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Sharlean Briggs, Butler County coordinator for the Alabama Extension, has been named the Greenville Advocate’s Hero of the Week for her impactful community work.

“I really wanted the extension to be visible,” Briggs said. “To show the community who we are and what we do.”

Originally from Rochester, New York, Briggs relocated to Greenville after her parents retired to their hometown.

“I’m a mama’s girl, so I guess you could say I followed her here,” Briggs said. She brought with her a degree in business management and a background in financial services, eventually transitioning to the Butler County Extension and becoming the coordinator in 2000.

The Alabama Cooperative Extension System serves as the primary outreach arm of Alabama A&M University and Auburn University. Its mission is to deliver research-based education to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of individuals and communities. 

Under Briggs’ leadership, the Butler County Extension has expanded its reach and visibility, implementing diverse programs tailored to community needs.

Briggs has championed programs such as fraud and scam awareness for seniors, animal science projects with the Cattleman’s Association and the “Escape Vape” program, educating local students on the dangers of vaping. Through the extension’s 4-H program, she has organized birdhouse competitions and gardening initiatives like the raised garden project at W.O. Parmer Elementary School.

One of her most memorable initiatives involved a 13-week partnership with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department. 

“We did a program at the jail with some of the inmates,” Briggs said. “‘Inside Out Dad’ focused on inmates building relationships with their children while they were incarcerated and after.”

Briggs also works with nutritional programs aimed at teaching children and adults about healthy eating and managing chronic illnesses.

Bill and Elizabeth Taylor, owners of Flying Basset Farm, praised Briggs for her tireless work. 

“There’s just so much good to say about her,” Elizabeth Taylor said. “I thought I worked hard, but she works harder than I do.”

Bill Taylor recalled their involvement in Briggs’ projects, including building planters with elementary school students.

“She has that kind of personality… you can’t say no to her,” Bill said, noting that Briggs’ ability to rally community support has been a cornerstone of her success.

“She’s good at recognizing skill sets,” Bill said. “If she knows someone who’s good at something, she calls and asks.”

Outside of her professional life, Briggs is a caregiver for her father and serves on the board of directors at Covenant Warriors Christian Center, where she also leads the children’s church.

“She’s easy to become friends with,” Bill said. “If you need something, she’ll do anything she can for you.”