Joyce’s decades of 4-H volunteer service began in 1959 when she came to the county as a new bride and agreed to lead a school 4-H sewing club. Most recently, she has served on the Planning Committee for three statewide Volunteer Leadership Forums. Joyce volunteers for a variety of Extension programs including Farm/Home/City Day, Fair Board, Beef Cattle Day, Harrison County Extension Council and Extension District Board. She was instrumental in the development of the Kentucky 4-H Leadership Center, serving on the planning committee and personally raising nearly $50,000. Joyce has been a role model for countless youth, educators and Extension professionals. Joyce has personally mentored new agents as well as new teachers working in her school building. She believes that people will get involved when asked and given responsibility.
When president of the county, area, and state 4-H councils, Joyce led their reorganizations. She has presented workshops on the 4-H Council system and helped other organizations to function more effectively. She explained the Council system and adult volunteerism to a delegation from Poland that was visiting the University. Joyce served on the first Extension District Board that was responsible for planning an dconstruction of a new Extension office. Joyce often serves on strategic planning committees and works with state legislators to promote 4-H and Extension programs. She chaired the national 4-H Strategic Directions Team, formed in 1995. In 2002, she chaired the biennial Kentucky 4-H Volunteer Forum recognition committee that recognized 108 volunteers for their contributions to 4-H members and the Kentucky 4-H program.
