Betty Gottler, an Alabama 4-H alumna, knew from a young age that 4-H was her life’s work. Her mother was an Extension agent when she met her father at a research station program. The Gottler’s provided leadership in two clubs. Betty and her two brothers, Johnny and Jim, excelled in Alabama 4-H, earning Achievement Awards and attending National 4-H Congress. Graduating with an education degree in 1974, Betty easily transformed into her role as a 4-H Educator on the Morgan County (AL) Team. Thirty years later, she was still in the same office because of the caring people of the community.
Under her guidance, the county averaged 75 clubs with more than 4500 youth enrolled in 4-H, with members earning state and national awards. When Alabama Extension restricted, Betty’s professional role changed as she transitioned into a regional office supervising five counties providing leadership for volunteer training, program planning and regional council work. When Alabama 4-H started planning its 4-H Centennial in 2008, Betty was the right person for the job. She relocated to the State 4-H Office to lead efforts in planning the 4-H Centennial and was responsible for State 4-H Awards and planning citizenship and leadership program. In retirement, Betty continues to be active as a volunteer in her local community, serves on the Alabama 4-H Foundation Board of Directors, and across the state of Alabama.
