Faculty Spotlight: Ashley Benes

Ashley Benes
Ashley Benes

About Ashley Benes:

Ashley Benes is a 4-H Youth Development Educator with Nebraska Extension. She works out of the Cass County Office. Ashley’s main programming focus is STEM and she spends a lot of time working with Animal Science programming across the state. Ashley serves as co-leader of the STEM Careers statewide Issue Team in Extesnion. Ashley is a mentor and coach for new 4-H educators entering the UNL system. She’s also heavily involved in 4-H livestock events and serves as Assistant Beef Superintendent at State Fair and Lamb Challenge superintendent at Aksarben. She also spends time volunteering for other youth development organizations in her spare time.  Ashley feels it is very important to be a part of professional organizations and is currently serving as the Nebraska 4-H section President. 

What is your position at the University of Nebraska?  

Extension Educator in 4-H Youth Development.

What drew you to the University of Nebraska?

UNL has been a wonderful place to work. I received my undergraduate degree from University of Nebraska and really enjoyed my time here. I also worked in a few different departments as a student worker at that time. Even then, I was always treated fairly and with respect and constantly learned on the job. I’m still learning every day that I work here. 

What aspect of working in an educational setting do you enjoy the most?

The learning atmosphere and the relationships. There are always new opportunities and something new to dive into and learn. I have made so many wonderful friends in both attending UNL and working for the University. We all share a passion for education and that really brings us together. There is a strong sense of community especially among the Extension staff. 

What do you consider your greatest achievement? 

I think I’m still striving for my greatest achievement. That is what I enjoy the most about this career is constantly being pushed to do more and do it better. I hope to never get stagnant in my work. 

What is something that most people don’t know about you? 

I’m a huge hockey fan! I rarely miss a Blackhawks game thanks to NHL TV 

What is your life like outside of work?

Very quiet. Work can be so busy that I find it nice to just be when I’m on my own time. I love to read, take my two corgis to the park, golf and enjoy time with family and friends. 

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