Lynn Beam - FEW State President

HISTORY OF FAITHFUL EXTENSION WORKERS

During the annual meeting of the Oklahoma Association of Extension Home Economists May 4, 1967 retired Extension Home Economist and Past Presidents of the Association made plans to organize a group to fellowship and share news of members.

Emma Chandler was named the group’s first President, Jeffie Thompson, Secretary & Wild Shaefer, Assistant Secretary. Dues were set at 50 cents a year. Emma Chandler offered a “nickel” for the most suitable name for the group. Twenty-five attended and thirty-two paid dues the first year.

At the May 3, 1968 Annual Meeting a committee presented a suggested name of Faithful Extension Workers. This was accepted.

Emma Chandler served as President until 1974. In 1973 Geraldine Underwood was elected Co-Chairman. She followed Emma Chandler as President and served until her death in 1980.

Memorials have been given each year in honor of deceased members. In 1976 a gift for the scholarship fund was given to OSU Development Foundation.  In 1980 dues were increased to $1 and in 1988 to $2. This money is used primarily for postage and duplication of letters. Each year news and comments from members are summarized and mailed to the entire membership.

Fall fellowship get-together have been held in Ninnekah, Tahlequah, Oklahoma City, Kingston, Mannford, Claremore, Chandler, Pauls Valley, El Reno, Stillwater, Fort Cobb and Western Hills. In 1997 Faithful Extension Worker’s membership is fifty-three.  Activities include a breakfast meeting at the OEAFCS Annual Meeting and a Summer & Fall activity hosted by a member.