperative Extension, part of my role was Community Resource Development, as well as building community relationships, which is also my passion,” said Kelly.

When Kelly arrived in Lenoir County, the town and county were emerging from the aftermath of a hurricane. The Farmers Market in downtown Kinston was a promising opportunity to promote local foods. She seized the opportunity to revitalize the Farmers Market, and the mission has been a great success.

One of the significant challenges Kelly faced early on was learning the area and the people of Lenoir County. She also had to contend with the challenges of finding funding to support programming efforts.

“One of the biggest jobs for me has been writing and executing grants, a little at a time,” said Kelly.

She overcame these challenges by collaborating with others in the community, including county government, advisory members, the Lenoir County Chamber, Visit Kinston TDA, Community Council for the Arts, United Way of Lenoir County, BBQ Fest on the Neuse, local businesses, and many others. Kelly believes that collaborations have been key to her success.

Kelly acknowledges that health is one of this area’s most pressing issues. Her organization is well-positioned to address some of these issues through its 4-H youth, volunteers, and senior citizens. She believes that education is the key to changing people's attitudes and behaviors. She sees the cooperative extension's mission as a vital tool for teaching the community about growing and utilizing food to maximize good health, food budgeting, food safety, food preparation, and senior insurance plans.

Balancing involvement with personal and professional responsibilities is not easy, but Kelly loves what she does. Her job is a personal mission, and she makes time for the things she loves, such as trips to the beach.

“I think what keeps me the most motivated is seeing the change you can make in the lives of others,” said Kelly. “But also I am motivated by the energy of my staff members.”

Her future plans and goals include finishing the Commercial Kitchen in the Rick Holder Farmers Market Annex and making it operational. This kitchen will give all of Lenoir County's citizens the opportunity to produce safe food products for sale, enhancing the economy, and personal incomes. The kitchen can also be used by caterers and local restaurants and during natural disasters to feed groups of first responders and other volunteers.

Kelly loves working on the committee for the BBQ Fest on the Neuse, which showcases, and brings large numbers of visitors, to downtown Kinston. As she celebrates 35 years with NC Cooperative Extension, Kelly’s retirement date is still up in the air. For now, she will continue to serve the area she loves and inspire others to get involved and make a difference.

Tammy Kelly is an extraordinary woman who has made a significant impact in Lenoir County. Her dedication and hard work have helped the community grow and prosper. Her example serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to make a positive impact in their communities.

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