During its September 1, 2026, meeting, the Autauga County Commission presented a resolution honoring Kacey Powell and Darrue Sharpe, along with the dedicated staff and volunteers of the Autauga County Extension Service and 4-H Program, for excellence in Extension leadership and youth development.

Darrue Sharpe, Autauga County Extension Director, received the “Eye of the Tiger Award,” which honors a County Extension Director who demonstrates exceptional initiative, innovation, creativity and leadership in developing or delivering impactful programs that address community needs.

Kacey Powell, Autauga County 4-H Extension Agent, was recognized by the Alabama Association of Extension 4-H Agents during its 2026 conference. She earned first-place honors for Excellence in Healthy Living Programming and Excellence in Agricultural Literacy Programming for Autauga County’s 4-H Agriculture Day Camp.

Powell was also a member of a first-place Communicator Award team and contributed to an award-winning social media campaign highlighting the lasting impact of 4-H on local alumni and community leaders—including the success of one of Autauga County’s own 4-H members.

“Darrue and Kacey represent the very best of public service,” said Autauga County Commission Chairman Jay Thompson. “Their statewide recognition reflects not only their individual leadership and dedication, but also the strength of the entire Autauga County Extension team. The work they do every day—especially their investment in our young people—makes a lasting difference throughout Autauga County. We are incredibly proud of them and grateful for the positive impact they continue to make in our community.”

The Autauga County Commission congratulates Darrue, Kacey and the entire Autauga County Extension team and its volunteers for placing Autauga County in the statewide spotlight. We look forward to seeing the fruits of their hard work continue to grow in the young people and communities they serve.

We look forward to seeing the fruits of their hard work continue to grow in the young people of our community.

ELMORE AUTAUGA NEWS- AMANDA PEVEY