What does this research mean for the field?

A proactive legislative engagement strategy that emphasizes consistent messaging, local program impact, and opportunities for legislator input is highly successful for university extension programs. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.METHODOLOGICAL. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.NEUTRAL.

What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to strengthen relationships with legislators through consistent messaging and engagement.

May 28, 2026

Proactive Accountability: Building Relationships with Legislators

Key Points

The aim is to strengthen relationships with legislators through consistent messaging and engagement.
Engagement with legislators to provide consistent messaging about OSU Extension programs.
Opportunities for legislators to give input on organizational and program directions.
Focus on demonstrating positive local impacts of programs.
Success in building strong relationships with legislators in the 1990s.
Improved perception of OSU Extension as effective stewards and community influencers.

Abstract

Ohio State University Extension uses a proactive approach when working with legislators and other decision makers. This approach is built on a philosophy that Extension's best asset is strong programs that make a real positive difference in the lives of people at the local level. The legislative contact is designed to present a consistent message and provide opportunities for legislators to provide input into program and organizational direction. The message is that OSU Extension and OARDC are good stewards, the programs have positive impacts on people, certain issues have greater importance in different parts of the state, and legislators are appreciated. This approach has been very successful in the 1990s.

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