The University of Wyoming Extension recently appointed Tiera Bevilacqua the new state volunteer development specialist. Bevilacqua transitioned to this role after joining Sublette County Extension in 2023 as a 4-H youth development educator.

In Bevilacqua’s time as a 4-H educator, she helped organize local and state events, including the Sublette County Fair and state Showcase Showdown.  She built relationships with her local community, 4-H members, and 4-H volunteers.

Bevilacqua’s expertise in building relationships with volunteers will serve her well in her new position as the state volunteer development specialist.

The volunteer development specialist provides support for 4-H and Master Gardener volunteers. Bevilacqua will approve new 4-H and Master Gardener volunteers and help troubleshoot any issues that volunteers encounter. She will host educational events and meetings for volunteers in locations across the state. Finally, she will be responsible for updating and creating new resources to educate and assist Wyoming volunteers.

“After working with a diverse group of adult volunteers, I have learned to meet them where they are in their volunteer experience and support them in their 4-H volunteer careers,” says Bevilacqua. “I have also learned [that] when the volunteers in the program feel supported, they put more effort into their planning and ideas, which ultimately cultivates a stronger program.”

Bevilacqua feels fortunate to be able to help with the work that Wyoming 4-H volunteers and educators accomplish. “I value the work that our volunteers give, and I want to continue to make Wyoming 4-H a place people want to volunteer with,” she adds.

Bevilacqua transitioned to her new role with UW Extension Monday, March 3. For more information about volunteering with UW Extension, contact Bevilacqua at tarndorf@uwyo.edu or (307) 766-5124.