Hello, Colorado State University Extension Elbert County. This is Trena. How can I help you? For nearly 20 years, Trena Smith was the friendly voice that answered the phone. Whether you call in or stop by the office during the county fair, Trena was there to help you. She was always willing to assist anyone while answering every question. That’s just who she is. Her passion and dedication are admirable.

Trena was first exposed to the county extension office while growing up in Fort Collins, Colorado. In high school, her parents bought her a horse and she joined 4-H where she learned to care for her horse, enjoyed trail riding, and volunteered at the county fair. After getting married, Trena moved to Elbert County in 1970. The early years were filled with memories of showing horses and participating in track events. In getting involved with the 4-H program she became a horse project leader. In 1987, Trena joined the Elbert County Fair Board. During her tenure, she managed the commercial booths working with both food and specialty vendors located under the old wooden grandstands and around the fairgrounds. She also was a superintendent for the Open Gymkhana, helped with work nights at the fairgrounds, and took entries for the fair parade, among many other activities. August often would bring cloud bursts and monsoon rains. Trena recalls the numerous times the fair board had to adapt to moving shows and entertainment because of the torrential rain.

As a parent, Trena wanted her son Trevor and daughter Leslie to get involved in 4-H. Trena believed her kids should learn by doing. They learned to evaluate animals through horse and livestock judging. Both enjoyed showing horses, livestock, and general projects. She often reminded her kids that 4-H is about what you learn, not what you win. Trevor and Leslie both credit their passion for agriculture to the 4-H program.

In 2003, Trena joined the Elbert County Extension staff. She was a natural fit with her passion for 4-H, and living in Elbert County for several decades. Former Extension Agent Kipp Nye recalled working alongside Trena for many years. “Trena was a tremendous asset to the Extension Office and myself as a great resource for Fair history, knowledge of local traditions and introducing me to people from the county and throughout the state. She loved working with people of all ages and did it with a smile. Trena thoroughly enjoyed helping producers, new residents, and 4-Hers and their parents find information to answer questions and solve problems. She was always kind, resourceful, and willing to help. She is very deserving of this honor as Elbert County Fair Parade Grand Marshall.”