Vernon was a member of the Go Getters 4-H Club in Greely Co., KS. He devoted 37-years with Nebraska Extension developing, teaching and facilitating youth and adult volunteers to become leaders. His career was in Sarpy and Douglas Counties in the Omaha metro area, with programs including leadership, STEM and citizenship education. He served as 4-H educator and unit leader. In 1977, Vernon attended his first NAE4-HA conference. He later assisted with the first NAE4-HA website. As Chair of Programs Committee, he successfully introduced program task force teams to the current system. Vernon served as the NAE4-HA Treasurer from 1994-1996. Elected president-elect in 1999, he served on a 12-member board to re-evaluate the Board’ structure.
Vernon’ presidency launched the new Board structure, which still exists today. Vernon’ tenure strengthened partnerships with National 4-H Council and 4-H Headquarters. He served on USDA 4-H Headquarters’ 4-H Name and Emblem Working Group. He gave leadership as JCEP Liaison for Galaxy in 2003. In 2011, Vernon served as a tri-chair for the NAE4-HA Conference in Omaha. In retirement he is serving as the executive director for the Douglas/Sarpy Friends of Extension & 4-H Foundation. He was on the team that created the foundation in 2003. He co-developed “Boardsmanship” curriculum for non-profit groups and he serves on the Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards. Vernon continues to serve 4-H and extension.
