Duane Johnson

    Oregon
    2007

    Professor Emeritus, Extension Agent, State Specialist and State 4-H Program Leader

    Corvallis, Oregon

    Duane grew up in Iowa and was a 4-H member for 13 years. He joined the Oregon 4-H program the week after his graduation from Iowa State University in 1959 and worked for 4-H until his retirement in 1999. During his career, he served as a county 4-H agent, state specialist and State 4-H Program Leader. Duane provided leadership for curriculum development in Animal Science and Horticulture and helped author/co-author over 125 publications used in Oregon. He was instrumental in establishing state 4-H Development Committees to advise and guide the 4-H program and implemented the first Community Coordinator program utilizing volunteers in middle management roles.

    As an ex-officio member of the Oregon 4-H Foundation, Duane guided them to focus on fund development. Duane worked with and chaired the National 4-H Japanese Exchange Committee, National 4-H Congress and the National 4-H Recognition Committee. He helped to reactivate the Gamma Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP) and is presently serving as national ESP President-elect. He was an ESP representative on the arrangements committee for the first Extension Galaxy Conference. He was Recognition Program Chair for NAE4-HA for three years, and as State 4-H Program Leader supported hosting the 1983 NAE4-HA Conference in Portland.

    Quote

    I am pleased to have the opportunity to make a small contribution to one of the most effective youth and adult development programs in the United States. Through 4-H, we create an environment for the personal development of youth and adults involving leadership, citizenship, communication skills, exciting skill learning and critical relationships. During my 41 years of professional leadership and 13 years as a 4-H member I have been blessed with having the opportunity to work with many of the best Extension professionals, volunteers, youth and donors. Their dedicated leadership and commitment to quality have had a profound impact on the quality of life of individuals, families and communities. It has been a privilege and honor.

    My 4-H Story