Celebrating Service Over Self: Wallowa County Honors Commissioner Susan Roberts
By Tracy Christopher on Thursday, June 12th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
WALLOWA COUNTY, OREGON — With heartfelt stories, laughter, and deep gratitude, community members gathered to honor Wallowa County Commissioner Susan Roberts at her retirement celebration this week. The event paid tribute to her decades of service and the quiet, steady leadership that has helped shape the county—and earned respect far beyond it.
While others may speak of leaving a legacy, Roberts made it clear that was never her goal.
“When people get into politics, they’re often asked why,” she shared during her remarks. “Some say it’s to leave a legacy. But if you’re in it for that, you’re in it for the wrong reasons. My legacy,” she said plainly, “is that I hired the best people I could find. They were knowledgeable, I let them do their jobs, and tried to give them what they needed to do it well and safely.”
That humility was echoed by fellow speakers, who praised Roberts for her integrity, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the county and its people. Stories shared included both touching memories and humorous moments—like the mystery of a missing cake, which someone joked had “disappeared due to Susan’s popularity.”
A collection basket was set up for those wishing to contribute in honor of her service, and guests were invited to leave notes or gifts as tokens of appreciation.
Roberts’ legacy isn’t built on titles or trophies, but on the strength of the teams she empowered and the values she upheld. Her retirement marks the end of an era in Wallowa County government—but her influence will continue in the work of those she supported and inspired.
As one speaker put it, “Susan didn’t just serve Wallowa County. She lifted it.”
