As I often say, numbers alone do not exist in a vacuum.  They are part of a much larger landscape of understanding than simply knowing how much of something exists.  In addition to training on how to find and use publically available secondary data, I conduct and provide analyses that examine specific issues for specific audiences.  

This year, for example, I was asked to speak before the Nutrition Education Program advisory group about trends in employment and unemployment, characteristics of those in poverty in Kentucky, and the extent of food insecurity in the state.  Because of the success of the presentation, I was then asked to speak to the Family and Consumer Sciences Advisory Council.  This analysis and presentation examined social and demographic trends useful for understanding the reach of FCS Extension in Kentucky and included a specific examination of drug abuse, obesity, and disability across the state.

With increasing income inequality nationally and globally, I also conducted analyses and presentations on inequality, understanding what it is, and understanding some of the implications for Extension.  The initial presentation was conducted for Extension administration and led to a request from the District 7 Director to provide a similar presentation.  For the approximately 85 people attending the District 7 meeting, in addition to national and state trends, I also provided a custom analysis and data specifically tailored for counties in the District.