Carl Smith

    Milwaukee County 4-H Youth Development Agent and Past President of NAE4-HA

    Waukesha, WI

    As Milwaukee County 4-H Youth Development Agent. Carl provided leadership to one of the largest 4-H Urban programs in the country with local partners. He supervised five part-time 4-H staff assistants and motivated many 4-H youth and volunteers. He was on the NAE4HA Board for 12 years, including the office of President in 1969. He was Program chair for the 1968 NAE4-HA Conference in Michigan. Carl served on the WAE4-HYDP Board for 13 years, including as President and Secretary. He was on the committee that created the Department of Youth Development and served as Department Chair for 3 years. Carl spent 5 years as office chair of Milwaukee County – University of Wisconsin Extension with a staff of 68. 

    While retired, Carl continues his involvement with 4-H. He’s attended two NAE4-HA conferences, including service to the 2006 NAE4-HA Conference in Milwaukee. He judges about 12 fairs each year and has been a 4-H photography volunteer for 3 years. A Kiwanis Club member for 34 years, Carl’s held leadership positions that include president, secretary, board member, committee chair and Lt. Governor for the Wisconsin-Upper Michigan District. Carl is active in his church, American Cancer Society Relay for Life and Toastmasters International and is a member of the prostate cancer support group at Froedtert Hospital.

    Quote

    4-H has played a major role in my life for the past 55 years. My first 4-H experience was a a volunteer 4-H Leader in Dane Co., Oregon, WI. Then I spent 35 years as a 4-H and Youth Agent in Columbia and Milwaukee Counties. For the past 53 years I have been judging 4-H exhibits at county, district and state fairs.

    It is an honor to represent Wisconsin in this year’s National 4-H Hall of Fame. I share this award with my family, colleagues, and my friends. I am truly blessed.

    My 4-H Story