STILLWATER, Okla. – This spring, Oklahoma State University Extension has once again proven its power to transform lives through education, hands-on learning and inclusion. From livestock arenas to correctional gardens, Extension educators across Oklahoma have worked to empower youth, equip adults with practical skills and build stronger, more inclusive communities. The following five stories are just a few highlights from the 107 success stories submitted from September to December 2024.
In Caddo County, ag/4-H educator Celine Walker spent three days at the Oklahoma Youth Expo, one of the largest livestock shows in the country, supporting 4-H youth as they exhibited their animals. Walker was a steady source of encouragement, comfort and mentorship to young participants.
“One of the kids sent me a handwritten thank you card afterward,” Walker said. “It reminded me that even on the toughest days, our presence matters.”
The card now hangs on her office wall – a symbol of the difference Extension educators make in the lives of young people.
Meanwhile, inOttawa County, local ranchers were introduced to a dystocia simulator, used for practicing calf delivery, at a Cowgirl Confi dent workshop. One participant soon found herself relying on that training in a high-stress, real-world scenario. After discovering her cow, Willa, struggling to give birth alone in the woods, she drew upon what she learned at the workshop. With no help available, she used her newly acquired knowledge to successfully deliver the calf.
“I was fully prepared for a dead calf,” she recalled. “But he was alive. I did it and you can too!”
This story was shared by ag/4-H educator Reba Palmer, who continues to highlight impactful agricultural experiences for women.
In LeFlore County, the All For One Livestock Show welcomed 80 special needs youth and their families for a day of accessible, individualized livestock experiences. From adaptive facilities to caregiver resources, the show created a space where every participant could shine.
“This event gave my child an opportunity they never thought possible,” said one parent. “It was incredible to see their joy and pride.”
Community sponsors provided custom T-shirts, medically approved goodie bags and professional photos to commemorate the day. This story was shared by ag/4-H educator Liana Jones and is another testament to OSU Extension’s commitment to accessibility.
Another inspiring initiative took place in Garfield County, where family and consumer sciences educator Joy Rhodes led an eight-week strength training series for older adults as part of the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy curriculum. Designed to enhance balance, flexibility and mobility, the class had powerful outcomes. One participant, previously reliant on a lift chair, completed 20 sitto- stands unassisted by the end of the course.
“This class was a game changer for me,” she said. Other participants reported increased independence in daily tasks and a renewed vitality. Rhodes noted that social interaction and community walks have become valuable additions to the program, helping participants form friendships and lead healthier lifestyles.
Perhaps one of the most transformational stories this spring came from inside a women’s correctional facility. Kimberly Cripps, a family and consumer sciences educator and area coordinator for the Community Nutrition Education Program, led a gardening and nutrition course that brought together gardening, composting and healthy eating habits.
Incarcerated women rebuilt garden plots with hand tools, created compost bins and began harvesting fresh produce – some of which they donated to staff and others in the facility.
“This class has allowed me to learn how to live healthier and has given me tools I can use when I return home to my family,” said Vanessa Simpson, a participant in the program. “Working in the garden every day has changed my mindset, my habits and my hope for the future.”
The program plans to eventually sell produce to fund future classes.
These five examples represent only a fraction of the work accomplished in OSU Extension as a trusted partner and catalyst for growth across Oklahoma’s diverse communities.
