Shirley White has been at the heart of the Portsmouth Extension Office for more than 20 years. Well known for her ever-present smile and willingness to help, White’s role as a unit administrative assistant (UAA) means she is the first face or voice many new clients encounter. Her passion for connecting people with useful, research-based resources has made a lasting impact, and she will be deeply missed when she retires in January 2026.

How did you get started in Extension?

“I was referred by someone who knew an Extension office was opening in Portsmouth. At the time, I was a legal secretary looking for a new job because both attorneys I worked for were retiring. I was looking for a different challenge.” 

What does “Extension” mean to you — personally and professionally?

“I was thrilled to get this job! My title was unit support tech, and for some reason I liked that title. It had a little more oomph than just “secretary.” I made it my mission to spread the word about all the wonderful things we offer. We’re the “arms and legs” of Virginia Tech and Virginia State University — an extension of their research. People come to us for answers they can’t find elsewhere, and we provide research-based solutions.” 

Two people stand at a table and work on cutting produce.
White works with a program participant at a Portsmouth Adult Recovery Court program. Photo by Christie Culliton for Virginia Cooperative Extension.

What do you enjoy most about your role in Extension?

“Meeting new people and hearing their stories. Whether they need help with plants, lawns, pests, or nutrition, I enjoy pointing them to the right resources. I also love the variety. There’s always something new to learn.”

Tell us about a moment or project that made you proud to work in Extension.

“Several years ago, a lady called looking for Extension curriculum we didn’t have in our office. I searched our website, found a contact at Virginia Tech, and arranged to have the materials shipped to our office. She was so happy she wrote a letter to my supervisor praising my effort. That meant a lot.”

How does your work make a difference in your community?

“Our whole office makes a difference by offering valuable programs and free information. As the “gatekeeper,” I’m often the first point of contact. I greet everyone with a smile and help however I can, even if it means finding the right contact outside our services.”

What’s one misconception people have about Extension?

“Many think Extension is only for rural folks with farm animals. In reality, we offer a wide range of programs and continue expanding to serve urban communities.”

What’s a typical day like for you?

“Answering phones, greeting clients, assisting staff, meeting Virginia Tech deadlines, and keeping financial records current. Every day brings something new.”

What advice would you give someone starting their career in Extension?

“I would like to pass on the same advice I was given when I started: “Things will change.” Don’t get stuck in one way of doing things — change is inevitable! For new unit administrative assistants, I’ll add: Take plenty of notes! 😊”

What are you currently excited about?

“Retirement! I’ve never known what it feels like not to be somewhere at the same time every day, and I’m ready to find out.”

Finish this sentence: “Extension is important because...”

“Extension is important because it connects people to great resources, solves problems, and changes lives. It has done all those things for me!”

- Written by Christie Culliton, field marketing & communications coordinator