Ferguson College of Agriculture

Mark, Megan, Ethan and Ashlyn Janus (Photo Courtesy of Megan Janus) 

 

Megan Janus, academic programs coordinator in the Oklahoma State University Ferguson College of Agriculture, was recognized with the Leave the Ladder Down Award at the 2024 University Awards Convocation.

 

The Leave the Ladder Down Award is given to a staff or faculty member who has mentored and encouraged others to reach their fullest potential.

 

“Megan exemplifies the values of this award through her commitment to mentoring others,” said Cynda Clary, associate dean of the Ferguson College of Agriculture. “She is a role model for the students and staff who work with her and has made a tremendous impact on those around her.”

 

A member of the Ferguson College staff since 2016, Janus manages a variety of programs and events within the college’s academic programs office and supervises several staff members and undergraduate student workers. As a supervisor, she nurtures her team’s growth by recognizing each person’s potential and developing opportunities for them to succeed in their roles.

 

Bri Cooper-Kordinak, Ferguson College academic programs specialist, said Janus was instrumental in building her confidence when working with students and empowering her to step into leadership roles.

 

“With her support and leadership, I have helped lead student employee training sessions and feel confident building balanced working relationships,” Cooper-Kordinak said.

 

Janus’ comprehensive training sessions for her students focus on professional preparedness and personal growth.

 

“Megan goes above and beyond to provide guidance that extends beyond our current positions,” said Easton Fraser, an animal science senior. “She often shares personal experiences and career insights that help us envision our future paths and motivate us toward our own goals.”

 

Dani Bellmer, assistant dean of the Ferguson College, described Janus as people-centered and an invaluable resource to faculty, staff and students.

 

“It is not uncommon to walk by her office and find a student talking about club treasurer details or a faculty member discussing curriculum change forms,” Bellmer said. “They are always greeted with a friendly face and a pleasant demeanor.”

 

Janus said the people within the Ferguson College are like a second family to her.  

 

“We care so much about our students, our families, and our faculty and staff in the Ferguson College,” she said. “It’s a wonderful place with an incredible work environment.”  

 

In fall 2024, Janus’ oldest son, Mark, began his freshman year at OSU studying agribusiness and agricultural communications. Janus said having her son enrolled in the Ferguson College has made her career even more meaningful. 

 

On the day she was honored with the prestigious award, Ferguson College administration and staff arranged for Janus’ family to attend the ceremony. 

 

“It was really great that my family got to be there,” Janus said. “For them to be proud of me and to be excited for this honor was truly an incredible experience.”  

 

Janus said she was honored to receive the Leave the Ladder Down Award, which deepened her appreciation for her role and the connections she has made.

 

“To have the opportunity to receive an award like this has been a huge blessing,” Janus said. “I’m thankful that I get to be in such a supportive role and am able to provide resources to the people I work with and the guidance to help them grow.”