Extension Celebrates More Than a Century of Service
From the Archives
Established by the Smith-Lever Act in 1914, NC State Extension is celebrating 110 years of extending knowledge and enriching lives across North Carolina.
Different Decades, Same Service
Throughout the ensuing 11 decades, Extension has worked alongside 22 North Carolina governors. It’s grown along with the state’s population, which has exploded from around 2.4 million people (in mostly rural areas) in 1914 to more than 10 million people (in mostly urban areas) in 2024.
Branching out from its agricultural roots, but remaining true to its historical mission, Extension has evolved to address an array of modern issues.
From protecting natural resources and promoting public health to developing future leaders and helping farmers feed, clothe and fuel a rapidly growing state, Extension tackles some of North Carolina’s grandest challenges.
Extension’s Campus is the 100 Counties of North Carolina
Today, more than 1,000 Extension experts deliver research-based programs across all 100 counties plus the Qualla Boundary, connecting millions of North Carolinians with timely tools and information from NC State.
Equipped with more than a century of experience, a vast network of partnerships and a timeless mission to create prosperity, Extension generates an average of $2.1 billion in annual economic impact for North Carolina.
Based in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and a proud part of the Pack, NC State Extension transforms science into everyday solutions that improve lives and grow our state — then, now and forever.
Historical Snapshot
- 1914
The Smith-Lever Act formally establishes a national Cooperative Extension System tied to each land-grant university. Extension in North Carolina — first known as the N.C. Agricultural Extension Service — is born on May 8.
- 1936
For the first time, Extension farm agents are serving all 100 counties.
- 1960s
Extension’s 4-H program welcomes urban youth for the first time, reflecting both the state’s growing urban population and Extension’s expanding focus beyond the farm.
- 1993
NC State launches the first university Extension website in the nation. Today, more than 11 million people visit our sites each year.
- 2024
NC State Extension begins implementing an ambitious new strategic plan for 2030.
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