New Cabarrus Extension director named

Robert “Robbie” Furr, director of North Carolina Cooperative Extension programs in Mecklenburg County since 2009, has been named to direct the Extension program in Cabarrus County.

Furr’s appointment as Cabarrus Extension director was announced by Sheri Schwab, associate director and director of county operations for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at North Carolina State University, and Mike Downs, Cabarrus County Manager.

Furr joined Cooperative Extension as a 4-H agent in 1995, working with 4-H youth in Stanly, Rowan and Mecklenburg counties. He also served as a school age child care systems manager from 1991 until 1995.

The new Cabarrus director holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a master’s degree in liberal studies with specialization in public administration and non-formal youth development from North Carolina State University.

Furr served as board chair for the Mecklenburg County Partnership for Children in 2011 and 2012. He was a regional winner of the 2009 4-H Innovator Award given by the National Association of 4-H Agents. He also won two other awards given by the association, the 2006 4-H Club Program Support award and 2004 Distinguished Service Award.

“Robbie is an outstanding leader who has demonstrated effective leadership skills,” said Clinton McRae, director of Cooperative Extension’s South Central District, which includes Cabarrus County. “Robbie is fortunate to be able to join an experienced staff that has created great educational programs. Additionally, Robbie is joining a great Cabarrus County administrative team.”

— Dave Caldwell