Brenda Rogers leaves Manatee County government to take regional job with UF IFAS

MANATEE -- After more than 30 years working for Manatee County government, Brenda Rogers is returning to her agricultural roots.

Rogers, the county's community services department director, will become a district extension director with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

"It is really a lot of mixed emotions," said Rogers, who began with the county in 1983. "I am excited about the opportunity, but what you are leaving is relationships and friendships. It's been a part of my life for a long, long time."

Rogers' last day with the county will be Thursday, as she begins the new job Friday.

Rogers, who will oversee the extension programs for the district, which extends from Pasco to Collier counties and includes Polk, Hardee and Desoto counties, said it is an opportunity to engage in programs and projects that have always interested her.

"I love being around cows," said Rogers, whose family were dairy cow farmers. "That's something that's been part of my life since my birth. Being back close to the land, that's something that I am looking forward to."

Rogers began her stint with the county in 1983 as an extension agent, working her way up to being appointed the extension director on Feb. 29, 2000. Rogers was named the community services department director in September 2010.

County Administrator Ed Hunzeker has been very supportive through the career change, Rogers said.

"I can't even tell you what a tremendous opportunity it has been to work for Ed Hunzeker," she said. "He knows that agriculture is my passion. He supported me in every way through the process. ...I 've just been really honored to work for him."

Hunzeker said Rogers will be difficult to replace.

"Her dedication to our county government and to our community has made a positive difference in the lives of hundreds -- probably thousands -- of Manatee County families," Hunzeker said. "She is well-known and respected in so many influential circles around Manatee County and she will be sorely missed."

Nick Azzara, county spokesman, said more details are to come in the search for Rogers' replacement. According to the Bradenton Herald county salary database from last July, Rogers' salary was $118,227.20.

Rogers said she will miss the people the most.

"I have truly been honored to be part of a group that does tremendous work day in and day out," she said. "A lot of it goes unnoticed by the citizens unless it doesn't work. To see the drive to make things better for our citizens and be part of that has been a tremendous opportunity. I know it's the relationships and the people that you miss."

Along with the relationships she's developed, Rogers' most memorable experience has been the opportunities.

"I am just appreciative for the opportunities I've had," she said. "I've had support in education. I've had support in leadership development. I've been even able to have ideas that failed and you are not punished for your failures. Just that general work environment that encourages innovation and person growth. ...I'm appreciative of all the people that have supported me through the time I've been with the county. I will truly miss the day-to day camaraderie."

But while Rogers will be leaving Manatee County government, she will still live in Manatee County.

"I'm very invested in our community and that's not going to change," she said. "They will see me around."

Claire Aronson, Manatee County reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7024. Follow her on Twitter@Claire_Aronson.

This story was originally published January 11, 2016 at 5:17 PM with the headline "Brenda Rogers leaves Manatee County government to take regional job with UF IFAS ."