Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will honor the retirements of two remarkable women who have dedicated their careers to serving Iowa’s youth, agriculture, and communities: Beth Doran, Beef Specialist, and Anita Jeltema, Assistant Bookkeeper.
A celebration will be held on Wednesday, September 24th, from 10–11:30 a.m. at the ISU Extension and Outreach, Sioux County Office, with coffee and treats provided.
Beth Doran: A Voice for Iowa’s Beef Industry
Beth Doran has spent over 30 years with ISU Extension and Outreach, including 27 years as a Beef Specialist serving 17 counties in northwest Iowa. Her career began in youth development, including work with Michigan State University Extension and 4-H, before transitioning into livestock education.
Raised on a crop and beef farm near Boone, Iowa, Beth’s passion for cattle started early. She showed cattle at county, national, and international levels as a youth, and continued showing breeding stock for over a decade. Her deep understanding of the beef industry and her grassroots approach made her a trusted advisor to producers across the region.
Beth led key initiatives such as the Feedlot Forum, Beef Quality Assurance, and programs that bridged agriculture and mental health. Her work has helped producers navigate challenges ranging from weather and economics to health and sustainability. Beth’s legacy is one of leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to Iowa agriculture.
In recognition of her lifelong commitment to youth and agriculture, Beth was inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in 2025, a testament to her enduring impact on generations of Iowans.
Anita Jeltema: A Champion for Youth and Community
Anita first retired in 2019, but her expertise and dedication to ISU Extension and Outreach brought her back in 2021. Since then, she has been a cornerstone of the Sioux County Extension office, serving as an assistant bookkeeper. Her career has been marked by a deep commitment to youth development, volunteer support, and community engagement.
Anita was inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in 2019, recognized for her outstanding service and leadership. She has been instrumental in growing the 4-H program in Sioux County, mentoring youth, supporting club leaders, and fostering a culture of learning and inclusion.
Known for her warmth, organization, and dedication, Anita has left a lasting impact on families, volunteers, and colleagues alike. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her influence will continue through the lives she’s touched.
Together, Beth and Anita represent the heart of ISU Extension and Outreach. Dedicated professionals who have spent their careers helping Iowans grow, learn, and thrive. Their work has touched lives across generations, strengthened communities, and advanced agriculture and education in meaningful ways. They truly embody the spirit of ISU Extension and Outreach.
