Ann Howard

Office Associate
MSU Extension – George County
Years of Service to MSU: 20

Twenty years ago, Ann Howard was seeking more than a job; she was looking for a career that would allow her to grow professionally while remaining fully present for her children. After a conversation with her father about opportunities within Extension, she applied for and was hired as an office associate. What began as a practical decision has developed into a two-decade career defined by service, leadership and community impact.

“The position allowed me to build a meaningful career while still being there for my children’s school and sporting events,” Howard said. “It was the perfect balance.”

In her role with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, Howard is often described as the steady force behind successful programs and events. From coordinating advertisements, designing flyers and managing newsletter mailouts to overseeing event registration and logistics, she ensures every detail is handled with care. On event days, she welcomes participants, manages sign-in, prepares materials and assists with setup and coordination from start to finish.

Her day-to-day responsibilities are equally diverse. Howard answers phones, assists walk-in clients, processes soil samples, and helps direct inquiries regarding weed and insect identification. Her institutional knowledge and commitment to service make her an essential resource for both Extension agents and community members.

“Anything I can do to help our office be successful is at the top of my priority list,” Howard said.

Her professionalism and leadership have not gone unnoticed. In 2011, she received the MSU Office Associate Leadership Award and was later elected MSU Office Associates President by her peers across four regions and all 82 counties—a distinction that reflects the respect she has earned statewide.

“It was an honor to be elected,” Howard said. “I had the opportunity to coordinate trainings and conferences, from selecting guest speakers to choosing event spaces.”

Beyond the office, Howard’s presence in the community is unmistakable. She often encounters young people and families who recognize her from Extension programs.

“It’s a joy to have kids recognize me in stores and tell their parents they know me from MSU Extension,” she said.

The commitment to family that initially drew Howard to Extension remains central to her life today. Now a proud mother of four, grandmother of nine and great-grandmother of one, she continues to value the work-life balance that has allowed her to invest deeply in both her career and her family.

For Howard, Extension has provided more than employment; it has offered purpose, professional growth and the opportunity to serve her community while remaining grounded in what matters most.