DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Patricia Cross
Patricia Cross
Office Associate
MSU Extension-Desoto County
Years in Position: 8 years
Years of service to MSU: 33 years
For the past eight years, Patricia Cross has been the welcoming face and voice of the Mississippi State University Extension Office in Desoto County. As an Office Associate, she plays a crucial role in daily operations, ensuring community members receive the support and resources they need.
“When someone walks in the door or calls our office for help, I am the first point of contact,” Cross said.
Her role extends beyond administrative duties -- she serves as a vital link between Extension programs and the people they impact. Whether she’s guiding visitors to the right resources, volunteering with the Lucky Leaders 4-H Club, or collaborating on special projects, Cross embraces every opportunity to make a difference. Building relationships with community members has become one of the most rewarding parts of her job.
“I have met a lot of very nice people -- some with fascinating stories and others with unique experiences,” she said. “It’s those connections that make my work so meaningful.”
One of her proudest accomplishments came during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing a need for continued outreach, Cross and her team developed "Grab-N-Go" kits -- educational activity bags designed to keep community engagement alive. What started as a small initiative with 30 bags quickly grew into an ongoing program that now distributes 300 bags across five local libraries and the Extension office.
“The best thing about this was reaching people who didn’t even know we existed. It introduced them to our programs and showed them what Extension has to offer,” Cross said.
Cross’ journey with Extension began through her children’s involvement in 4-H. Though she didn’t participate in the program as a child, she’s witnessed its impact firsthand as her children and grandchildren have grown up through 4-H.
“I’ve had the chance to see it come full circle. The opportunities and influence 4-H has had on our family are something I’m incredibly grateful for,” she said.
Known to her friends and colleagues as “She-She,” Cross has a passion for softball that began at age 16. She competed at the national level twice and later spent a decade coaching. She’s also a talented artist, painting murals in homes. Above all, she cherishes her time with her family, including her husband and four children.
From her warm welcome at the front desk to her commitment to community service, Cross embodies the mission of Extension -- connecting people with the knowledge and resources that enrich their lives.
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