On July 31 faculty and staff of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service from across the state gathered in Bryan-College Station for the agency’s Superior Service Awards, the highest recognition given to AgriLife Extension employees in honor of their exemplary service and programming. Among the honorees were Calhoun County agents RJ Shelly and Emilee DeForest.

Shelly, after just four and a half years of dedicated service, was recognized with the Emerging Issues Individual award for his exceptional networking abilities, establishing strong relationships throughout the Gulf Coast, and greatly enhancing the prosperity of numerous coastal communities. Shelly’s leadership in oyster mariculture solidified his reputation as a key advocate for advancing the industry within Texas, spearheading various impactful programming initiatives.

Additionally, Shelly was recognized by Capital Farm Credit as the 2024 County Agent of the Year – Risk Management & Marketing for work done on the economic impact of the Ayres, Mesquite, and Carlos Bay oyster harvesting closures.

Receiving the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Rising Star Award for exceptional work within the first three years of employment was Emilee DeForest, Calhoun County’s 4-H and Youth Development Agent. DeForest was in the first cohort of Rising Start Award winners, representing Texas A&M AgriLife Extension District 11. Emilee has been involved in numerous youth and adult programs including Livestock Judging, Livestock Quiz Bowl, Sportfishing, Consumer Decision Making, Sewing, Shooting Sports, and Food & Nutrition project areas.

Calhoun County is fortunate to have among its AgriLife Extension staff, these two award winning agents.