WSU’s Viebrock Honored For Over Half A Century Of Service

Washington State University’s longest serving extension specialist is being recognized for her 55 years of serving the state.

While a lot has changed since 1970, Margaret Viebrock says one thing that never changed was her mission of strengthening her community never has.

“I like to connect with people,” Viebrock said. “I began with teaching people how to cook with microwaves safely. Then, as now, we use university research and information to guide our educational work. I’m most proud of the many people we’ve helped.” 

Making An Impact In the North Central Washington Community

As director of Chelan-Douglas County Extension, Viebrock has helped educate fellow Washingtonians about food safety, parenting, youth development, and nutrition education. 

“That ‘aha’ moment from people of ‘oh, that’s why food preservation has to be done this way,’ or ‘that’s how you communicate with youth and set limits’ — you really see people digesting what you’ve taught,” she said. “Later, it’s exciting when they report back that your recommendations worked.” 

Prior to receiving WSU’s length-of-service award, the National Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (NEAFCS) bestowed their Hall of Fame Award to Viebrock. Then, Washington Association of Family and Consumer Sciences also awarded her and the Chelan-Douglas SNAP-Ed Nutrition Education program the 2025 Group Contributing to the Betterment of Families award.

Viebrock's Leadership Has Elevated WSU

“These awards represent rare and distinguished honors that celebrate sustained, transformational impact across our state and nation,” said WSU Extension Director Vicki McCracken. “For over 55 years, Margaret’s leadership has elevated the Extension profession and delivered measurable benefits to families and communities, setting a national bar for innovation, service, and excellence. These awards speak to that remarkable achievement.” 

“When I started working for WSU Extension, not many women were farm owners,” Viebrock said. “Now, nearly half of the farms in Washington list a woman as the main operator. I’m proud we could help support women-owned farms in my time with WSU.”

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