Viebrock Honored Nationally For Service To NCW

A staple of North Central Washington Ag has been honored for her decades of hard work.  Earlier this summer, WSU-Extension leader and educator Margaret Viebrock was honored with the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences' 2019 Distinguished Service Award.  Viebrock was hired in 1970, teaching those in Douglas and Chelan counties how to use microwaves and small appliances.

"Family and consumer science is constantly changing, and that’s what keeps it satisfying," Viebrock said. "The job is ever‑changing as I try to meet people's learning needs, whether it's diabetes prevention, helping women farmers be successful, working with consumers, food preparers and restaurant managers on safe cooking and canning, or helping families improve their parenting skills."

Over her WSU career, Viebrock has earned many awards and grants for her work with farm families, women in agriculture, Spanish-speaking families, and for helping people develop specialty food products, walking programs and economic development.

A certified family and consumer scientist, Viebrock serves on the national board for the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences. A certified instructor and proctor for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, she has taught safe food handling classes for more than 15 years.

"It's humbling to be recognized by my peers and the national organization, but also very reassuring that I’m doing what is important for families and communities," Viebrock said. "Being an outstanding Extension professional takes a lot of effort and dedication, and it’s only for the person who wants to make a difference with families and communities. Over nearly 50 years, I feel that I've succeeded in that, and that’s gratifying."

Established in 1979, the Distinguished Service Award is the most prestigious honor in family and consumer science, recognizing professional achievement and sustained leadership.

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