Becker retires after nearly 17 years with OSU Extension
Darcy Becker, center, poses with Wayne County Commissioners Dave McMillen, left, and Jonathan Hofstetter after they presented her with a proclamation on her retirement from the Ohio State University Extension as a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program coordinator.
Darcy Becker was working in food service in 2007 when she was asked to fill an unexpected vacancy in the Ohio State University’s Family Nutrition Program temporarily. That temporary assignment began in January 2008 and became a 17-year career.
Becker’s work included educating families about the importance of a balanced diet and advocating for millions of dollars in grants to improve the lives of those eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
Through her outreach efforts, Becker has built relationships with families throughout the county. She was highly sought-after throughout Ohio for her guidance and insight on developing a successful SNAP educational program. However, to Becker, her greatest achievement was seeing her work impact the families she served.
“We teach all ages, starting with preschool children,” Becker said. “When they come back to class and tell me about the recipes they made with their family, it is gratifying. Since the families are eligible for SNAP, there is an emphasis on stretching their food dollar while eating healthy to improve their lives.”
Nutrition serves as a cornerstone for overall health. While Becker’s SNAP educational program highlights the importance of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, she also has inspired some of her students to pursue a culinary career.
“I was doing food demonstrations at a food pantry, and this grandfather and his grandson were regulars. The grandson was in middle school, and he always asked me a lot of questions about each recipe,” she said. “He was actually doing a lot of cooking at home at his grandfather’s house. Now the grandson plans to enroll in culinary arts at the Ashland County-West Holmes County Schools Career Center.”
Wayne County Commissioner Dave McMillen, reading from a proclamation, said, “Darcy’s ability to connect with diverse age groups, from preschoolers to seniors, has been the hallmark of her approach. She brings joy to her lessons.”
Becker doesn’t have any particular retirement plans.
“This is physically demanding work; I am ready for a sabbath day,” she said. “I am just going to see what comes my way.”
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.