The Cottonwood Extension District welcomes Karissa Frasier to the Ellis County office as a Community Health Worker. Karissa will begin her new role on May 1, bringing experience and a strong commitment to health education and outreach.

Karissa is no stranger to K-State Research and Extension. She began her career in April 2022 as a SNAP-Ed Assistant in the Wildcat District, where she provided nutrition education to individuals and families. In June 2023, she joined the Cottonwood Extension District as the Family and Community Wellness Agent serving Barton County, a role she held until March 2025. Her background working directly with community members and her passion for wellness make her a great fit for this new position.

Karissa’s position is part of the Rural Ag Health Community Health Worker Project, which aims to improve and sustain the health and safety of rural Kansans and the agricultural workforce. This statewide initiative is establishing resource and service hubs staffed by Community Health Workers who are co-supervised by local K-State Research and Extension units and health care partners. In addition to providing vital connections to health and social services, the project is also creating jobs and strengthening communities through community development.

As a Community Health Worker, Karissa will serve as a bridge between individuals and local resources — helping residents navigate health systems, access care, and adopt healthier lifestyles.