Penny Rachal

Extension Agent I, Adams County
Years in position: 5
Years at MSU: 24

Penny Rachal said working at Mississippi State University over the past 24 years has provided opportunities for growth and advancement.

“I’m grateful for the educational opportunities to obtain long-term goals, a bachelor’s degree in 2012 and a master’s in 2021,” said Rachal. “If I did not have a career at MSU Extension, I probably would be still working on or given up on those goals.”

After working as an office associate for 19 years, she became an Extension agent in Adams County in 2018 and now helps others achieve their goals. 

“I put my best foot forward every day – doing all that I can to make sure that the people in Adams County and surrounding communities are aware of who we are and what services Extension offers. Every day, I have an opportunity to sew good seeds,” said Rachal.

As an Extension agent, Rachal serves clientele in the areas of 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, and community resource development. One of the many groups she works with is the Mississippi Homemaker Volunteers, and her favorite memory is the sewing project with the group.

“We stitched up blankets, pillows, therapy dolls, and the like to help make someone else’s life better. Everyone was included in some way. If they couldn’t sew, they would cut. If they couldn’t cut, they would press. If they couldn’t press, they counted. We had such good food, fun and fellowship. I am encouraged and motivated by our seasoned seniors!” said Rachal.

Rachal also shared another favorite memory of teaching basic sewing to youth ages 7 -12. 

“I told them that the seam ripper would be their best friend, and one girl said, ‘I thought they said diamonds are a girl’s best friend.’ It was hilarious!”

When she’s not teaching as an Extension agent, she’s teaching at her church, as well as singing. She also loves reading, fishing, traveling, and spending quality time with her three children and 10 grandchildren.