2026 State of Inclusive Excellence
As extension, our work is meant to meet people where they are. Our programs need to reach all Oregonians not only where they are but in a way they need the programing to reach them. Collaborating with our Tribes gives opportunities to build meaningful relationships and create culturally appropriate programming that meets each Tribe where it is, and in a way that is meaningful. The GPSS program has provided opportunities to improve lives of those in each cohort, the communities that surround them and the systems of Tribal Government relations, Extension understanding and program impact. With this program we were able to share with fellow extension colleagues how we in Oregon are working collaboratively, and impactfully with our Tribes providing inspiration and giving depth to our practices.
There are few opportunities available to work alongside our local Tribe on a new program, that truly incorporates their values, traditions and community needs. Food preservation is a vital part of the local Tribal culture, tradition, and lifeways. Developing a food preservation training program that is customizable for each Tribe, demonstrated we as people and as OSU understand the needs for each Tribe are different, the cultures are different, and the traditions are different. They are their own people.
Prior to development of GPSS Tribes were excluded from making edits or input on the statewide food preservation program. Members had to travel long distances to participate in the courses, and cultural accommodation or acknowledgements were rarely present.
This program reduces several access barriers to participation for Tribal nations residing in Oregon.
The program integration of local traditions and culture were in collaboration with Tribal partners, for CTWS, it was the Culture and Heritage Department who provided insight, feedback and approved all cultural teachings. This partner also encouraged a mix of community members to be part of the cohort, which the site delivered. When cohort participants began leading their own workshops, we connected with the local radio station who advertised each event and did a spotlight on their show with recorded interviews. Workshops were open and free to community members, each having great attendance and active participation. The community came out to support the participants and encourage them in their learning.
Work at the CTWS location deeply reflects the Land Grant mission of OSU. It is an example of integrating programming, to better serve the most crucial communities as a Land Grant Institution, our Tribal Nations, in a collaborative and good way.
For the CTWS portion of this program, every aspect of the development, delivery, and reporting was intentional and had meaning.
Connection and relationship building with each cohort participant, being a trusted person, life experience, and being a knowledgeable educator were aspects of this program that aided created successful learning pathways and success for our participants.
Incorporated space for everyone to share as they felt comfortable to do so, holding lots of free-flowing discussions, knowing when appropriate for me to share and when not to share.
Current happenings occurring within the community were incorporated into the sessions as appropriate and needed for the group. Lived experience of all participants, and program delivery team were given respect and space within the program.
A deeper connection between CTWS leaders and OSU extension, and respect for how program was developed and delivered.
New bonds were created within participating cohort, some had never spoken with each other prior to joining and left the class with new found friendships and most importantly supportive community members.
Widespread recognition shines a light on the importance of reducing barriers and working alongside our communities to develop and create programming that centers their voices, their strengths, and reinforces our purpose within education.
Pushing the bounds from continuing what we’ve always done to exploring what we could do gives me hope. For every Oregonian to feel heard, seen, and a vital part of who we are as Extension. I see several opportunities to advance inclusive excellence within my area both geographically and within the extension service. Support for trying something different determines the success and impact of those opportunities.
