When clients walk into the Oklahoma State University Extension office in Marshall County, Susan Stepp is there to welcome them. For 18 years, she has demonstrated outstanding customer service to everyone who walks through the door.

Her dedication to her job was recognized with the Heart of Extension award at an awards luncheon 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.

Amanda Lewis, OSU Extension educator in family and consumer sciences for Marshall/Johnston counties, said Stepp continually demonstrates exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills.

“In the face of ongoing staffing challenges, she proactively stepped in to coordinate events, organize logistics and ensure program quality,” Lewis said. “She consistently finds ways to overcome obstacles, whether by reorganizing workflows, identifying alternative solutions or leveraging available resources to meet program needs.”

Throughout her 18-year career, Stepp has been a collaborative and supportive team member who contributes to every aspect of the office’s success. She works seamlessly with educators, 4-H members, volunteers and leadership, stepping in wherever needed without hesitation. Lewis said Stepp’s dedication to teamwork goes beyond the borders of Marshall County.

“She travels to other counties to train and mentor new support staff, and she’s behind the scenes of area and district events, creating marketing materials, taking registrations and organizing everything from paperwork to people to ensure the events run smoothly,” she said. “Susan continually looks for ways to improve processes, demonstrates initiative and acts without requiring direction. Her impact on our office cannot be overstated. She embodies the spirit of Extension through her reliability, compassion and unwavering work ethic.”

Stepp said there are many aspects of her job that she loves, but interacting with the public is her favorite.

“I love interacting with the people of Marshall County, and especially our 4-H members,” she said. “I didn’t grow up in Marshall County, so this job has allowed me to meet hundreds of people and create lifelong friendships, both professionally and personally. I have a close relationship with all the educators I’ve supported over the years. They’ve always made the job fun. We are a family.”

Stepp said she feels honored to be recognized with the Heart of Extension award.

“It was an honor just to be nominated. This job has always been important to me, and I have always strived to give it my best,” she said. “This is absolutely the highlight of my career with OSU Extension.”