This is a little similar to something we have in the works, but what we are working on makes it so everyone (not only staff users) can show extra appreciation for a post on their Discourse.
Why do you feel it should only be for staff users and not everyone?
I do see the appeal of pointing out a staff user’s like, but that could have a negative effect on the staff users as they would have to show preference for certain posts which could create segments or groups in the community with others feeling left out. Or what do you think?