Teresa Palma Named Johnston County Extension Agent

SMITHFIELD, N.C. —Johnston County residents seeking information on nutrition, health, food safety and family well-being will have a new resource.

Teresa Palma has joined the Johnston County Extension Center as its new Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent.

A native of Bath, North Carolina, Palma brings more than 27 years of experience in public education, including teaching Family and Consumer Sciences courses such as Culinary Arts, Foods and Nutrition. She has also served in school leadership roles and worked extensively with students, families and educators.

Palma earned a bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from East Carolina University and a master’s degree in Education Leadership from George Washington University.

She said her upbringing in eastern North Carolina helped shape her appreciation for agriculture and nutrition. Raised near tobacco fields and a family garden, Palma said some of her earliest memories involved learning where food comes from.

“Some of my earliest memories are working in our family garden and learning where food comes from,” Palma said. “Joining Extension feels like a natural way to bring together my passions for education, nutrition, agriculture and community service.”

Palma said she looks forward to connecting residents with practical, research-based information that can improve everyday life for individuals and families.

“I am honored to join NC State Extension and serve the citizens of Johnston County,” Palma said. “Family and Consumer Sciences has always been at the heart of my work, and I am excited to connect residents with research-based resources that help individuals and families thrive.”

She also expressed enthusiasm for Johnston County’s agricultural community and the opportunity to promote local agriculture.

“I look forward to highlighting the incredible agricultural heritage of Johnston County, promoting local produce, and supporting initiatives such as JoCo Grows Agriculture and the many programs offered through NC State Extension,” Palma said.

Bryant Spivey, Johnston County Extension Director, said Palma’s background in education and leadership will be a valuable asset to the organization.

“We are thrilled to welcome Teresa Palma to our Extension team,” Spivey said. “Her extensive background in Family and Consumer Sciences and school leadership makes her an outstanding addition to our organization.”

Palma joined the Johnston County Extension staff on June 1.