FCS Ambassadors Newsletter Spring 2026
Save the Date!
Join us at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026. FCS-Ambassador Awards Luncheon “Having a Ball Since 1991” Oklahoma County OSU Extension Office.
President's Message
Jan Dawson
A message of encouragement and gratitude
As we move forward together through another busy season of programs, events and community outreach, I would like to pause and express two things: keep going and thank you.
Much of what we accomplish is made possible by the creativity, compassion and dedication you bring every single day. Whether you’re planning activities, supporting youth and families, partnering with others or simply stepping in to help when it’s needed most, you’re making a real difference.
When the calendar feels packed, and the challenges seem big, remember this: every positive interaction, every lesson taught, every moment spent helping others matters more than you know. The impact you create often reaches farther than you can see—opening doors, shaping experiences and strengthening communities one day at a time.
Thank you for showing up with commitment and heart. Thank you for your teamwork, your willingness to learn and your resilience in the face of challenges. Most of all, thank you for continuing to invest in work that changes lives.
Your efforts matter, and you’re appreciated more than words can say.
Advisor, Ex-Officio Message
Gina Peek
Greetings from the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension state office! In 2025, FCS Extension took a significant step forward in modernizing the grants process with the introduction of InfoReady software. This platform streamlined the application, review and award management processes, creating a more efficient and user-friendly experience for both applicants and administrators. The initial rollout was successful and has improved overall efficiency. This effort reflects our continued commitment to innovation and to providing effective tools that support strong ideas and meaningful work across our communities. As Extension continues to evolve, we have ongoing opportunities to refine how we serve, strengthen partnerships and invest in efforts that improve the well-being of individuals and families. FCS Ambassadors remains a key resource in supporting both innovative ideas and proven programs.
A simple reminder grounded in our work: lasting impact is built through connection and consistency. Thank you for your generosity, leadership and continued commitment to Family and Consumer Sciences Extension.
Financial Report Budget Snapshot | November 25, 2025
Jenni Klufa
Ambassador Report
- Total Revenue: $314,779.30
- Total Expenses: $43,394.81
- Total Value Endowment: $1,105,132.47
Fitch Report
- Total Revenue: $74,419.61
- Total Expenses: $7,863.20
- Total Value Endowment: $193,642.00
Thank you to every individual and group whose generosity continues to support the important work of the OSU FCS Ambassadors Endowment. As we look ahead to 2026, we encourage you to make your annual contribution to help sustain leadership, service and professional development opportunities across the state. A $25 donation is required to apply for an Ambassador grant. Contributions of any amount (minimum $10) are greatly appreciated to help us continue our mission. To give, please visit: OSU Giving.
Charter Members Retire in 2025
Two charter members of the CE-FCS Ambassadors retired from Extension in 2025, Brenda Miller and Janna Kelley.
Brenda Miller
Brenda Miller began her career as the FCS Educator in Okmulgee County in 1990. For the last 20 years, she has served as the FCS District Program Specialist for the Northeast District. Friends, family, colleagues and hundreds of OHCE members wore purple and wished her well at the 2025 State OHCE meeting in July. State OHCE President, Mildred Taylor, presented Brenda with an incredible quilt—purple, of course. When asked to reflect on how Ambassadors impacted her career, Brenda shared:
I was fortunate to begin my career with OSU Extension just as the FCS Ambassadors program was being established. As part of our involvement, each educator was encouraged to donate $10 annually to Ambassadors, and that’s how I became a Chartered Member. Throughout my Extension career, I have had the privilege of receiving several county and multi-county grants, a Fitch Fellowship and group awards through the Ambassadors program—far surpassing the amount I initially donated. The funds raised through Ambassadors have played a key role in elevating Family and Consumer Sciences, enabling innovative programming to thrive. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Lynda Harriman and the many retired Extension professionals who dedicated their time and efforts to establishing FCS Ambassadors and shaping OSU FCS Extension into what it is today. Their commitment has made a lasting impact on the field!
Janna Kelley
Janna Kelley retired from the Pontotoc County Extension Office after 39.5 years of service on January 5, 2026. She served as the FCS Educator as well as the County Extension Director. For her retirement gift, her close friends and colleagues, Debbie Sharp and Sonya McDaniel, spearheaded a campaign to purchase Janna a spot in the King Arthur French Pastry class held in Norwich, VT in April 2026. Her husband, Bryant, was in on the secret. Janna was also asked to reflect on the importance of the Ambassadors.
I remember when Dr. Harriman introduced the idea of Ambassadors to us. It was a time when we had no money to do programs in our counties. We all agreed to step up and support her with the Ambassador program. Little did we know how much impact that decision would have over the years. I have been fortunate enough to be the recipient of several Ambassador grants throughout my career. These grants have helped me purchase equipment and curriculum to enhance my county’s programs. I have served on many Ambassador committees and served as Ambassador President. I also love how Ambassadors include OHCE, Retired Educators, or anyone interested in helping fund educational programs.
Committee Reports
Grants & Awards
Amanda Lewis
The CE-FCS Ambassador Grants and Awards Applications are due April 10, 2026. All grant and award recipients will be recognized at the CE-FCS Ambassador Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Oklahoma County OSU Extension Conference Center. The application process will look different this year. We are now using a grants management software, InfoReady.
To access the InfoReady Portal, use Chrome or Edge (not Safari). For complete instructions, refer to Dr. Gina Peek’s email dated March 5, 2025, or contact Amanda Lewis at amanda.cox@okstate.edu for instructions.
Annual Meeting
Cheryl Lively
Join us as we celebrate 35 years of the FCS-Ambassador Program—preserving traditions, cultivating leadership and “having a Ball” every step of the way! Inspired by the iconic Ball® canning jar, this year’s theme highlights the long-lasting impact our ambassadors have made in strengthening families and communities across Oklahoma.
Come and enjoy food, fellowship and recognition of this year’s outstanding ambassadors. We can’t wait to gather, share stories and continue filling the “jars” of our FCS legacy with purpose and pride.
Reservations & Payments of $30 will be sent to:
Greer County OSU Extension
c/o Cheryl Lively
108 South Pennsylvania
Mangum, OK 73554
(580) 782-5502
cheryl.lively@okstate.edu
Let’s celebrate together—we’ve truly been having a Ball since 1991!
Public Relations
Stacey Dawson
April Hauenstein
The CE-FCS Ambassadors are pleased to report the success of the 2025 Silent Auction fundraiser, held during
the state OHCE meeting this past July. A total of $4,467 was raised, thanks to the generosity and efforts of
counties and individuals. This total reflects the purchase of 49 donated baskets and items, which brought in
$3,405, along with $1,062 in additional monetary donations made in lieu of items or as direct contributions to the Margaret Edsel Fitch and CE-FCS Ambassador Funds.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who participated—whether by donating, bidding or supporting the event in
other ways. Your contributions have made a meaningful impact, and we thank you for helping to make this fundraiser a success. We already look forward to next year’s auction!
Communications
Suzette Barta
Spring is a natural time to reflect on the purpose and value of the CE-FCS Ambassadors. Through shared
commitment and member support, the program continues to support and strengthen Family and Consumer Sciences work and the people who deliver it. Thank you to our members for your steady involvement and belief in the importance of FCS Extension. Your support helps ensure this work continues year after year.
I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to the inaugural Oklahoma Conference on Volunteerism to
be held June 26-27, 2026, on the OSU Stillwater campus. Our mission for the conference is to empower and equip Extension volunteers and educators to serve our communities effectively, which aligns very well with the work of the Ambassadors. For more information, visit OK Volunteerism.
2026 Nominees for CE-FCS Ambassadors
Election to be held at our annual meeting Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Oklahoma County OSU Extension Center.
- President-Elect: Megan Monteith
- Secretary: Kristy Bailey
- Treasurer: Janet Cunningham
- Directors: Penny King, Tommie James, Kathy Enyart, Candace Gable, and Amanda Rea Cox Lewis.
