Laura Elmore named new Iredell County Extension Director

DATE:  December 30, 2025

CONTACT:
Darsee Heath, Strategy & Communications Manager
704-838-1609, [email protected]

Laura Elmore named new Iredell County Extension Director

North Carolina Cooperative Extension has announced the appointment of Laura Elmore as the new Iredell County Extension Director, effective January 2026. Elmore brings nearly ten years of dedicated service to the county’s agricultural community, most recently serving as the Livestock and Field Crops County Agent.

Elmore began her Extension career in Iredell County in 2016, where she quickly became a trusted resource for local producers. In her role as Livestock and Field Crops Agent, she delivered research-based education in beef cattle management, forage systems, and crop production. She has led and supported numerous programs and initiatives focused on improving on-farm efficiency, profitability, and long-term sustainability.

Throughout her tenure, Elmore has been particularly committed to strengthening livestock operations across the county. Her work has included applied research demonstrations, producer education programs, and grant-supported projects that have provided meaningful, practical benefits to agricultural businesses.

Elmore holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Animal Science from North Carolina State University. Her academic background, paired with her extensive Extension experience, provides a strong foundation for guiding county-based programming and supporting the diverse needs of Iredell County residents.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Elmore remains deeply rooted in agriculture through her involvement on her family’s farm. There, she helps manage commercial broiler poultry, beef cattle, and sheep, as well as a seasonal greenhouse operation. This hands-on experience keeps her closely connected to the daily realities of agricultural production and enhances her ability to serve local producers with insight and empathy.

Elmore expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead the Iredell County Center, noting her commitment to Extension’s mission of delivering practical, research-based education that strengthens communities. She looks forward to expanding partnerships, supporting staff, and continuing to enhance Extension’s impact across the county.

In addition to all of Laura's acomplishments, she is currently participating as a co-hort in this year's Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Statesville Program from August 2025 through May 2026.  The program challenges each participant not only to be an effective and influential leader within their own organization but to lead within our greater community through personal commitment and involvement. For more information about the Leadership Program please visit https://www.statesvillechamber.org/leadership-statesville/ or call the chamber at 704-873-2892.

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About Iredell County Government
Iredell County Government is committed to serving residents and businesses by providing high-quality public services, fostering economic development, and enhancing the overall quality of life. Incorporated in 1788, Iredell County is located in the central section of North Carolina and encompasses the city of Statesville and towns of Harmony, Love Valley, Mooresville and Troutman.

About N.C. Cooperative Extension, Iredell County
The N.C. Cooperative Extension, Iredell County Center, is part of North Carolina Cooperative Extension, a partnership between NC State University and NC A&T State University. The center provides educational programs and resources in agriculture, family and consumer sciences, 4‑H youth development, horticulture, and community engagement. Its mission is to deliver research‑based knowledge and technology that enrich the lives, land, and economy of Iredell County residents.