Ms. Stella Jones retired as a state 4-H Specialist on December 31, 1967 after 43 years of service. Her 4-H career actually began in 1912 when she joined the 4-H Corn Project, Pig Project, and Tomato Project. She became a Vernon Parish Home Demonstration agent in 1925. In 1934 she transferred to Tangipahoa Parish completely devoted to 4-H. In each parish she increased enrollment, started parish short course which today is the Achievement Day program, and developed relationships with parish clientele to support the 4-H program.
As an agent in 1925, it was obvious improved practices and methods were being taught to 4-H members as the main objective. Ms. Jones, however, always followed the principal that the ultimate goal was to develop a fine boy or girl through 4-H. In 1961 she transferred to the state 4-H office, where her total responsibility was 4-H on a statewide basis. She worked with records, demonstrations, high school programs, state and parish fairs, and enrollment.
Major 4-H Projects & Efforts
Ms. Jones major projects as a 4-H member were poultry, tomato club, and corn club. Served on state 4-H staff and was a national leader in 4-H records.
Significant Honors:
Gamma Sigma Delta Award of Merit in Cooperative Extension Service for her work in 4-H. In 1967 Ms. Jones prepared 4-H members and agents for national records competition in which Louisiana won 16 national contests in Chicago, the largest number won by any state that year and the largest number ever won by Louisiana.
