 For
over 33 years, Susan Halbert has helped groups of all sizes foster successful collaborations and realize results.
Her extensive career within the 4-H youth development movement included various leadership positions with Cornell
University Cooperative Extension, the University of Alaska and, most recently, 17 years as a senior executive with
National 4-H Council.
Focusing on organization development throughout her career, Susan has gained experience as a:
- Teacher and trainer
- Group facilitator
- Curriculum developer
- Evaluator
- Coach and mentor
Today, Susan applies her knowledge - along with a perpetually growing cache of
tools - to convening communities and leading groups toward focused, effective action.
A Philosophy Grounded in Clarity
Susan's approach to collaboration and change stems from her belief that
the solutions already exist within the group. Her role is to create the environment and/or a plan that will draw
those solutions to the surface.
For every project, Susan begins with a simple yet often underestimated step: listening. This is the only way to
identify core needs and issues, not just symptoms.
Her working process is then guided by several basic principles:
- Allow the situation to determine techniques and methods
- Identify and include all key individuals and stakeholders
- Remain neutral, flexible and open to ideas from the group
- Draw from a variety of proven tools and skill sets
- Stay focused on the present, not the past.
Susan's experiential model ensures the work stays in the hands of those in the
group.
Training, Education and Honors
Susan earned her bachelor's degree in sociology and master's degree in
community organization administration from the SUNY Albany and the University of Rochester (NY) respectively. She
also earned certificates from the esteemed Gestalt Institute of Cleveland in coaching, organization and systems
development and working integrally with two-person systems. Susan is currently a doctoral candidate in public administration
and policy at Virginia Tech University.
Throughout her career, Susan has received numerous honors, including the National State Leadership Award from the
US Consumer Product Safety Commission and special service, distinguished service and meritorious service awards
from the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents.
Find out more about how Susan's Services can help you achieve your goals.
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