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MU Extension Stakeholder Relations:
Building Relationships for the Future

Carrying out the University of Missouri Extension vision of improving people’s lives through relevant lifelong learning depends in large measure on extension’s partnerships across the state.  Our partners support the extension land-grant mission with their dollars, volunteer hours, political support and good will. 

ALL extension faculty and staff have a role to play in building relationships with legislators, county commissioners, city officeholders and other decision makers.  Faculty and staff are responsible for sharing the story of extension’s impact and also for equipping extension volunteers to tell the story.

Communication about University of Missouri Extension’s value must take place throughout the year – not just during times of crisis.  Ongoing communication helps build critical relationships with funders and other partners and also assists in our accountability for the resources invested in extension programs. 

To share ideas or ask for assistance with communication with key stakeholders, please contact us.   ECR@missouri.edu

Stakeholder Relations Principles and Roles
Learn the definition of “stakeholder,” guiding principles and role definitions for important relationship-building efforts. How does lobbying differ from education and information sharing?  See definitions of both here.

How savvy are you in stakeholder communication?  Check your Stakeholder Relations IQ. 

What are the protocols for communicating with legislators?  Here are handy Do’s and Don’ts.

It pays to be prepared when you go visit with a legislator or other stakeholder. Ask yourself a few questions Before You Call. 

Who are my state legislators? Your zip code is the key. 

Year-round communication techniques
Check this list of tried and true communication practices.

Share ideas with your colleagues about how to communicate effectively:  http://extteam.missouri.edu/sites/stakeholder
(For employees. Use um-users\userID)
Council members may send ideas to ECR@missouri.edu

All politics are local.  Use your county annual report to inform officeholders about  University of Missouri Extension benefits for county residents.

  • County extension annual reports, most are PDF files. 

    • University of Missouri’s impact on counties is far-reaching.  Print off copies of the UM System Government Relations impact sheets, and provide this valuable information to legislators and other decision makers.

    JCEP – the Joint Council of Extension Professionals – offers a compendium of resources on communication with decision makers.  Make these resources work for you.

    County commissions assist in local funding for University of Missouri Extension programs through the county extension council.  A focus group with Missouri Association of Counties members offered feedback on how commissioners view extension and their communication concerns.  See tips on communicating with your local commission.

    City officeholders and their constituents need University of Missouri Extension resources and can be funding partners.  A focus group discussion summary with Missouri Municipal League members offers insight into their perspectives.

    Related resources:

    Professional associations

     

    Contact
    Sandy Stegall, StegallS@umsystem.edu
    Communications Coordinator