Anyone who has ventured into the Oklahoma State University Extension office in Coal County has interacted with Audra Price. For 36 years, Price has been the heartbeat of the office, providing quality service, a kind word and a friendly smile.

Her qualities as a hard worker, team player and mentor recently earned her recognition as one of the 2026 Heart of Extension award winners during the recent 2026 Biennial Administrative Support Staff Conference. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional customer service, creative problem-solving, teamwork, initiative, efficiency and an unwavering commitment to the OSU Extension mission.

She’s the first voice callers hear; she’s the first face visitors see, said Kelsey Ratcliff, OSU Extension family and consumer sciences area specialist of health disparities for the Southeast District.

“She is the face of the office, the person community members trust and the one who handles concerns long before they reach anyone else in the office,” Ratcliff said. “If a problem can be solved, Audra solves it. Her accuracy is legendary, and she manages the office with meticulous precision, accounting for every penny. Her kindness, patience and professionalism set the tone for the entire office and shape the public perception of OSU Extension in Coal County.”

Price’s creative problem-solving skills are legendary. She single-handedly created the office’s filing system, aligning it directly with civil rights procedures and ensuring compliance, clarity and consistency. She continues to take the initiative to learn new computer programs and master them because she knows the office depends on her. Price doesn’t wait to be asked; she sees what needs to be done and does it.

Casey Russell, the county Extension director for Atoka/Coal counties, said teamwork is woven into every aspect of Price’s work.

“Audra has mentored every new educator who has come through Coal County, and helped them understand expectations, procedures and community needs,” Russell said. “She keeps the entire office on track by monitoring deadlines, organizing documents and ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.”

Price was also instrumental in sustaining the 4-H Youth Development program during years that Coal County didn’t have a dedicated educator. She managed volunteer compliance, assisted with events and helped plan the annual 4-H banquet. In addition, she has supported the Oklahoma Home and Community Education organization during educator vacancies.

“Audra’s teamwork isn’t limited to tasks; it’s rooted in genuine care for the people she works with,” Russell said.

Price’s stability, mentorship, kindness and extensive institutional knowledge have shaped generations of staff and supported thousands of community members. Through every transition, challenge and change, she has been steadfast in her commitment to the OSU Extension Coal County office.

“Audra is, in every sense, the heart of Extension in Coal County,” Ratcliff said. “Her stability, mentorship, kindness and deep institutional knowledge have shaped generations of staff and supported thousands of community members. Her service isn’t only exemplary; it is foundational.”

Price said she is grateful and honored to have been nominated for this award.

“I enjoy getting acquainted with new people and helping the people who come to OSU Extension with their needs,” she said.

Story By: Trisha Gedon | trisha.gedon@okstate.edu