SHAWNEE, OK – May 11, 2025 – Avedis Foundation is pleased to recognize Sue Nelson as the recipient of the Michelle Briggs "We’re Here for Good"-
Service Award for her decades-long commitment to serving Pottawatomie County and its surrounding communities.
Created as an annual recognition, Avedis Foundation’s "We’re Here for Good" Service Award celebrates individuals whose service creates lasting impact in the community, honoring those who demonstrate compassion, humility, innovation, collaboration, and stewardship through outstanding community service and volunteerism.
A native Oklahoman, Nelson spent most of her professional career in the banking industry before her retirement a few years ago, which allowed her to expand her volunteer service. For more than 55 years, Nelson has devoted countless hours to organizations and causes that strengthen our community.
Nelson’s volunteer leadership has included service with the Salvation Army Board and Women’s Auxiliary, Shawnee Beautification, Faith 7 Basketball Tournament, International Finals Youth Rodeo, Hope House/ Youth and Family Resource Center, Pottawatomie County Junior Livestock Show, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce, Meals on Wheels, United Way of Pottawatomie County, and City of Shawnee Parks and Recreation Board, among others.
A nominator for Nelson described her as someone who is known for quietly helping others without recognition. Beyond her service, the nominator wrote, Nelson’s generosity and compassion set her apart. “All the years she delivered for Meals on Wheels to help homebound individuals have at least one meal a day, she never turned in a single mileage or expense report. The director reported that this made record-keeping difficult, but Sue refused the reimbursement so that more meals could be provided,” the nomination read.
“Sue Nelson embodies what it means to be ‘We’re Here for Good,’” said Dr. Kathy Laster, President and CEO of Avedis Foundation. “Her life has been dedicated to strengthening communities, encouraging others, and making sure no one feels forgotten. Her impact has touched multiple generations.”
The award includes a $5,000 grant to the nonprofit of Nelson’s choosing. The grant will be presented to The Salvation Army of Shawnee in Nelson’s honor.
“Sue’s heart for service is perhaps most evident through her decades-long commitment to the Salvation Army, an organization she deeply admires because, as she says, ‘The Salvation Army is about others,’” Dr. Laster concluded.
The award will be presented during Avedis Foundation’s Speaker Series luncheon on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 11:30 am-1:30 pm at the Heart of Oklahoma Expo Center in Shawnee, OK.
The luncheon will feature three-time national champion track and field superstar Charles Clark, who will deliver the keynote address and share his inspiring message on resilience and personal growth as he details his transition from the sixth fastest runner on the planet to an injured runner whose plans for the future would go off track from a career-debilitating injury.
Members of the public who wish to hear Charles Clark’s message or take part in celebrating Sue Nelson’s recognition are invited to attend the luncheon. Admission to the luncheon is free, but registration is required at gopogo.org/healthweek.
The Speaker Series luncheon is part of Health Week ‘26, sponsored by Avedis Foundation, a week-long initiative focused on promoting wellness and community engagement. Health Week ‘26 is a community collaboration of Avedis Foundation, Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County, Pioneer Library System, Pogo, Registered Dietitian Andrea Beck, Shawnee Parks & Recreation, and Shawnee YMCA.
For more information, visit avedisfoundation.org.