North Carolina State University has named Beth Burchell as Halifax County’s new cooperative extension director. 

Burchell assumed her role on January 4, replacing Arthur Whitehead who retired last June after serving Halifax County for 26 years. 

Prior to assuming the extension director role, Burchell served as the area extension agent for both Halifax and Northampton counties, working with livestock producers and 4-H youth since 2016. 

A native of Halifax County, she completed her bachelor’s degree in animal science and master’s degree in agriculture and extension education from North Carolina State University. 

She resides in Scotland Neck with her husband on their family farm. 

Art Bradley, Northeast District Extension director, said, “I look forward to her leadership in building a cohesive extension center through times of change that finds innovative ways to meet the needs of Halifax County citizens.” 

County Manager Tony N. Brown said, “I look forward to working with Mrs. Burchell and partnering with her office to enhance and expand the valuable services provided for our citizens.” 

Burchell will be responsible for overseeing the staff and programs for the entire Extension program in Halifax County as well as serving as the liaison between county government and NCSU. 

She will also continue to offer agriculture programs and consultations she has become known for in the past four years. 

Cooperative Extension operates in each county as a partner to bring the research and resources of land grant universities — North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University — in the areas of agriculture, 4-H and youth development, family health and nutrition, and community and rural development for the benefit of people in the county.