Minnell Tralle, Extension Educator, University of Minnesota Extension, was awarded the Ruth Hathaway Jewson Distinguished Service to Families Award, which is given to a professional in the family field who is a member of NCFR and MCFR, and is recognized for outstanding work on behalf of families.

Minnell, nominated by Rose Allen, has contributed to the well being of Minnesota families for over 30 years as an Extension Educator, focusing on family relations with the University of Minnesota Extension.

She is an author and contributor of many curriculums, including Positive Parenting and Parents Forever.

She has served the family field as a long-time board member of MCFR, including serving as secretary and president.

Recently, she was elected to serve a six-year term as chair-elect and chair of the NCFR – Association of Councils.

Minnell has focused her life’s mission on family – starting with her own family as she and her husband, Jim, raised two wonderful sons; the families in her community as a county-based Extension Educator; and Minnesota families, particularly those going through divorce and family transition, in her role as a Family Relations Educator and leader of the Parents Forever project.

In each of her roles, Minnell has made a difference for Minnesota families and the family field in Minnesota.