Today marks a milestone in the lives of two co-workers. Dennis and Connie Crawford are entering into a well-earned and well-deserved retirement.

Dennis, an Ag Economist, began his career as Ag Business Management Coordinator in July, 1989. He served farmers, ranchers, and lenders in the Canadian and Grady County district for 36 ½ years. In the past five years he has supported 60 clients through various agriculture related loans and farm business financial set-ups with his expertise. In addition to being one of our school’s historians, he is known for his no-nonsense logic and clever, pragmatic, problem-solving skills. The average size farms in his service area have been 366 acres each, and average price per acre in the district has been $1786 generating an economic impact of $39 million in Oklahoma’s Agriculture Economic Ecosystem. In reference to Dennis’s excellent service, USDA, Oklahoma Farm Loan Chief, F. Phillip Estes stated, “…above all else, he has given sound advice to our customers on their agriculture business.”

Connie has served as our Events Coordinator, accommodating trainings, meetings, forums, seminars, and job fairs. She has served the district for 27 years and is known for her organization skills and attention to detail. She has been integral in making good things happen for her people while supporting and promoting traditions and building solid, loyal relationships with everyone she encounters.

Both have taken a proactive approach and have been willing to go the extra mile to make a difference in the lives they touch. The contributions they have made are key to the foundation of our district’s success. They are both the kind of people who know how to bring out the best in others and they have gained the honorable right enjoy all those things they have been craving to do.

Welcome to your FREEDOM, and happy, happy retirement. You have loved us so well!