Oklahoma State University Extension educators and volunteers from across Oklahoma attended the inaugural Oklahoma Conference on Volunteerism, held June 26-27.

Focusing on Family and Consumer Sciences, 4-H Youth Development, Master Gardeners and Rural Development, the two-day event provided learning opportunities, networking and leadership development to strengthen the community’s values through Extension experiences.

“The strength of Extension is our volunteers,” said Suzette Barta, statewide coordinator of the Master Family and Consumer Sciences Volunteer Program. “This conference provided valuable opportunities for volunteers to grow as leaders, connect with others across Extension and return home with new ideas to better serve their communities.”

A variety of hands-on learning experiences, educational classes and workshops were provided for participants. Topics included increasing volunteer capacity and engagement, communication strategies, horticulture, risk management, artificial intelligence, food safety and more.

In addition, participants heard from keynote speaker Martin J. Cowling.

“Martin Cowling’s message was a powerful reminder that volunteers are at the heart of thriving communities, and that respect, belonging, and meaningful impact are key to sustaining their engagement,” said Damona Doye, associate vice president of OSU Extension.

A key part of the conference was the volunteer awards.

Tammy Elliot, of Cleveland County, was named the 2026 Oklahoma Master Family and Consumer Sciences Volunteer of the Year.

Grady County OHCE was awarded the Excellence in Extension Volunteerism Award for Kitchen Basics for Youth.

Beaver County 4-H Club was awarded the Excellence in Teamwork Award for the Grab and Go program.

Pontotoc County Master Gardeners, 4-H Innovators and Partners, was awarded the Excellence in Community Partnership award for Monarch Butterfly Day.

Liz Taylor, of Grady County, was presented with the Excellence in Volunteer Engagement award.

Denise Tulloh, of Cotton County, was named the Oklahoma 4-H State Lifetime Volunteer of the Year in addition to West District Lifetime Volunteer of the Year.

Rachel Gronwald, of Pittsburg County, was named the Oklahoma 4-H State Volunteer of the Year and Southeast District Volunteer of the Year.

“I hope attendees return home with new ideas, practical tools and renewed energy for their volunteer work,” said Karla Knoepfli, OSU Extension state volunteer specialist. “Just as importantly, I hope they leave with new connections and a broader understanding of the incredible work happening across Extension.”

Story By: Taylor Yount | taylor.yount@okstate.edu