K-State honors Cathy Oehm as Professional Staff of the Week

Cathy Oehm, assistant director for Purchasing and Contract Services in the Division of Financial Services, will be honored as Professional Staff of the Week at the Feb. 18 home basketball game.

Oehm has been on the Purchasing and Contract Services team since fall 2015. She assisted in transforming the team from paper-based operations to a fully automated environment, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery in a remote setting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oehm served on the project implementation team for the Contract Lifecycle Management system, streamlining contract intake, review, approval and storage processes.

Oehm has demonstrated adaptability and resilient leadership during organizational change, successfully guiding the team through digital transformation and continuous improvement. Known for building strong, collaborative relationships with departments across campus, she is frequently the go-to resource for unusual or non-standard procurement needs. Her expertise, problem-solving approach and commitment to service have made her a trusted partner to both colleagues and stakeholders.

The Faculty and Professional Staff of the Week recognitions are coordinated by Faculty Senate, the Office of the President and K-State Athletics. Recipients are selected by Faculty Senate caucuses, provided tickets to a home basketball game of their choice and honored during halftime as a small token of appreciation for their service to K-State.

— Submitted by Susanne Renberg