Debra Barrett

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Senior Extension Educator
Department of Animal Science

Debra Barrett is a senior educator at Michigan State University Extension. She has worked in this capacity since June/1997. Debra’s primary office is in East Lansing, in Anthony Hall on the campus of MSU.

In this role, Debra focuses on career exploration and workforce development along with fostering partnerships with MSU departments. Debra also serves as co-coordinator of the World Food Prize Michigan Youth Institute and supports 4-H alumni engagement efforts.

Debra’s expertise is teaching young people, and adults that work with young people, career exploration, financial literacy, youth entrepreneurship and workforce development topics. In addition to co-authoring both national and Michigan youth development curriculums, she has successfully taught both face to face and virtually on a variety of topics. Over the years Debra has shared her enthusiasm and ideas at a variety of conferences and has served as a content expert for two youth workforce development U.S.D.A. projects.

Debra has built her career around MSU Extension. She is additionally known for her work with staff development and supervision, volunteer management, mentoring, and inclusive programming.

Debra has a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a Master of Education in Educational Administration; both from Michigan State University. In addition, Debra is a Real Colors workshop facilitator and graduate of the National Extension Leadership Development Program.