Carter honored with 2024 DACF Commissioner’s Distinguished Service Award

Hannah Carter, dean of University of Maine Cooperative Extension and associate provost for online and continuing education at UMaine, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) Commissioner’s Distinguished Service Award.

The award is the highest agriculture sector recognition in the state, annually celebrating individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication and outstanding contributions to preserving Maine’s farm culture, heritage and future. It highlights Carter’s leadership in education, applied research and scholarship, as well as her contributions to sustaining and growing Maine’s food-based economy and empowering the state’s youth through 4-H.

“I’m incredibly honored by this recognition from Commissioner (Amanda) Beal and I look forward to continuing our strong collaborations between DACF and UMaine Cooperative Extension as we work to not only meet the challenges facing the Maine agricultural industry but also ensuring it remains a vital piece of Maine’s future,” Carter said. 

As dean of UMaine Extension, Carter provides strategic guidance, oversees fiscal responsibilities, manages staffing and personnel matters, and ensures compliance with university-wide policies. She also plays a pivotal role in fostering diversity and inclusion, training staff and maintaining productive relationships with the Maine government, industry and public stakeholders.

Read the full story about Carter’s award and accomplishments on the DACF website.