Norman C. Mindrum was born in Rushford, Minnesota and graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1942 with a B.S. in Agriculture. He earned his Master’ Degree in Education at the University of Maryland. His involvement with 4-H spans 35 years including positions at the county, state, and national levels. Mindrum was Executive Director of National 4-H Service Committee (1953-1958) and National 4-H Foundation (1958-1977). He led the merger of these two organizations to create National 4-H Council in 1977. He retired from his position as CEO and president of National 4-H Council in 1982. Norman C. Mindrum passed away at the age of 77 on June 6, 1995, in Illinois.
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“Norm Mindrum was a man with great vision and wisdom who continued to serve as my mentor to the very end,” said Dick Sauer, former President and CEO, National 4-H Council. “He encouraged Council to continue to evaluate its focus and to change to increase its value to youth, in partnership with the Cooperative Extension System, for the 21st century.”
Kathleen Flom, a long-time co-worker and personal friend, said, “He had the foresight to see that the real-life experiences in 4-H had a definite place within the total arena of youth education worldwide.” She remembered his “good humor and enthusiasm provided optimism to bring 4-H through the most difficult situation.”
My 4-H Story
Mindrum and Blaine J. Yarington, president of American Oil Co. and National 4-H Service Committee, mark 50 years of the Committee and 4-H Congress, 1972.
Mr. Guy L. Noble with Norman C. Mindrum, elected as the new director of the National Committee on Boys and Girls Club Work,
May 1, 1958
Honors & Activities
National Partner-in-4-H Award: For his contribution, leadership, and support of 4-H over many years.
his effective leadership in securing private and public support for 4-H.
his encouragement and expertise in organizing the National 4-H Council. his continuing personal involvement and commitment to 4-H.
President, National 4-H Council, 1977-1982.
Executive Vice President, National 4-H Council, Washington, D.C., 1977-1979.
Merged National 4-H Service Committee and National 4-H Foundation into National 4-H Council, 1977.
Director, National 4-H Service Committee, Washington, D.C., 1958-1977.
Elected Director of the National Committee on Boys and Girls Club Work, 1958.
Executive Director, National 4-H Foundation, Washington, D.C., 1953-1958. Assistant State 4-H Leader, Minnesota, 1950.
County Extension Agent, Winona County, MN. Vocational Agricultural Instructor, Winona, Lewiston, and Plummer, MN.
