Kris Jenkins retires from Extension Office

By SHARON KIESEL

“I’m going to miss all of it, really. And the feeling of getting up every day and have the chance to help people every day,” said Kris Jenkins. “I will miss my co-workers and the community.” Kris has worked for 38 years for the University of Missouri Extension Office, located in the Bates County Courthouse. When she first began in 1973, she replaced Coraellen O’Neil who had just retired.

She said the job developed into much more over the years. Her title is now Human Development Specialist. She works mostly in parenting education and has worked with parent team education and for the past 17 years she has worked with the Bates County Youth Advocacy Council.

Kris is married to Bob and they have three children, Trevor, 31; Sarah, 27; and Melissa, 24. Kris is a member of the Rich Hill United Methodist Church and she belongs to the VeeBees Book Club in Rich Hill. She loves to read and at one time she wanted to be a writer of childrens’ book, something she may pursue now that she will have more time. She also has a perennial garden in which she enjoys working. She used to sew a lot as well but gave that up as time passed. She and Bob also enjoy traveling so that is in the plans as well. “But, I have no definite plans right now,” she added. “I’m just going to see what happens. After years of structure, I’m not sure what I will be doing.”

A farewell reception will be held for Kris Thursday June 30, at the Butler Senior Center, 611 West Mill Street in Butler, from 3 to 6 p.m. and hosted by the Bates County Extension Office. Come by and wish Kris well on her retirement.