From Farm Roots to Leadership

Growing up on land that was once part of his grandmother’s farm in Columbus County, North Carolina, agriculture was always a part of Howard Wallace’s life. However, he never considered it as a career path at first. “Farming and agriculture were always around me growing up, but I never initially considered them as a career option,” he admits. His introduction to agriculture wasn’t driven by passion but by a high school elective. Encouraged by his sister, he took the class for a chance to attend the state fair as an FFA member. That small decision set him on a path that would shape his future.

Once he enrolled in an agriculture class taught by Josh Bledsoe at West Columbus High School, everything changed. Bledsoe, a highly respected teacher, created a learning environment that went beyond traditional farming. “Mr. Bledsoe’s classes were so much more than just ‘cows, plows, and sows,'” he recalls. “He created an environment where students could be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Through FFA, he gained opportunities to travel, build confidence, and develop leadership skills. Inspired by Bledsoe’s mentorship, he chose to major in agricultural and extension education (AEE) at NC State, where he was honored as an NC Teaching Fellow.

A lifelong NC State fan, Wallace always knew he wanted to study in Raleigh. The close-knit AEE department solidified his decision. “We were on a first-name basis with our professors. It felt like family,” he says. This sense of community carried through to his graduate studies. He earned a Master of extension education in 2013 and a Doctorate in AEE in 2023. During this time, he formed strong connections with faculty, including Jim Flowers, who played a key role in his academic journey. “Flowers sent me a letter inviting me to campus even before my freshman orientation so I could enroll in classes early. That left a lasting impression on me,” he shares.

Since October 2022, he has served as the County Extension Director (CED) for NC Cooperative Extension – Columbus County Center. He leads a team of 10 Extension agents, program assistants, and support staff. His work includes horticulture programming, digital literacy initiatives, and efforts to expand broadband access to better serve the community.

“I’ve always been interested in computer technology, and I try to incorporate it into my work as much as possible,” he explains. “I help local clients develop basic digital skills and advocate for digital literacy in Columbus County.”

With nearly 20 years in Extension work, he remains committed to making a difference. “The importance of our work lies in its ability to change lives, expand knowledge, and improve practices within the communities we serve,” he says. His dedication has helped him secure nearly $250,000 in grants for local food programs, directly benefiting those in his community. His doctoral research also explored how agricultural Extension agents in North Carolina use social media to connect with their audiences. He sees social media as an underutilized tool for promoting Extension work statewide.

While he enjoys his current role, he hopes to expand his research and possibly take on new leadership opportunities within NC Cooperative Extension. “I love what I do and the community I serve. The flexibility and freedom that Extension provides are hard to match,” he reflects.

As he looks to the future, he remains grateful for the mentors who guided him. From his high school agriculture teacher, Bledsoe, to his doctoral chair, Jay Jayaratne, their influence continues to shape his work today. “My work allows me to be a voice for the community I grew up in. Every day, I feel like I’m giving back in a meaningful way,” he concludes.

His journey from a small farm in Columbus County to earning a doctorate from NC State is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and a commitment to serving others.