Laura Kathleen Mondrey

L.K. Mondrey serves as Virginia Cooperative Extension's Natural Resources Youth Education Extension Specialist, a new faculty position established in August 2026. Although housed in the Nottoway Extension Office in Burkeville, Virginia, she holds a faculty appointment with Virginia Tech's Department of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation (FREC).

Growing up in Southside Virginia fostered a deep appreciation for forests, wildlife, and outdoor recreation. Drawing from her background in science education, educational leadership, and youth development, LK works to expand natural resources programs that equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to become future conservation leaders.

Prior to joining FREC, LK served as the 4-H Extension Agent for Amelia County for four years, where she expanded youth development programming, strengthened community partnerships, and connected local residents with Virginia Cooperative Extension resources. A lifelong 4-H member and Virginia 4-H All-Star, she remains actively involved in supporting 4-H at the local, district, state, and national levels.

A native of Nottoway County, LK and her family reside in Blackstone, Virginia. Her professional background includes experience in Extension, educational leadership, and secondary science education, spanning more than 20 years of service to Virginia youth and communities.

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Davidson College
• Secondary Teaching License, Longwood College
• Master of Science in Education Leadership and Supervision, Longwood University

Professional Experience

• Natural Resources Youth Education Extension Specialist, Virginia Cooperative Extension
• Associate Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development (4 years)
• Assistant Principal, Louisa County Middle School (4 years)
• Life Science Teacher, Prince Edward Middle School (3 years)
• Biology Teacher, Prince Edward High School, Southern Alamance High School, and Appomattox High School (6 years)

Professional Certifications

• Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, and Project WET Facilitator
• Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Basic Archery Instructor (BAI) and Basic Archery Instructor Trainer (BAIT)
• National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Instructor
• Virginia 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor (Archery, Rifle, and Pistol)
• Virginia Postgraduate Professional License, endorsed in Biology and K-12 Supervision and Administration

Professional Associations

• Association of Natural Resources Extension Professionals (ANREP)
• Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP)
• National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP)
• Virginia Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (VAE4-HYDP)
• Virginia Extension Service Association (VESA)