March 28, 2024

Friends of 4-H seeks nominations for Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame

Union County Friends of 4-H is seeking nominations for individuals or couples to be inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame. The honor was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H. Since that time, Union County has recognized deserving people for their contributions to the 4-H program here.

“Union County has a rich 4-H history that goes back to 1927, when Helen Chicken founded the county’s first 4-H club in Sand Creek Township,” said Barb Wilmeth, president of Friends of 4-H. “A lot of people have contributed to the program through the last 90 years, and we really need nominations from throughout the community to ensure we recognize those who deserve to be honored.”

Nomination forms are available on the Union County Extension website at www.extension.iastate.edu/union; at the extension office, 105 W. Taylor St., in Creston; by calling the office at 641-782-8426 or by contacting any member of the Union County Friends of 4-H.

Individuals or couples should be nominated based on their citizenship, leadership, character and contributions as a mentor or role model. The Hall of Fame recognizes 4-H pioneers, long-time 4-H volunteers, 4-H professionals and support staff and others whose contributions have made a difference to the 4-H program. Nominees may be living or deceased. Members of Friends of 4-H will select the inductee(s) from nominations submitted. Those selected will be recognized at the Union County Fair, and their names will be added to a plaque hanging at the extension office. In addition, the honorees will be recognized at a special ceremony at the Iowa State Fair celebrating their induction into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.

Previous recipients include: 2018 – Bob and Joyce Cooper, 2017 – Jack and Mona Quee, 2016 – Bob Crittenden, 2015 – Mary O'Riley, 2014 – Verna Bailey and the late Paul Bailey, 2013 – Dennis and Pauline Sweet, 2012 – Darwin West, 2011 – Carol Glynn, 2010 – Dr. Al and Pat Pokorny, 2009 – Ruby Stephens, 2008 – Sharon Bennett, 2007 – Charles (Chuck) Ehm, 2006 – Sandra Cheers, 2005 – Mary Clayton, 2004 – Carl Eklund, 2003 – no recipient and 2002 – Judge Maxwell.

Completed nomination forms are due to the extension office by May 1. Forms are kept on file for consideration in following years, if the nominee is not selected.