Cathy Sutphin honored with emerita status
Cathy Sutphin, faculty member and administrator with Virginia Cooperative Extension, has been conferred the title of associate director emerita of Virginia Cooperative Extension and associate professor emerita by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.
The emerita title may be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy of the resolution and a certificate of appreciation.
A member of the Virginia Tech community for more than 38 years, Sutphin made significant contributions to Virginia Cooperative Extension through her service as 4-H extension agent and senior extension agent in Wythe and Pulaski counties. Sutphin served the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences as assistant professor, Extension specialist for program and volunteer development, associate professor with continued appointment, and director of human resources. In addition, Sutphin served as interim associate director for Extension administration, interim associate director for agriculture and natural resources, and interim director of Virginia Cooperative Extension. Sutphin also held leadership roles as associate director and state leader for 4-H. In her most recent position, she served as associate director of youth, families, and health.
Among Sutphin’s many accolades are an Achievement in Service Award, a Distinguished Service Award, a 25 Years of Service Award from the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals, and an honorary American Future Farmers of America degree.
Sutphin served the university on numerous commissions and committees, leading significant achievements including the establishment of the Virginia Tech Office of Youth Protection, chairing the university’s Faculty Review Committee, and guiding the transition of several career and technical student organizations into the administration of Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Written by Anja Hemesath, a student writer for Virginia Tech Marketing and Communications