Dr. Joe Hughes began his career in 1971 as the first full time 4-H Youth Livestock Specialist at Oklahoma State University. For many years he defined the essence of the best mix of subject matter expertise and positive youth development, and he became the model that others aspired to match. His entire career focused on helping young people develop into responsible, caring citizens with leadership potential. He was one of the earliest in the country to encourage ethical practices, sportsmanship, and quality care for youth livestock project animals. Dr. Hughes made it clear that the animal was an important means through which positive youth development and leadership could be developed.
Joe was recognized for creating innovative programs, such as the expansion of meat science education programs; the creation of youth livestock achievement awards; collaboration with 4-H and FFA leadership to develop ethical treatment and sportsmanship programs for youth exhibitors; and the “Big Three” animal science field days. He worked with university colleagues and the industry to develop a three day series of educational and competitive events for beef, sheep and swine projects that became one of the largest youth livestock educational events in the country. Joe was instrumental in the development of the National Show-ring Code of Ethics, which was adopted by the North American Livestock Show and Rodeo Managers Association. 
