Cottonwood Extension District Announces New Team Roles and Summer Interns

The Cottonwood Extension District, serving Ellis and Barton county, is excited to announce recent changes that strengthen its commitment to public health and community outreach.

Karissa Frasier has stepped into a new role as Community Health Worker based in the Hays office. Karissa is no stranger to K-State Research and Extension. She began her career in April 2022 as a SNAP-Ed Assistant in the Wildcat District, where she provided nutrition education to individuals and families. In June 2023, she joined the Cottonwood Extension District as the Family and Community Wellness Agent serving Barton County, a role she held until March 2025. Her background working directly with community members and her passion for wellness make her a great fit for this new position.

Karissa’s position is part of the Rural Ag Health Community Health Worker Project, which aims to improve and sustain the health and safety of rural Kansans and the agricultural workforce. This statewide initiative is establishing resource and service hubs staffed by Community Health Workers who are co-supervised by local K-State Research and Extension units and health care partners. In addition to providing vital connections to health and social services, the project is also creating jobs and strengthening communities through community development.

As a Community Health Worker, Karissa will serve as a bridge between individuals and local resources—helping residents navigate health systems, access care, and adopt healthier lifestyles. We are thrilled to have her knowledge and energy back in the district and know she will make a positive impact across Ellis County.

Michelle Beran will be transitioning into a new role as the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent serving Barton County. She will continue her work as part of the Cottonwood team and will be based out of the Great Bend Extension Office.

Michelle brings a wealth of experience and strong community connections to this new role. She began her career with K-State Research and Extension in 2016 as a 4-H Youth Development Agent joining the Cottonwood Extension District in the same capacity in 2019. Over the past five years, Michelle has had a lasting impact on youth programming across Barton and Ellis Counties, building strong relationships with 4-H members, volunteers, and community partners. Her background in youth development and leadership will provide a strong foundation as she begins focusing on health, wellness, family life, and community-based education. 

With this change, the Cottonwood Extension District will begin the search for a new 4-H Youth Development Agent to serve our youth and families. The hiring process will begin immediately, and we are committed to finding an enthusiastic and qualified individual to carry on the tradition of excellence in our 4-H programming.

Looking ahead, the Cottonwood District is gearing up for a busy summer season and is pleased to welcome two talented summer interns. Lyndsey Buechman will serve Ellis County and Sydney Mattison will serve Barton County. Both will be instrumental in supporting educational outreach and youth engagement at major summer events, including the Barton and Ellis County Fairs.

Please join us in congratulating Karissa and Michelle on their new positions and in welcoming Lyndsey and Sydney to the Cottonwood Extension District team.