I feel very honored to have been selected for the 4-H National Hall of Fame. As I reflect on my life, I realize that the wonderful experiences I received early in my life through the 4-H program taught me the value of setting goals and making good things happen.
I was raised in Savery, Wyoming. The 4-H program provided a strong basis for my education in agriculture, home economics, parliamentary procedures, public speaking and record keeping. Many service projects taught me the value of improving my world.
When I started a family of my own in Alaska, I wanted my children to enjoy the same experiences that 4-H provided me. When my first child reached eight years of age in 1972, I worked with other parents to establish the 4-H program through the Alaska Cooperative Extension Service.
I co-founded the first Kodiak Rodeo and State Fair Board, which provided 4-H and other community members with opportunities to exhibit and share skills with others. As a Master Gardener and member of the Kodiak Garden Club I worked on civic planting projects for beautification of the city and fairgrounds. I was also involved with the Kodiak Soil and Water Conservation District in establishing two Community Gardens. I took part in the establishment of High Tunnel (greenhouses) program with the Alaska Department of Agriculture. I was recognized as the Agricultural Person of the Year by the Alaska State Farm Bureau in 2019.
As a schoolteacher and counselor, I realized the need for youth involvement in community and personal development. 4-H became the vehicle. I was on the Kodiak 4-H Leaders Council for 46 years. I was project leader for gardening, livestock, and home economics. Our rural home and property became the gathering place for many groups learning how to “Make the Best Better.”
