N.C. Cooperative Extension–Burke County Center is thrilled to announce the appointment of Damon Pollard as its new County Extension Director. A highly respected and familiar face to local producers, Damon steps into this leadership role backed by 22 years of dedicated service as the county's Agricultural Extension Agent. He brings a wealth of knowledge, hands-on experience, and community trust to his new position. Damon’s connection to the land and the citizens of Burke County is lifelong. He grew up locally on a diversified livestock and hay operation raising hogs and beef cattle , and he remains an active beef cattle and hay producer today. Damon earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Extension Education, with a Minor in Animal Science, from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
Damon Pollard Named County Extension Director for Burke Center
Cultivating Leadership
To further prepare for this leadership role, Damon graduated from the Academy to Advance Leadership within Extension (AALE) program. Developed to cultivate leaders within NC State University’s Extension, the academy focused on leading self, leading others, managing teams, and driving organizational change.
Dr. Rhonda Sutton, Assistant Dean for Professional Development at the NC State University Graduate School, worked closely with Damon during the academy and highly praised his capabilities:
Although relatively quiet, Damon was clearly a critical thinker, a strong supporter of others, and a responsible contributor to the goals of the program... I found Damon to be accountable, responsive, genuine, knowledgeable and trustworthy—all characteristics that a strong County Extension Director needs to fulfill the responsibilities and expectations associated with the position.
Damon has already demonstrated these administrative capabilities firsthand, previously directing operations and serving as acting director during past county director absences. Throughout his 22 years in the Burke County Extension serving livestock, field crops, and forestry program areas, he has successfully spearheaded collaborations with community stakeholders and played a role in disaster recovery efforts—helping local farmers rebuild their operations post-natural disasters and disease outbreaks.
A Trusted Voice
Beyond his professional resume, Damon is deeply woven into the community. He is involved with his church, Burke County Cattlemen's Association, and Burke County Farm Bureau. Johnnie Carswell, Past President of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and Former Chairman of the Burke County Board of Commissioners, spoke to Damon's sterling reputation:
From a community perspective, Damon is the kind of leader every county hopes to have—steady, service-minded, and deeply committed to the well-being of the people he serves. I have come to know him as someone who leads with integrity, listens with care, and consistently puts the needs of others first.
Family
At home, Damon has been happily married to his wife, Julie, for 32 years. Together, they have raised three sons: Pate, Burke, and Avery. He can happily say his three sons all grew up to become proud NC State University alumni.
As he transitions into his new director role, Damon is deeply committed to serving the citizens of Burke County and is excited to guide the Cooperative Extension Center into its next chapter. Please join us in welcoming and congratulating Damon Pollard as our new Burke County Extension Director!
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