Norman Johnson headed the National 4-H Supply Service for 37 years. He managed the 4-H Supply Catalog’ outreach, product availability, sales and distribution to a rapidly growing 4-H club membership. Under his directorship, the 4-H brand was promoted nationally with his astute marketing skills. His selection of products were publicly displayed in virtually every community in the U.S. The catalog, with an expanding line of over 1,600 products, coupled with his partnerships with local extension agents and federal and 4-H Committee/Foundation/Council staff became extremely important in serving 4-H groups, providing ways to identify local activities and publicize 4-H throughout the country.
Under Johnson’ management, the catalog became a pioneer among non-profit organizations. In 1986 educational materials were added, allowing extension staff, volunteers and members to find all products in one place. He was named National 4-H Council Vice President of Business Services in 1987. Grant Shrum, former National 4-H Council CEO, says: ” is credited with getting 4-H advertised locally, nationally and globally; his contribution was the skillful manner in which he promoted the program and publicized 4-H members, leaders, agents, and donors. The impact of Norm’ work was felt and deeply appreciated at the local level as it gave people the chance to publicly identify their projects with the national 4-H movement”
