Walter C. Abbott contributed 52 years to the Louisiana 4-H program and served as the State 4-H Leader from 1919-49. He implemented the organization for standard 4-H Clubs for both boys and girls, helped develop the Junior Livestock Shows, organized the concepts of parish Achievements Days, oversaw the building of the state 4-H camp at Camp Grant Walker and organized the first Junior Leadership, wildlife and forestry camps. He also developed a self-financing program for educational trips that ensured trips for contest winners even during the Depression years. W.C. Abbott served on many regional and national committees and continued to serve as a 4-H volunteer after his retirement. A man of many firsts in Louisiana 4-H, Abbott became known as “Mr. 4-H.” He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2006.

Carroll Adams started his 4-H career in 1973 and served 4-H for 34 years. He attended 4-H Camp every year and spent much of his time serving as a judge for various contests, including pet shows and the Chick-N-Que Contest. He was the St. John Parish garden project leader, teaching 4-H members to grow healthy plants that they would sell to the community to raise money for their 4-H Club or to help send a child to camp. Carroll Adams was a role model to many black men and donated his time not only on the parish level but also on the regional and state levels.

Josephine Cashio André was an honored educator for 25 years who accepted the responsibility of 4-H Club Leader throughout her career. She led her members and officers through leadership training and personal guidance that helped prepare them to become successful, active members of the community today.

John D. Andrews, a county agent with more than 30 years of service, provided minority youth the opportunities to learn valuable life skills as responsible adults and future leaders in their communities. He was especially noted for giving extra help to his 4-H'ers so they could expererience the satisfaction of completing tasks and the achievement of winning.   

Dr. Jack Bagent, retired vice chancellor of the LSU AgCenter and director of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, became involved in 4-H as a young boy in elementary school. He credits 4-H with giving him educational and travel opportunities that were otherwise unavailable to him in his rural environment. In 1964 he became entomology specialist for the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, and in 1973 he became a division leader. He became director in 1995 and served for six years. During his 37-year career with the Extension Service, Dr. Bagent made major contributions to 4-H at the local, state and national levels. He also earned a reputation as an expert entomologist and a caring leader. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2002.

Joseph L. Baronet
Acadia Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Joseph L. Baronet, a 4-H alumnus, was a livestock leader for more than 43 years and was instrumental in organizing the first annual livestock sale in 1968. He was a key figure in securing support for the Acadia Parish multipurpose facility and extension office.

Crawford Alexander Bishop joined the 4-H Club at the age of 10 and, as an adult, was dedicated to the livestock project because it taught responsibility. He made sure that any child who wanted to participate had the opportunity to do so. He chaired the Livestock Sales Committee for more than 20 years. He received numerous awards and was instrumental in establishing the Acadiana Livestock Show.

Joanne Bolding, who has 42 years of involvement with 4-H, was first introduced to 4-H when her county agent asked her dad to let her show sheep. She became an avid 4-H'er, showing winning animals at state contests. From 1970-1990, she was the volunteer organizational club leader at Forest High School and every year assisted 25-30 club members with a wide variety of projects. She chaperoned numerous events, conducted workshops at her home and conducted sewing contests. Her 4-H'ers developed numerous winning livestock and fair exhibits and won many state contests and trips. One year, Bolding traveled over 5,000 miles in her cars as a 4-H volunteer. She has served on the 4-H Foundation Board and 4-H Advisory Leadership Council. She has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Award and 4-H Good Provider Leader Award.

Mark Bonner, a former chairman of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees and long-time supporter and sponsor of 4-H, was executive vice president and general manager of the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Through Bonner’s leadership, this association supported the 4-H Electric Program for more than 36 years. He received numerous honors including the Citation for Outstanding Service to 4-H and the State 4-H Alumni Award. A special scholarship was established in the Louisiana 4-H Foundation to honor Bonner for his many years of leadership and sponsorship of extension and 4-H programs.

Carroll Boudreaux serves as president of the Iberia Parish 4-H Foundation and was a board member of the state 4-H Foundation. He has helped obtain endowed funds for scholarships, awards and numerous events and activities. He has worked as a 4-H livestock volunteer, conducts educational clinics and hosts livestock shows.

A.J. Brackin, a former 4-H agent in Lafayette Parish, helped establish the first Junior Leadership program, empowering older 4-H members as project leaders. After retiring, Brackin continued to support 4-H and helped establish the Lafayette Parish 4-H Foundation. Outstanding record book winners are recognized with an award named in his honor.

Harriet Bridges is a retired 4-H agent with more than 30 years of service. Her work with the Louisiana State Cotton Museum continues to educate youth about the importance of agriculture.

Emma Broussard credits 4-H for what she has achieved in life. She became a 4-H member in 1949 and remains active with the organization. She serves as a judge for various parish events and has been a 4-H camp counselor.

Beverly Bruce was an extension home economist and later a member of the Louisiana Legislature, where she championed the 4-H character education programs. She was instrumental in establishing 4-H Day at the Capitol, which was held for the 6th year in 2008.

Brenda Bulot has been a 4-H leader for 15 years. She has also served on the Plaquemines Parish Advisory Committee, assisted 4-H agents with 4-H camp and 4-H University for 10 years and provided invaluable service to the Plaquemines Parish 4-H program.

William Thomas "W. T." Burton
(deceased)
Calcasieu Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

William Thomas Burton's contributions to Calcasieu Parish 4-H were enormous and considered visionary for his time. Known as "W. T.," Burton's philanthropy supported many youth programs, and the 4-H program was one of them. He played a vital role in establishing the first livestock show and sale in southwest Louisiana. He donated a parcel of land south of Lake Charles to build a facility to hold livestock shows. His leadership helped pave the way for Burton Coliseum, which is named after him.

Carroll Charpentier has been a leader throughout 60 years of involvement with 4-H and a firm believer in what 4-H means in developing youth to the best of their ability. He serves on the advisory committee with an emphasis on poultry at the state level. He is recognized as a poultry expert. He and his family have won many poultry awards over the years.

Kathy Colson has been a 4-H volunteer for more than 20 years, engaging youth in dairy projects and contests and teaching school children that milk comes from cows.

Kermit Coulon served as a 4-H agent, a county agent and the district agent for the Cane Belt Area for many years before retiring. While he was district agent, he had one of the best-attended area 4-H Junior Leadership Conferences in the state. Coulon believes 4-H livestock projects are one of the best ways to get young people to learn and grow to develop leadership potential. Although retired, he still volunteers to assist with 4-H activities and shows.

Austin J. Daniel
West Feliciana Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Austin J. Daniel gained many experiences as a member of the 4-H program. As sheriff, he supports the 4-H program to benefit families in his parish. He provides departmental resources during the Junior Livestock Show and supports 4-H members financially through the sale of livestock animals conducted by the Livestock Club.

Beth Dawson has been involved in 4-H for 37 years. She has served as a 4-H Club leader, project leader, extension adviser and foundation trustee, as well as a community leader. She is a member of the East Feliciana 4-H Foundation Board of Directors and has served terms on both the parish 4-H and the overall Extension Advisory Leadership councils. Dawson continues to influence youth today as a volunteer and project leader. She serves on the Parish Advisory Leadership Council and 4-H Foundation.

Charles Dill Sr. was a volunteer leader for more than 30 years in Vermilion Parish. He was a charter member of the Vermilion Parish 4-H Foundation and helped the foundation reach its $100,000 goal. He also served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board. Because Dill understood the importance of developing public speaking skills in youth, he established the Vermilion 4-H Cooperative Speech Contest. He securred donors to sponsor a steak banquet for contestants and their families for 15 years. This program was so successful that Dill was invited to serve as a judge for the state speech contest during Short Course. As chairman of the Extension Building Committee, which began in 1977, Dill promoted the Vermilion Extension Service and generated community support for a parishwide tax to build the Vermilion Extension office and Junior Livestock Show facility. Through his leadership, vision and genuine interest in youth, Charles E. Dill Sr. truly helped establish the Vermilion 4-H program.

Albert Doughty started his 4-H involvement in the fourth grade and, as an adult, worked for the LSU AgCenter for 33 years. He was county agent and parish chair. He is currently mayor of Benton, La.

Diana Duhe became known as "the 4-H Lady" of St. John Parish during her 25 years as a 4-H leader. From 1981-2006, she inspired, guided and trained more than 6,500 youth, teaching them important life skills and the value of hard work. Each year, she would transform her home into a 4-H classroom. It was not uncommon to find 20 or more 4-H'ers at her home at different times every month as she taught them vegetable gardening, public speaking, lawn tractor driving, soil studies and even sheep shearing. She attended every parish 4-H program or activity and chaperoned youth at Short Course/4-H University, the annual Jr. Leadership Awards trip and 4-H Camp. Her 4-H youth often won state awards, as did the 4-H Club leaders she helped recruit and train. Each year she also led the St. John 4-H/St. Jude Wheels for Life Bike-A-Thon, raising thousands of dollars for cancer research for children. Diana Duhe also served as 4-H Junior Leader coordinator, Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board secretary/treasurer and 4-H Club organizational leader coordinator.

Sheila Farmer has been an avid and enthusiastic 4-H volunteer for 22 years, chaperoning, planning workshops, organizing meetings and helping at Achievement Day. Her dedication has changed the lives of many youth.

George Fawcett became involved with 4-H as a business recruiter representing the SLEMCO utility for the parish livestock show and sale. His work yielded thousands of dollars worth of advertisements. His continuing love for the lamb project and youth is obvious as he provides the less fortunate with opportunities to participate in 4-H.

Elvadus Fields, a retired extension agent with 44 years of service, collaborated with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture Loan Program for youth livestock projects in northeast Louisiana. His leadership involvement includes the Louisiana Black Farmers and Landowners Association and Delta Livestock Enterprise.

After beginning his career as a 4-H agent, Dr. Bobby Fletcher Sr. was instrumental in getting a livestock show facility built in St. Tammany Parish. He later served as a district agent in the southeast area of the state. Dr. Fletcher also served on the Southeast District Livestock Show Committee and on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board. He was honored with the St. Tammany fairground facility being named the Bobby Fletcher Agricultural Center.

Randall Fletcher serves on the Grant Parish 4-H Foundation and is active in his community. His high standards and insights have been an inspiration to the 4-H staff, youth and adults involved in the Grant Parish 4-H program.

Charles Lesley “C. L.” Flowers of East Baton Rouge Parish served as an extension agent, advocate, volunteer, benefactor, and advisor to the 4-H program for 62 years from 1937-1999. He began working with 4-H'ers in DeSoto Parish in 1937, specializing in the livestock project and bringing that parish's first entries to the LSU State Livestock Show. During the next 12 years, he worked in Claiborne Parish and West Feliciana Parish as county agent. He transferred to East Baton Rouge Parish in 1952 where he served both youth and adults as county agent and parish chair until his retirement in 1972. Tirelessly, he gave time and energy, both personal and professional, to touch the lives of as many children as he could. Mr. Flowers was especially dedicated to the livestock project and traveled by train all over the country with 4-H youth and their families for them to participate in livestock shows. He would sometimes ride in the rail cars with the animals to make sure they had proper care. Inner city children learned about livestock from Mr. Flowers, who donated animals to them for showing at parish, district and state shows. After retiring, Mr. Flowers continued to be involved with the 4-H program, volunteering to help at livestock shows, state contests and parish achievement days. In 1984, Mr. Flowers and his wife donated $10,000 to the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He remained supportive of the 4-H program until he passed away in 1999.

Sharon Fontenot retired from the LSU AgCenter after working with 4-H for 32 years. She remains an active volunteer, serving as 4-H University coach, 4-H Advisory Committee member and event judge.

Virgie Foreman has been an outstanding volunteer for more than 50 years. She was a charter member of the Vermilion 4-H Foundation and served as its adviser. Her contributions helped establish scholarships for students majoring in agriculture or home economics.

Linda Lee Franks has had a love of 4-H for more than 50 years, volunteering for three generations of youths. Even though fully employed as a tax preparer and bookkeeper, Franks always finds time to assist with 4-H programs that help youth to develop the qualities necessary to be successful.

William Freshwater was the Moreauville High School principal in 1908, where the first Corn Club for boys was started. Originally from Illinois, Freshwater came to Louisiana in 1902 and is credited with bringing the 4-H concept to Louisiana from his home state. The success of the Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as the 4-H Club.

Charles A. Fuselier is a 4-H alumnus and active supporter of the 4-H program. During his career as sheriff, he seldom encountered a former or current 4-H member in trouble. A parish scholarship was developed in his honor in 2002.

Conrad Gauthier
(deceased)
St. Martin Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Conrad Gauthier was one of the most influential 4-H agents in St. Martin Parish during his 25-year career. A scholarship fund, which has benefitted 98 4-H members, was established in 1977 to recognize his accomplishments.

Wayne Gilmore has been an avid 4-H supporter since 1982, when he helped establish the parish 4-H Foundation; he served as chairman for 25 years. He helped fund numerous 4-H programs and has served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation board. He also works with livestock and woodworking projects.

John C. Guidry was a 4-H volunteer for more than 45 years. His work was often behind-the-scenes as he worked with businesses to support youth by purchasing animals at livestock shows.

Loretta Guidry of Lafourche Parish was a teacher and 4-H Club leader at Larose-Cut Off Junior High School for 30 years. Her enthusiasm and guidance inspired many of her club members to win state and national contests. Her club won at Achievement Day in its division 15 years in a row. Mrs. Guidry was a Blue Ribbon winner in the State Adult Leader Records Contest multiple times and also received the Good Provider Award. Additionally, she served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees. Loretta Guidry is regarded as an ideal role model of all 4-H leaders. She retired in 1993 and now devotes her time to helping her grandchildren with 4-H record books, contests and activities.

Bernie Hambrice was a teacher and 4-H leader in St. Bernard Parish for 25 years. She could inspire more than 200 fourth- and fifth-graders to participate in her school's 4-H Clubs. Although retired, she still returns to volunteer and bring smiles to many children’s faces.

Rick Hargis and his family established the Grand Champion Jersey Cow Award at the LSU Spring Livestock Show in 1995 in memory of his son Chad, and they have sponsored the award since then. He has been chairman of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation and actively involved in the Natchitoches Parish 4-H Foundation since it was created, serving as vice president and treasurer. He also was instrumental in providing funds to build a 4-H exhibit building and livestock facility in Natchitoches Parish.

Gary Hebert was a 4-H member in the 1940s and held every club office possible. An avid writer, he honed his skills through reading everything that the Extension Service published about writing. He and his wife began a weekly newspaper in 1957, which provided extensive coverage of 4-H news. Gary Hebert won the 4-H Alumni Recognition Award in 1961.

Laverne Hightower has been a volunteer for 24 years. She has conducted record book workshops, served on the State 4-H Advisory Council and was a delegate to Washington, D.C., for the Louisiana 4-H Volunteer Ambassador Program. She was a charter member and treasurer of the Claiborne 4-H Foundation.

Lan Hoang is the first Asian-American 4-H leader in Orleans Parish. She has added diversity to the existing 4-H program, inspiring Asian-American youth and many others to participate in the 4-H. Ms. Hoang is president of the Orleans 4-H Foundation and serves on the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Robert Hoffpauir, a former 4-H agent in Jefferson Davis Parish, was a leading force in developing the first parish livestock show. He established a recognition program for outstanding 4-H Clubs that continues today.

Melvin “Kip” Holden, Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish, began his leadership development in 4-H and since has risen to become a nationally recognized leader and public servant. He has participated in the 4-H program as a club member, volunteer, benefactor and advocate for more than 40 years. He has served as a member of the Baton Rouge Metro Council and as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives and Senate. While he was on the council and as a legislator, he was extensively involved with the Southern University Livestock show for more than 15 years, raising funds and purchasing livestock. During his term as senator, he awarded a mini-grant to the East Feliciana 4-H program to support school enrichment promoting science. He also served on the 4-H Advisory Council in East Feliciana Parish. Mayor-President Holden has increased funding to the East Baton Rouge Cooperative Extension office to expand programming efforts and supports funding for a new extension office building. He also supports the LSU AgCenter's "Smart Bodies" and "Smart Choices" programs in East Baton Rouge Parish and promotes the programs to others. After Hurricane Katrina, Mayor-Presdient Holden was recognized nationally for his leadership and management of the city-parish that hosted more than 200,000 evacuees, many of them 4-H'ers and their families. Under his direction, the parish Homeland Security Office received national accreditation for meeting the nation's highest standards. He has been inducted into the LSU Alumni Hall of Fame and the LSU Manship School of Communications Hall of Fame and earned other accolades on a local, state and national level.

As a youth in 1912, Stella Jones was involved in the various agricultural and domestic clubs that became known later as 4-H. As an adult, she dedicated 43 years of service to the 4-H program from 1925-67. From 1961-67, she worked at the state 4-H office on records, demonstrations, parish fairs and developing enrollment and new programs. She was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2005.

Donna Beth Karl has been involved with 4-H for 15 years and has volunteered on both the parish and district levels. She is the president of the St. Helena 4-H Educational Foundation, secretary of the Livestock Advisory Committee and leader of the Rolling Hills 4-H Community Club. She began St. Helena’s first poultry club and has served on the Parish Advisory Committee and the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Ann Keene, who has 31 years of volunteer service to 4-H, is a 4-H Foundation past chair. She has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Award, 4-H Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award and State Fair of Louisiana Volunteer Leader of the Year award.

Kate Kilpatrick dedicated more than 50 years of her life to the 4-H program. Her work and leadership led to a parish 4-H Leader Award, which is presented annually in her memory.

Over the past 20 years, Rena Labat has served in a variety of roles in the 4-H program. She is currently serving on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and the Louisiana 4-H Camp Grant Walker Educational Center Advisory Board and is a coordinator for the 4-H University Fashion Revue Ready-to-Wear Contest. On the regional level, she conducts clothing-construction workshops and assists with the Area 4 Commodity Cookery Contest. Labat serves on the Terrebonne 4-H Advisory Council and works with the parish VFC group to provide scholarships and awards for the parish program.

Dalton Landry began his 4-H career in 1955. He became the county agent of Lafourche Parish in 1973 and trained many of the agents who have made the parish successful in 4-H. He established the Sugar and Seafood contest, was manager of the Lafourche Parish Fair Association and was president of the Lafourche 4-H Foundation Board. Since his retirement, he has assisted in training 4-H University contestants and judges parish 4-H contests.

Elliot E. Letlow was a 4-H agent and county agent with 38 years of service beginning in 1951. His accomplishments include working with the Junior Leaders Club and gardening contests and providing peaches for many educational demonstrations.

Lou Ella Lognion started her work with 4-H as a volunteer and a supportive mother and grandmother. She was an organizational club leader at Port Barre High School. Her interests were clothing, food and nutrition.

Mable Yvonne Lorenz of Beauregard Parish has been a 4-H leader for 48 years. She has held summer workshops for 4-H’ers at her home, teaching sewing, cooking and handicraft projects and helping youth work on their 4-H record books. She often gave 4-H'ers a ride to meetings throughout Beauregard Parish and assisted at meetings with whatever needed to be done. As a school bus driver for 15 years (1973-1988), Lorenz volunteered her time and fuel to transport 4-H’ers to the annual Beauregard Parish 4-H Achievement Day, where she also served as a judge for contests. For 30 years, she also transported hundreds of 4-H projects to the annual parish fair, helped prepare and sell hamburgers at the 4-H Junior Leader food booth or worked in other 4-H booths. She served as the leader for the Beauregard Parish Junior Leaders Club from 1978-85 and has hosted 4-H exchange students from South Carolina and Kansas. She continues to volunteer at 4-H events and is known for saying "Tell me when and where, and I'll be there to help."

John Lowe was a 4-H agent and parish chair who spent countless hours mentoring 4-H youth and their families. He serves on the Ark-La-Tex Agricultural Council, Caddo Parish Farm Bureau and State Fair of Louisiana board of directors and remains active in 4-H events and contest judging.

Nancy W. Marceaux of Vermilion Parish has served as an organizational leader at Kaplan High School for 30 years. For years, Marceaux and her active club hosted two major annual 4-H events, Demonstration Day and Achievement Day. Under her guidance, many Vermilion Parish delegates to Short Course/4-H University were her club members. She often held parishwide workshops to assist not only her 4-H'ers but also those from other clubs. She was named State 4-H Alumni winner in 1999. She has been an active member in the parish 4-H Advisory Committee, serving as chairman for five years. All four of her children were active in 4-H and are now serving as adult volunteers.

Marleen Mayfield of St. Bernard Parish has immersed herself in the parish 4-H program since 2003 as a club leader, advisory committee member, and summer 4-H camp volunteer locally and at the state 4-H camp. She assists youth with project work, service projects and leadership training. She also conducts recruiting and training for other adult leaders. Mayfield helped coordinate the 4-H after-school program at Andrew Jackson Elementary and organized one of the first 4-H clubs to return to St. Bernard after Hurricane Katrina. She received a Toyota Prius after Hurricane Katrina from Phoenix Suns basketball player Amar’e Stoudemire and was recognized with a Gold 4-H Club Award in 2003, 2004 and 2005. This award has not been given since Hurricane Katrina.

Joan McCrory touched the lives of many 4-H’ers throughout Louisiana from when she began her career as a 4-H agent in 1969 until her retirement in 2005 as a professor in the LSU AgCenter’s Department of 4-H Youth Development. She developed publications and guidelines for several significant Louisiana 4-H programs and was continually committed to fostering life skills in youth. She continues to volunteer with the 4-H program and was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2007.

Dr. Charles Miller started his involvement in 4-H as a member in the 1930s. His career as a 4-H agent began in 1948, and he retired in 1993. He remains an avid 4-H supporter.

Lina Ruth Miller has served as a 4-H volunteer for more than 40 years. Her roles have ranged from organizational club leader, advisory committee member and parish junior leader to judge for various 4-H events. She has received the 4-H Alumni Award and was instrumental in establishing a parish scholarship for 4-H club members.

B.U. Miller worked with students in the 4-H livestock program. He served on the 4-H advisory board and also worked with the fundraising committee for the livestock project. He often would cover the cost of the project for youth unable to afford the expenses. He always said he was rewarded beyond his dreams through the accomplishments of his children and the youth he worked with through 4-H.

Jean Mitchell has served as a 4-H organizational leader and volunteer, touching the lives of many youths. She instilled a tradition of 4-H that increased enrollment and participation in 4-H in her parish. In encouraging youth, she always provides them with experiences that are fun and educational and emphasize demonstration skills.

Michelle Mitchell is often referred to as the “4-H Mom” by youth in the Vernon Parish program. She was an active 4-H participant as a child and continues to be an active supporter of the program. She has served in numerous roles from teen organizational leader and coach of 4-H University to state 4-H Day at the Capitol committee member. One of her most noteworthy projects is her work in a hurricane relief service project that gained statewide recognition.

Louis Mouch Jr. served over 60 years with West Baton Rouge 4-H. He is the Fair Board president and assists the planning and running of the West Baton Rouge Fair and rodeo each year.

Dr. C.J. Naquin dedicated his career to the 4-H program and served as the first Louisiana 4-H Foundation director. He was promoted to the State 4-H office with the responsibilities of the 4-H leadership program. He developed parish Junior Leader Clubs throughout the state and was responsible for naming a Louisiana room at the National 4-H Center. He started the first LABO exchange program and organized a 4-H camp for disabled youth at Camp Grant Walker. Dr. Naquin also served on several regional and national committees. In 2008, he was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.

Nancy Nettles has been involved with 4-H for 42 years. She has received the State Alumni Award, the Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award, the Outstanding Leadership Award and has served on the 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees.

Billy B. Nutt of Bienville Parish began his career in extension in 1966 in Lake Providence as an associate county agent. He successfully instilled in many youth a sense of responsibility through the livestock project, carefully guiding the youth to care for their animals, groom them and get ready to show them. He transferred to Lincoln Parish and in 1972 he moved his family to Bienville Parish as county agent and parish chair. He received numerous awards, including the LCES Program of Excellence Award, the 4-H Team Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Now retired, he assists in garden contests and beautification activities at his church, library and the courthouse.

Clara O’Sullivan was a 4-H leader at elementary schools in Jefferson Parish. She served as a teacher representative on the Jefferson 4-H Foundation Board and on the Jefferson 4-H Advisory Council. She had the highest number of youth who stayed in 4-H beyond elementary school. She has received numerous awards from the Jefferson Parish 4-H Foundation.

Maxine Olinde was a 4-H agent who implemented a variety of programs on home economics, community development and leadership development. She is a National Association of Extension Home Economists lifetime member and was rewarded with their Distinguished Service Award. She was also recognized by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with the Home Economics Alumni Award in recognition of her contribution to 4-H Club work and service to other programs.

Adella Paul has provided enthusiasm as a volunteer for more than 700 4-H students. She said what she is most proud of is that she had a part in developing so many youth at an early age and seeing them become successful leaders in their communities. Many feel that she exemplifies the 4-H pillars of character and is a true leader.

Durell Peloquin, Sr. was an active supporter of the Allen Parish 4-H program and was president of the Allen Parish Fair Association. He also served on the Southwest District Show Committee and the scholarship committee.

Carolyn Reber Phillips served as a home economist/4-H agent for 30 years. She was instrumental in the development of the Winn Parish 4-H Woodsman’s Skills Competition as a youth event in conjunction with the Louisiana Forest Festival. She serves on the Winn Parish Advisory Committee and judges 4-H activities.

Mary Poe promotes 4-H through the air waves and Web page of The Radio Center where she is employed as public service director. She serves on the Lincoln Parish Advisory Council and volunteers as a judge for contests.

Joe Don Powell, a former county agent, devoted 30 years to educational programs on entomology, livestock, plant science and wildlife. With integrity, tirelessness and humor, he encouraged his 4-H’ers to work, to take chances and to discover and believe in their abilities. He was a mentor to new 4-H agents and brought together community leaders, 4-H parents and politicians to organize the Red River Livestock Club, an organization that supports local 4-H projects.

Bill Querrey has been a 4-H volunteer for 40 years. As the past president of the parish Farm Bureau and member of Louisiana Angus Association, he supported youth through field days and district and regional livestock shows.

Cecil Ramagos Sr. became involved in 4-H at the age of nine and remained active long after high school. He volunteered his time, money, energy and expertise to help any 4-H’er in need for more than 30 years. His tireless efforts helped elevate the Iberville 4-H livestock project to one of the highest-quality programs in the state.

Willard Rambo was the state senator responsible for legislation that appropriated $75,000 to build Camp Jesse Harrison in Grant Parish for 4-H’ers in the 1950s.

Catherine Richard was a 4-H Leader in St. Charles Parish for 55 years. Her students won numerous state and blue ribbon awards at 4-H Short Course at LSU. She served as a chaperone for the Jr. Leaders Camp and for the district wildlife trip.

Enaux Rivere
Assumption Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Enaux Rivere began his 4-H career as a 4-H’er in 1959 and continues to volunteer and support today. He is a livestock project leader who raised pigs and sold them at low cost or gave them to 4-H members so they would learn responsibility while participating the the livestock project. He also has a herd of dairy cows that he guides 4-H'ers to care for and show at no cost to them. He attends all the livestock shows to demonstrate support to the youth he helps and has traveled to Memphis, Tenn., to watch youth show their dairy cows. He has served on parish 4-H committees, judged events and is a member of the Assumption 4-H Advisory Committee. Each year, 2,000 youth and adults visit his Dairy Educational Display at Ag Day.

H.P. Roberts, a retired 4-H agent who served from l954 to 1988, influenced the lives of many 4-H’ers and went out of his way to make each one feel important. Terry Dumas, LSU AgCenter animal sciences specialist and former student of Roberts, describes him as a teacher, leader and “one of us” at the same time.

Stephanie Rodrigue was an active 4-H member and volunteer in Lafourche and Cameron parishes. She is the superintendent of the Cameron Parish school system and also serves on the parish 4-H Foundation and 4-H Regional Advisory Committee and as announcer at many 4-H livestock events.

Raphael "Pookie" Rodriguez has been active in community organizations for over 40 years and supports 4-H, volunteering for numerous projects. He was a key figure in establishing the St. Mary Parish Fair Association, which has a strong relationship with the 4-H program. He served on the St. Mary 4-H Advisory Council for eight years and has assisted with 4-H events and activities including cooking, livestock projects, gardening, horticulture projects and more. His involvement with the 4-H program continues as he guides his children and grandchildren in their 4-H work.

Victor Leander Roy Sr., considered Louisiana’s “Father of 4-H,” as superintendent of Avoyelles Parish Schools in 1908 organized the first Boys Corn Club. He collaborated with the local railroad to transport boys to the first meeting held at Moreauville High School. The success of this first Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as 4-H Clubs. In recognition of his work, he became the first state agricultural agent stationed at LSU. He worked with Dr. Seaman A. Knapp and attended the Washington, D.C., conference that led to the creation of the 4-H Club organization. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004.

Patricia Russell, a 4-H volunteer for 21 years, has served on the 4-H Foundation Board and 4-H Advisory Leadership Council. She has trained 4-H University youth in nutrition and entomology projects. Russell has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Recognition Award.

Willie Russell is a former 4-H agent and member of the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association and Louisiana Catfish Association, which provides $300 annually to the area 4-H cookery contest. He received the National County Agents Association Distinguished Service Award.

Clayton "Clay" Matthew Samson served the LSU AgCenter as a trainee, assistant, associate and county agent with 33 years of service. His involvement with 4-H was extensive as he worked with hundreds of 4-H families with livestock projects. He began a “Poultry Chain” project to give youth with limited resources the means to participate in a livestock project. He served on numerous 4-H statewide committees related to camp and livestock shows. He is remembered for his great compassion for youth and their families. 

Among Tom Scott’s many contributions to 4-H was his founding of the Scott Truck and Tractor Scholarship for graduating 4-H members. Annual scholarships have been awarded for the past 19 years. Presently, each parish receives $1,500 for deserving 4-H members.

Virginia Kilpatrick Shehee of Caddo Parish was recognized in 1974 for purchasing the champion market hog at a record price for a special needs youth. The pig provided the youth support to enable him to learn to walk as a result of cerebral palsy. She was later recognized on the national broadcast of Paul Harvey news for her impact on the youth and his compelling story with his pig. She annually contributes more than $20,000 to 4-H youth during the Junior Livestock Sale at the State Fair of Louisiana. She routinely donates to 37 non-profit organizations, including the Louisiana 4-H Foundation.

Jim Shipp has been associated with 4-H for more than 30 years in a variety of assignments, including program sponsor and camp volunteer. He has been active in livestock programs, and he was instrumental in establishing a shooting sports program in the parish, securing national support and funding.

Calvin Stewart Shirley's 33-year career with Louisiana Extension began with work as an agent in Bossier and Caddo parishes from 1943-1955. He held a firm belief that all youth had positive characteristics and was deeply committed to guiding each youth to become a better person through the 4-H program. Shirley became 4-H Department Head in 1955 and served in that capacity for 21 years until his retirement in 1976. During that time, he was instrumental in implementing positive statewide program changes. Shirley continued to work at youth development through his work in church, community and the 4-H program in his home parish of Beauregard.

Mansel S. Slaughter, a volunteer for over 35 years from East Baton Rouge Parish, made significant contributions to the 4-H program with a special interest in the livestock project. He tirelessly volunteered to help youth with the swine and beef projects, served as superintendent of the parish swine show and donated steers to youth who could not have participated in the program without his generosity. He also helped out at Achievement Day and at other 4-H events. Through his assistance with the Louisiana Cattlemen's Association Beef Month program, 4-H youth visited the mayor as an ambassador for the agricultural community. He served on the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H livestock sales committee and the LSU AgCenter’s Agribusiness Council. Posthumously, he continues to give through the Mansel S. Slaughter Memorial Fund through the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H Foundation. While serving in World War II, he received the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, four Battle Stars and the Victory Medal.

Idell Snowden, an extension agent for 34 years, continues to show support to the Natchitoches Parish 4-H youth development program. When she was employed by the LSU AgCenter, she worked closely with African-American youth. Throughout her career she created an atmosphere in the parish 4-H organization that allowed all races to interact comfortably, thus making all youth feel welcome.

Margaret Sorenson began her 4-H career at the age of 10 years old. During her 30-year career as a 4-H Club leader, she received the Leader of the Year Award numerous times and also was awarded the 4-H Alumni Award during Short Course. Margaret also served as an adviser to the State 4-H Fashion Board and was instrumental in starting a 4-H Fashion Board in Livingston Parish in 1995.

John Stamper of Bossier Parish was an avid supporter of 4-H throughout his career as an educator and continued to support Bossier Parish 4-H as a volunteer leader after his retirement.  During his many years as an educator (1956-1984), his 4-H Clubs were always very active and enthusiastic.  After his retirement he remained involved with 4-H as a volunteer leader for the Bossier Parish Outdoor 4-H Club. At the annual National Hunting and Fishing Day at the Bodcau Wildlife Management Area he conducted educational and competitive events on leaf collection, compass and pacing treasure hunts, tree measuring, fire building, outdoor cooking and many other topics. He also planned and conducted the club's overnight campout each year. For Stamper's last year as the Outdoor Club's leader, he invited the group to camp out at his camp.  Mr. Stamper passed away in 1999.

Mattie Rae Strong has supported 4-H for 44 years. She received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Recognition Award and served on the 4-H Advisory Leadership Council.

Lafayette Fearn Swoope Jr. of Calcasieu Parish joined the Cooperative Extension Service in 1957 as an assistant county agent in Caldwell Parish. In 1958 he transferred to East Carroll Parish, then become a county agent in Calcasieu Parish from 1967 until his retirement in 1989. Swoope always saw the value in each child and sought ways to inspire them them to reach their potential through 4-H projects. He encouraged youth to develop resonsibility through the livestock project, served as the Southwest District Livestock Show manager for years and raised 4-H club lambs for 50 years. Swoope recognized the need for 4-H volunteers and formed one of the first parish advisory committees in Louisiana. For 45 years, the Calcasieu Parish advisory committee has conducted successful fundraisers through the World’s Finest Chocolate. Swoope still raises lambs, teaches families about raising them and serves as a volunteer leader in the livestock program.

As an active volunteer for over 40 years, James Templet has made many contributions to 4-H. He was instrumental in establishing the first 4-H Family Day and assisted with 4-H University trainings. Today he serves on the South Central District Livestock Board representing Assumption Parish. He is also a big part of the Assumption 4-H Ag Day, in which he exhibits “Agricultural History” by performing demonstrations with antique farm equipment.

Jimbo Thiels began 4-H work as a child, and as an adult he has made a tremendous impact on the 4-H program at the parish and state levels. He served numerous roles on parish-level committees and as president of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He currently is chairman of the Central District Livestock Show Committee, secures buyers for the the livestock and is the host of the live TV broadcast of the sale of champions.

Denise Turner of Lafayette Parish began volunteering with 4-H when her sons Chad and Cody joined their local 4-H Clubs. She enters data into the enrollment program and pulls and labels hundreds of project books to be delivered to Lafayette 4-H members each year. She received training in the Louisiana 4-H Sportsfishing Program and has served as an angling skills instructor for seven years, providing lessons on casting and knot tying to youth. She also helps plan and coordinate the annual 4-H “Let’s Go Fishing” clinic each year. Under her five-year leadership as the sponsor for the Lafayette 4-H Junior Leadership Program, the program's Junior Leaders portfolio won first place all five years in the state 4-H Records contest. Denise Turner has also served as the chairman of the Lafayette 4-H Youth Development Advisory Council and is currently on the Volunteer and Leadership Development Subcommittee as well as the State Volunteer Leader Initiative Team. Denise Turner has earned high regard from the Lafayette 4-H agents as she volunteers her time two or three days a week every year helping maintain the quality of the parish 4-H program.

Rufus Walker
Grant Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Rufus Walker was responsible for donating and selling the first land to form Camp Grant Walker in the 1930s. The camp’s name is representative of Walker’s last name and Grant Parish. His land was the site of the very first 4-H Camp in Louisiana in 1922 where the youth camped out in tents.

Joe T. Walters Jr., a 4-H volunteer with more than 19 years of service, is a past chair of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and has received the National 4-H Salute to Excellence Award.

Ivory Williams committed herself to the 4-H program for 29 years. She is the five-time recipient of the parish’s Outstanding 4-H Leader Award, has served as president of the Iberville Parish 4-H Foundation for three years and is currently on the 4-H Advisory Committee. She has volunteered as an adult leader at 4-H Camp Grant Walker for several years as well as helped prepare youth for contests held at 4-H Short Course.

Mary McKee Williams began serving as a 4-H leader and volunteer in 1956, helping many youth prepare demonstration projects and assisting with parish and state 4-H events. She has been honored as the Louisiana Outstanding 4-H Club Leader and attended the Club Congress in Chicago, In the 1970s she received the Good Provider Award, the 4-H Alumni Award and the Attorney General's Award.

Wayne Williams, Superintendent of Webster Parish schools, has witnessed the effect of the 4-H program on his son, who was president of the State 4-H Executive Board. He welcomes LSU AgCenter staff to school board and principal meetings and grants permission for 4-H Fun Day to be held during a school day.

Winston was known as “Big Tam” for his generosity in helping 4-H livestock exhibitors learn life skills and for setting an example of helping others throughout his life. Through his determination and leadership, the Concordia Parish livestock program at one point exhibited more than 80 cattle at the district and state shows.

As a youth in 1912, Stella Jones was involved in the various agricultural and domestic clubs that became known later as 4-H. As an adult, she dedicated 43 years of service to the 4-H program from 1925-67. From 1961-67, she worked at the state 4-H office on records, demonstrations, parish fairs and developing enrollment and new programs. She was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2005.

Charles Dill Sr. was a volunteer leader for more than 30 years in Vermilion Parish. He was a charter member of the Vermilion Parish 4-H Foundation and helped the foundation reach its $100,000 goal. He also served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board. Because Dill understood the importance of developing public speaking skills in youth, he established the Vermilion 4-H Cooperative Speech Contest. He securred donors to sponsor a steak banquet for contestants and their families for 15 years. This program was so successful that Dill was invited to serve as a judge for the state speech contest during Short Course. As chairman of the Extension Building Committee, which began in 1977, Dill promoted the Vermilion Extension Service and generated community support for a parishwide tax to build the Vermilion Extension office and Junior Livestock Show facility. Through his leadership, vision and genuine interest in youth, Charles E. Dill Sr. truly helped establish the Vermilion 4-H program.

Durell Peloquin, Sr. was an active supporter of the Allen Parish 4-H program and was president of the Allen Parish Fair Association. He also served on the Southwest District Show Committee and the scholarship committee.

Austin J. Daniel
West Feliciana Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Austin J. Daniel gained many experiences as a member of the 4-H program. As sheriff, he supports the 4-H program to benefit families in his parish. He provides departmental resources during the Junior Livestock Show and supports 4-H members financially through the sale of livestock animals conducted by the Livestock Club.

Josephine Cashio André was an honored educator for 25 years who accepted the responsibility of 4-H Club Leader throughout her career. She led her members and officers through leadership training and personal guidance that helped prepare them to become successful, active members of the community today.

Winston was known as “Big Tam” for his generosity in helping 4-H livestock exhibitors learn life skills and for setting an example of helping others throughout his life. Through his determination and leadership, the Concordia Parish livestock program at one point exhibited more than 80 cattle at the district and state shows.

As an active volunteer for over 40 years, James Templet has made many contributions to 4-H. He was instrumental in establishing the first 4-H Family Day and assisted with 4-H University trainings. Today he serves on the South Central District Livestock Board representing Assumption Parish. He is also a big part of the Assumption 4-H Ag Day, in which he exhibits “Agricultural History” by performing demonstrations with antique farm equipment.

Michelle Mitchell is often referred to as the “4-H Mom” by youth in the Vernon Parish program. She was an active 4-H participant as a child and continues to be an active supporter of the program. She has served in numerous roles from teen organizational leader and coach of 4-H University to state 4-H Day at the Capitol committee member. One of her most noteworthy projects is her work in a hurricane relief service project that gained statewide recognition.

Enaux Rivere
Assumption Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Enaux Rivere began his 4-H career as a 4-H’er in 1959 and continues to volunteer and support today. He is a livestock project leader who raised pigs and sold them at low cost or gave them to 4-H members so they would learn responsibility while participating the the livestock project. He also has a herd of dairy cows that he guides 4-H'ers to care for and show at no cost to them. He attends all the livestock shows to demonstrate support to the youth he helps and has traveled to Memphis, Tenn., to watch youth show their dairy cows. He has served on parish 4-H committees, judged events and is a member of the Assumption 4-H Advisory Committee. Each year, 2,000 youth and adults visit his Dairy Educational Display at Ag Day.

Clayton "Clay" Matthew Samson served the LSU AgCenter as a trainee, assistant, associate and county agent with 33 years of service. His involvement with 4-H was extensive as he worked with hundreds of 4-H families with livestock projects. He began a “Poultry Chain” project to give youth with limited resources the means to participate in a livestock project. He served on numerous 4-H statewide committees related to camp and livestock shows. He is remembered for his great compassion for youth and their families. 

John Stamper of Bossier Parish was an avid supporter of 4-H throughout his career as an educator and continued to support Bossier Parish 4-H as a volunteer leader after his retirement.  During his many years as an educator (1956-1984), his 4-H Clubs were always very active and enthusiastic.  After his retirement he remained involved with 4-H as a volunteer leader for the Bossier Parish Outdoor 4-H Club. At the annual National Hunting and Fishing Day at the Bodcau Wildlife Management Area he conducted educational and competitive events on leaf collection, compass and pacing treasure hunts, tree measuring, fire building, outdoor cooking and many other topics. He also planned and conducted the club's overnight campout each year. For Stamper's last year as the Outdoor Club's leader, he invited the group to camp out at his camp.  Mr. Stamper passed away in 1999.

Willie Russell is a former 4-H agent and member of the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association and Louisiana Catfish Association, which provides $300 annually to the area 4-H cookery contest. He received the National County Agents Association Distinguished Service Award.

John D. Andrews, a county agent with more than 30 years of service, provided minority youth the opportunities to learn valuable life skills as responsible adults and future leaders in their communities. He was especially noted for giving extra help to his 4-H'ers so they could expererience the satisfaction of completing tasks and the achievement of winning.   

Dr. Jack Bagent, retired vice chancellor of the LSU AgCenter and director of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, became involved in 4-H as a young boy in elementary school. He credits 4-H with giving him educational and travel opportunities that were otherwise unavailable to him in his rural environment. In 1964 he became entomology specialist for the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, and in 1973 he became a division leader. He became director in 1995 and served for six years. During his 37-year career with the Extension Service, Dr. Bagent made major contributions to 4-H at the local, state and national levels. He also earned a reputation as an expert entomologist and a caring leader. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2002.

Joseph L. Baronet
Acadia Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Joseph L. Baronet, a 4-H alumnus, was a livestock leader for more than 43 years and was instrumental in organizing the first annual livestock sale in 1968. He was a key figure in securing support for the Acadia Parish multipurpose facility and extension office.

Wayne Williams, Superintendent of Webster Parish schools, has witnessed the effect of the 4-H program on his son, who was president of the State 4-H Executive Board. He welcomes LSU AgCenter staff to school board and principal meetings and grants permission for 4-H Fun Day to be held during a school day.

Mary McKee Williams began serving as a 4-H leader and volunteer in 1956, helping many youth prepare demonstration projects and assisting with parish and state 4-H events. She has been honored as the Louisiana Outstanding 4-H Club Leader and attended the Club Congress in Chicago, In the 1970s she received the Good Provider Award, the 4-H Alumni Award and the Attorney General's Award.

Joanne Bolding, who has 42 years of involvement with 4-H, was first introduced to 4-H when her county agent asked her dad to let her show sheep. She became an avid 4-H'er, showing winning animals at state contests. From 1970-1990, she was the volunteer organizational club leader at Forest High School and every year assisted 25-30 club members with a wide variety of projects. She chaperoned numerous events, conducted workshops at her home and conducted sewing contests. Her 4-H'ers developed numerous winning livestock and fair exhibits and won many state contests and trips. One year, Bolding traveled over 5,000 miles in her cars as a 4-H volunteer. She has served on the 4-H Foundation Board and 4-H Advisory Leadership Council. She has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Award and 4-H Good Provider Leader Award.

Ivory Williams committed herself to the 4-H program for 29 years. She is the five-time recipient of the parish’s Outstanding 4-H Leader Award, has served as president of the Iberville Parish 4-H Foundation for three years and is currently on the 4-H Advisory Committee. She has volunteered as an adult leader at 4-H Camp Grant Walker for several years as well as helped prepare youth for contests held at 4-H Short Course.

Carroll Boudreaux serves as president of the Iberia Parish 4-H Foundation and was a board member of the state 4-H Foundation. He has helped obtain endowed funds for scholarships, awards and numerous events and activities. He has worked as a 4-H livestock volunteer, conducts educational clinics and hosts livestock shows.

Joe T. Walters Jr., a 4-H volunteer with more than 19 years of service, is a past chair of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and has received the National 4-H Salute to Excellence Award.

Harriet Bridges is a retired 4-H agent with more than 30 years of service. Her work with the Louisiana State Cotton Museum continues to educate youth about the importance of agriculture.

Emma Broussard credits 4-H for what she has achieved in life. She became a 4-H member in 1949 and remains active with the organization. She serves as a judge for various parish events and has been a 4-H camp counselor.

Rufus Walker
Grant Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Rufus Walker was responsible for donating and selling the first land to form Camp Grant Walker in the 1930s. The camp’s name is representative of Walker’s last name and Grant Parish. His land was the site of the very first 4-H Camp in Louisiana in 1922 where the youth camped out in tents.

Beverly Bruce was an extension home economist and later a member of the Louisiana Legislature, where she championed the 4-H character education programs. She was instrumental in establishing 4-H Day at the Capitol, which was held for the 6th year in 2008.

Brenda Bulot has been a 4-H leader for 15 years. She has also served on the Plaquemines Parish Advisory Committee, assisted 4-H agents with 4-H camp and 4-H University for 10 years and provided invaluable service to the Plaquemines Parish 4-H program.

Denise Turner of Lafayette Parish began volunteering with 4-H when her sons Chad and Cody joined their local 4-H Clubs. She enters data into the enrollment program and pulls and labels hundreds of project books to be delivered to Lafayette 4-H members each year. She received training in the Louisiana 4-H Sportsfishing Program and has served as an angling skills instructor for seven years, providing lessons on casting and knot tying to youth. She also helps plan and coordinate the annual 4-H “Let’s Go Fishing” clinic each year. Under her five-year leadership as the sponsor for the Lafayette 4-H Junior Leadership Program, the program's Junior Leaders portfolio won first place all five years in the state 4-H Records contest. Denise Turner has also served as the chairman of the Lafayette 4-H Youth Development Advisory Council and is currently on the Volunteer and Leadership Development Subcommittee as well as the State Volunteer Leader Initiative Team. Denise Turner has earned high regard from the Lafayette 4-H agents as she volunteers her time two or three days a week every year helping maintain the quality of the parish 4-H program.

William Thomas "W. T." Burton
(deceased)
Calcasieu Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

William Thomas Burton's contributions to Calcasieu Parish 4-H were enormous and considered visionary for his time. Known as "W. T.," Burton's philanthropy supported many youth programs, and the 4-H program was one of them. He played a vital role in establishing the first livestock show and sale in southwest Louisiana. He donated a parcel of land south of Lake Charles to build a facility to hold livestock shows. His leadership helped pave the way for Burton Coliseum, which is named after him.

Carroll Charpentier has been a leader throughout 60 years of involvement with 4-H and a firm believer in what 4-H means in developing youth to the best of their ability. He serves on the advisory committee with an emphasis on poultry at the state level. He is recognized as a poultry expert. He and his family have won many poultry awards over the years.

Kathy Colson has been a 4-H volunteer for more than 20 years, engaging youth in dairy projects and contests and teaching school children that milk comes from cows.

Jimbo Thiels began 4-H work as a child, and as an adult he has made a tremendous impact on the 4-H program at the parish and state levels. He served numerous roles on parish-level committees and as president of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He currently is chairman of the Central District Livestock Show Committee, secures buyers for the the livestock and is the host of the live TV broadcast of the sale of champions.

Kermit Coulon served as a 4-H agent, a county agent and the district agent for the Cane Belt Area for many years before retiring. While he was district agent, he had one of the best-attended area 4-H Junior Leadership Conferences in the state. Coulon believes 4-H livestock projects are one of the best ways to get young people to learn and grow to develop leadership potential. Although retired, he still volunteers to assist with 4-H activities and shows.

Crawford Alexander Bishop joined the 4-H Club at the age of 10 and, as an adult, was dedicated to the livestock project because it taught responsibility. He made sure that any child who wanted to participate had the opportunity to do so. He chaired the Livestock Sales Committee for more than 20 years. He received numerous awards and was instrumental in establishing the Acadiana Livestock Show.

Lafayette Fearn Swoope Jr. of Calcasieu Parish joined the Cooperative Extension Service in 1957 as an assistant county agent in Caldwell Parish. In 1958 he transferred to East Carroll Parish, then become a county agent in Calcasieu Parish from 1967 until his retirement in 1989. Swoope always saw the value in each child and sought ways to inspire them them to reach their potential through 4-H projects. He encouraged youth to develop resonsibility through the livestock project, served as the Southwest District Livestock Show manager for years and raised 4-H club lambs for 50 years. Swoope recognized the need for 4-H volunteers and formed one of the first parish advisory committees in Louisiana. For 45 years, the Calcasieu Parish advisory committee has conducted successful fundraisers through the World’s Finest Chocolate. Swoope still raises lambs, teaches families about raising them and serves as a volunteer leader in the livestock program.

Mattie Rae Strong has supported 4-H for 44 years. She received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Recognition Award and served on the 4-H Advisory Leadership Council.

Beth Dawson has been involved in 4-H for 37 years. She has served as a 4-H Club leader, project leader, extension adviser and foundation trustee, as well as a community leader. She is a member of the East Feliciana 4-H Foundation Board of Directors and has served terms on both the parish 4-H and the overall Extension Advisory Leadership councils. Dawson continues to influence youth today as a volunteer and project leader. She serves on the Parish Advisory Leadership Council and 4-H Foundation.

Albert Doughty started his 4-H involvement in the fourth grade and, as an adult, worked for the LSU AgCenter for 33 years. He was county agent and parish chair. He is currently mayor of Benton, La.

Sheila Farmer has been an avid and enthusiastic 4-H volunteer for 22 years, chaperoning, planning workshops, organizing meetings and helping at Achievement Day. Her dedication has changed the lives of many youth.

George Fawcett became involved with 4-H as a business recruiter representing the SLEMCO utility for the parish livestock show and sale. His work yielded thousands of dollars worth of advertisements. His continuing love for the lamb project and youth is obvious as he provides the less fortunate with opportunities to participate in 4-H.

Elvadus Fields, a retired extension agent with 44 years of service, collaborated with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture Loan Program for youth livestock projects in northeast Louisiana. His leadership involvement includes the Louisiana Black Farmers and Landowners Association and Delta Livestock Enterprise.

Randall Fletcher serves on the Grant Parish 4-H Foundation and is active in his community. His high standards and insights have been an inspiration to the 4-H staff, youth and adults involved in the Grant Parish 4-H program.

Charles Lesley “C. L.” Flowers of East Baton Rouge Parish served as an extension agent, advocate, volunteer, benefactor, and advisor to the 4-H program for 62 years from 1937-1999. He began working with 4-H'ers in DeSoto Parish in 1937, specializing in the livestock project and bringing that parish's first entries to the LSU State Livestock Show. During the next 12 years, he worked in Claiborne Parish and West Feliciana Parish as county agent. He transferred to East Baton Rouge Parish in 1952 where he served both youth and adults as county agent and parish chair until his retirement in 1972. Tirelessly, he gave time and energy, both personal and professional, to touch the lives of as many children as he could. Mr. Flowers was especially dedicated to the livestock project and traveled by train all over the country with 4-H youth and their families for them to participate in livestock shows. He would sometimes ride in the rail cars with the animals to make sure they had proper care. Inner city children learned about livestock from Mr. Flowers, who donated animals to them for showing at parish, district and state shows. After retiring, Mr. Flowers continued to be involved with the 4-H program, volunteering to help at livestock shows, state contests and parish achievement days. In 1984, Mr. Flowers and his wife donated $10,000 to the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He remained supportive of the 4-H program until he passed away in 1999.

Sharon Fontenot retired from the LSU AgCenter after working with 4-H for 32 years. She remains an active volunteer, serving as 4-H University coach, 4-H Advisory Committee member and event judge.

Virgie Foreman has been an outstanding volunteer for more than 50 years. She was a charter member of the Vermilion 4-H Foundation and served as its adviser. Her contributions helped establish scholarships for students majoring in agriculture or home economics.

Linda Lee Franks has had a love of 4-H for more than 50 years, volunteering for three generations of youths. Even though fully employed as a tax preparer and bookkeeper, Franks always finds time to assist with 4-H programs that help youth to develop the qualities necessary to be successful.

William Freshwater was the Moreauville High School principal in 1908, where the first Corn Club for boys was started. Originally from Illinois, Freshwater came to Louisiana in 1902 and is credited with bringing the 4-H concept to Louisiana from his home state. The success of the Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as the 4-H Club.

Charles A. Fuselier is a 4-H alumnus and active supporter of the 4-H program. During his career as sheriff, he seldom encountered a former or current 4-H member in trouble. A parish scholarship was developed in his honor in 2002.

Conrad Gauthier
(deceased)
St. Martin Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Conrad Gauthier was one of the most influential 4-H agents in St. Martin Parish during his 25-year career. A scholarship fund, which has benefitted 98 4-H members, was established in 1977 to recognize his accomplishments.

Wayne Gilmore has been an avid 4-H supporter since 1982, when he helped establish the parish 4-H Foundation; he served as chairman for 25 years. He helped fund numerous 4-H programs and has served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation board. He also works with livestock and woodworking projects.

Margaret Sorenson began her 4-H career at the age of 10 years old. During her 30-year career as a 4-H Club leader, she received the Leader of the Year Award numerous times and also was awarded the 4-H Alumni Award during Short Course. Margaret also served as an adviser to the State 4-H Fashion Board and was instrumental in starting a 4-H Fashion Board in Livingston Parish in 1995.

John C. Guidry was a 4-H volunteer for more than 45 years. His work was often behind-the-scenes as he worked with businesses to support youth by purchasing animals at livestock shows.

Loretta Guidry of Lafourche Parish was a teacher and 4-H Club leader at Larose-Cut Off Junior High School for 30 years. Her enthusiasm and guidance inspired many of her club members to win state and national contests. Her club won at Achievement Day in its division 15 years in a row. Mrs. Guidry was a Blue Ribbon winner in the State Adult Leader Records Contest multiple times and also received the Good Provider Award. Additionally, she served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees. Loretta Guidry is regarded as an ideal role model of all 4-H leaders. She retired in 1993 and now devotes her time to helping her grandchildren with 4-H record books, contests and activities.

Bernie Hambrice was a teacher and 4-H leader in St. Bernard Parish for 25 years. She could inspire more than 200 fourth- and fifth-graders to participate in her school's 4-H Clubs. Although retired, she still returns to volunteer and bring smiles to many children’s faces.

Rick Hargis and his family established the Grand Champion Jersey Cow Award at the LSU Spring Livestock Show in 1995 in memory of his son Chad, and they have sponsored the award since then. He has been chairman of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation and actively involved in the Natchitoches Parish 4-H Foundation since it was created, serving as vice president and treasurer. He also was instrumental in providing funds to build a 4-H exhibit building and livestock facility in Natchitoches Parish.

Gary Hebert was a 4-H member in the 1940s and held every club office possible. An avid writer, he honed his skills through reading everything that the Extension Service published about writing. He and his wife began a weekly newspaper in 1957, which provided extensive coverage of 4-H news. Gary Hebert won the 4-H Alumni Recognition Award in 1961.

Idell Snowden, an extension agent for 34 years, continues to show support to the Natchitoches Parish 4-H youth development program. When she was employed by the LSU AgCenter, she worked closely with African-American youth. Throughout her career she created an atmosphere in the parish 4-H organization that allowed all races to interact comfortably, thus making all youth feel welcome.

Mansel S. Slaughter, a volunteer for over 35 years from East Baton Rouge Parish, made significant contributions to the 4-H program with a special interest in the livestock project. He tirelessly volunteered to help youth with the swine and beef projects, served as superintendent of the parish swine show and donated steers to youth who could not have participated in the program without his generosity. He also helped out at Achievement Day and at other 4-H events. Through his assistance with the Louisiana Cattlemen's Association Beef Month program, 4-H youth visited the mayor as an ambassador for the agricultural community. He served on the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H livestock sales committee and the LSU AgCenter’s Agribusiness Council. Posthumously, he continues to give through the Mansel S. Slaughter Memorial Fund through the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H Foundation. While serving in World War II, he received the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, four Battle Stars and the Victory Medal.

Lan Hoang is the first Asian-American 4-H leader in Orleans Parish. She has added diversity to the existing 4-H program, inspiring Asian-American youth and many others to participate in the 4-H. Ms. Hoang is president of the Orleans 4-H Foundation and serves on the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Robert Hoffpauir, a former 4-H agent in Jefferson Davis Parish, was a leading force in developing the first parish livestock show. He established a recognition program for outstanding 4-H Clubs that continues today.

Melvin “Kip” Holden, Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish, began his leadership development in 4-H and since has risen to become a nationally recognized leader and public servant. He has participated in the 4-H program as a club member, volunteer, benefactor and advocate for more than 40 years. He has served as a member of the Baton Rouge Metro Council and as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives and Senate. While he was on the council and as a legislator, he was extensively involved with the Southern University Livestock show for more than 15 years, raising funds and purchasing livestock. During his term as senator, he awarded a mini-grant to the East Feliciana 4-H program to support school enrichment promoting science. He also served on the 4-H Advisory Council in East Feliciana Parish. Mayor-President Holden has increased funding to the East Baton Rouge Cooperative Extension office to expand programming efforts and supports funding for a new extension office building. He also supports the LSU AgCenter's "Smart Bodies" and "Smart Choices" programs in East Baton Rouge Parish and promotes the programs to others. After Hurricane Katrina, Mayor-Presdient Holden was recognized nationally for his leadership and management of the city-parish that hosted more than 200,000 evacuees, many of them 4-H'ers and their families. Under his direction, the parish Homeland Security Office received national accreditation for meeting the nation's highest standards. He has been inducted into the LSU Alumni Hall of Fame and the LSU Manship School of Communications Hall of Fame and earned other accolades on a local, state and national level.

Calvin Stewart Shirley's 33-year career with Louisiana Extension began with work as an agent in Bossier and Caddo parishes from 1943-1955. He held a firm belief that all youth had positive characteristics and was deeply committed to guiding each youth to become a better person through the 4-H program. Shirley became 4-H Department Head in 1955 and served in that capacity for 21 years until his retirement in 1976. During that time, he was instrumental in implementing positive statewide program changes. Shirley continued to work at youth development through his work in church, community and the 4-H program in his home parish of Beauregard.

Donna Beth Karl has been involved with 4-H for 15 years and has volunteered on both the parish and district levels. She is the president of the St. Helena 4-H Educational Foundation, secretary of the Livestock Advisory Committee and leader of the Rolling Hills 4-H Community Club. She began St. Helena’s first poultry club and has served on the Parish Advisory Committee and the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Jim Shipp has been associated with 4-H for more than 30 years in a variety of assignments, including program sponsor and camp volunteer. He has been active in livestock programs, and he was instrumental in establishing a shooting sports program in the parish, securing national support and funding.

Ann Keene, who has 31 years of volunteer service to 4-H, is a 4-H Foundation past chair. She has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Award, 4-H Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award and State Fair of Louisiana Volunteer Leader of the Year award.

Kate Kilpatrick dedicated more than 50 years of her life to the 4-H program. Her work and leadership led to a parish 4-H Leader Award, which is presented annually in her memory.

Virginia Kilpatrick Shehee of Caddo Parish was recognized in 1974 for purchasing the champion market hog at a record price for a special needs youth. The pig provided the youth support to enable him to learn to walk as a result of cerebral palsy. She was later recognized on the national broadcast of Paul Harvey news for her impact on the youth and his compelling story with his pig. She annually contributes more than $20,000 to 4-H youth during the Junior Livestock Sale at the State Fair of Louisiana. She routinely donates to 37 non-profit organizations, including the Louisiana 4-H Foundation.

Over the past 20 years, Rena Labat has served in a variety of roles in the 4-H program. She is currently serving on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and the Louisiana 4-H Camp Grant Walker Educational Center Advisory Board and is a coordinator for the 4-H University Fashion Revue Ready-to-Wear Contest. On the regional level, she conducts clothing-construction workshops and assists with the Area 4 Commodity Cookery Contest. Labat serves on the Terrebonne 4-H Advisory Council and works with the parish VFC group to provide scholarships and awards for the parish program.

Dalton Landry began his 4-H career in 1955. He became the county agent of Lafourche Parish in 1973 and trained many of the agents who have made the parish successful in 4-H. He established the Sugar and Seafood contest, was manager of the Lafourche Parish Fair Association and was president of the Lafourche 4-H Foundation Board. Since his retirement, he has assisted in training 4-H University contestants and judges parish 4-H contests.

Among Tom Scott’s many contributions to 4-H was his founding of the Scott Truck and Tractor Scholarship for graduating 4-H members. Annual scholarships have been awarded for the past 19 years. Presently, each parish receives $1,500 for deserving 4-H members.

Elliot E. Letlow was a 4-H agent and county agent with 38 years of service beginning in 1951. His accomplishments include working with the Junior Leaders Club and gardening contests and providing peaches for many educational demonstrations.

Lou Ella Lognion started her work with 4-H as a volunteer and a supportive mother and grandmother. She was an organizational club leader at Port Barre High School. Her interests were clothing, food and nutrition.

Patricia Russell, a 4-H volunteer for 21 years, has served on the 4-H Foundation Board and 4-H Advisory Leadership Council. She has trained 4-H University youth in nutrition and entomology projects. Russell has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Recognition Award.

Victor Leander Roy Sr., considered Louisiana’s “Father of 4-H,” as superintendent of Avoyelles Parish Schools in 1908 organized the first Boys Corn Club. He collaborated with the local railroad to transport boys to the first meeting held at Moreauville High School. The success of this first Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as 4-H Clubs. In recognition of his work, he became the first state agricultural agent stationed at LSU. He worked with Dr. Seaman A. Knapp and attended the Washington, D.C., conference that led to the creation of the 4-H Club organization. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004.

Raphael "Pookie" Rodriguez has been active in community organizations for over 40 years and supports 4-H, volunteering for numerous projects. He was a key figure in establishing the St. Mary Parish Fair Association, which has a strong relationship with the 4-H program. He served on the St. Mary 4-H Advisory Council for eight years and has assisted with 4-H events and activities including cooking, livestock projects, gardening, horticulture projects and more. His involvement with the 4-H program continues as he guides his children and grandchildren in their 4-H work.

Stephanie Rodrigue was an active 4-H member and volunteer in Lafourche and Cameron parishes. She is the superintendent of the Cameron Parish school system and also serves on the parish 4-H Foundation and 4-H Regional Advisory Committee and as announcer at many 4-H livestock events.

H.P. Roberts, a retired 4-H agent who served from l954 to 1988, influenced the lives of many 4-H’ers and went out of his way to make each one feel important. Terry Dumas, LSU AgCenter animal sciences specialist and former student of Roberts, describes him as a teacher, leader and “one of us” at the same time.

Catherine Richard was a 4-H Leader in St. Charles Parish for 55 years. Her students won numerous state and blue ribbon awards at 4-H Short Course at LSU. She served as a chaperone for the Jr. Leaders Camp and for the district wildlife trip.

Willard Rambo was the state senator responsible for legislation that appropriated $75,000 to build Camp Jesse Harrison in Grant Parish for 4-H’ers in the 1950s.

Cecil Ramagos Sr. became involved in 4-H at the age of nine and remained active long after high school. He volunteered his time, money, energy and expertise to help any 4-H’er in need for more than 30 years. His tireless efforts helped elevate the Iberville 4-H livestock project to one of the highest-quality programs in the state.

Bill Querrey has been a 4-H volunteer for 40 years. As the past president of the parish Farm Bureau and member of Louisiana Angus Association, he supported youth through field days and district and regional livestock shows.

Joe Don Powell, a former county agent, devoted 30 years to educational programs on entomology, livestock, plant science and wildlife. With integrity, tirelessness and humor, he encouraged his 4-H’ers to work, to take chances and to discover and believe in their abilities. He was a mentor to new 4-H agents and brought together community leaders, 4-H parents and politicians to organize the Red River Livestock Club, an organization that supports local 4-H projects.

Mary Poe promotes 4-H through the air waves and Web page of The Radio Center where she is employed as public service director. She serves on the Lincoln Parish Advisory Council and volunteers as a judge for contests.

Carolyn Reber Phillips served as a home economist/4-H agent for 30 years. She was instrumental in the development of the Winn Parish 4-H Woodsman’s Skills Competition as a youth event in conjunction with the Louisiana Forest Festival. She serves on the Winn Parish Advisory Committee and judges 4-H activities.

Adella Paul has provided enthusiasm as a volunteer for more than 700 4-H students. She said what she is most proud of is that she had a part in developing so many youth at an early age and seeing them become successful leaders in their communities. Many feel that she exemplifies the 4-H pillars of character and is a true leader.

Maxine Olinde was a 4-H agent who implemented a variety of programs on home economics, community development and leadership development. She is a National Association of Extension Home Economists lifetime member and was rewarded with their Distinguished Service Award. She was also recognized by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with the Home Economics Alumni Award in recognition of her contribution to 4-H Club work and service to other programs.

Clara O’Sullivan was a 4-H leader at elementary schools in Jefferson Parish. She served as a teacher representative on the Jefferson 4-H Foundation Board and on the Jefferson 4-H Advisory Council. She had the highest number of youth who stayed in 4-H beyond elementary school. She has received numerous awards from the Jefferson Parish 4-H Foundation.

Billy B. Nutt of Bienville Parish began his career in extension in 1966 in Lake Providence as an associate county agent. He successfully instilled in many youth a sense of responsibility through the livestock project, carefully guiding the youth to care for their animals, groom them and get ready to show them. He transferred to Lincoln Parish and in 1972 he moved his family to Bienville Parish as county agent and parish chair. He received numerous awards, including the LCES Program of Excellence Award, the 4-H Team Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Now retired, he assists in garden contests and beautification activities at his church, library and the courthouse.

Nancy Nettles has been involved with 4-H for 42 years. She has received the State Alumni Award, the Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award, the Outstanding Leadership Award and has served on the 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees.

Dr. C.J. Naquin dedicated his career to the 4-H program and served as the first Louisiana 4-H Foundation director. He was promoted to the State 4-H office with the responsibilities of the 4-H leadership program. He developed parish Junior Leader Clubs throughout the state and was responsible for naming a Louisiana room at the National 4-H Center. He started the first LABO exchange program and organized a 4-H camp for disabled youth at Camp Grant Walker. Dr. Naquin also served on several regional and national committees. In 2008, he was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.

Jean Mitchell has served as a 4-H organizational leader and volunteer, touching the lives of many youths. She instilled a tradition of 4-H that increased enrollment and participation in 4-H in her parish. In encouraging youth, she always provides them with experiences that are fun and educational and emphasize demonstration skills.

B.U. Miller worked with students in the 4-H livestock program. He served on the 4-H advisory board and also worked with the fundraising committee for the livestock project. He often would cover the cost of the project for youth unable to afford the expenses. He always said he was rewarded beyond his dreams through the accomplishments of his children and the youth he worked with through 4-H.

Lina Ruth Miller has served as a 4-H volunteer for more than 40 years. Her roles have ranged from organizational club leader, advisory committee member and parish junior leader to judge for various 4-H events. She has received the 4-H Alumni Award and was instrumental in establishing a parish scholarship for 4-H club members.

Dr. Charles Miller started his involvement in 4-H as a member in the 1930s. His career as a 4-H agent began in 1948, and he retired in 1993. He remains an avid 4-H supporter.

Joan McCrory touched the lives of many 4-H’ers throughout Louisiana from when she began her career as a 4-H agent in 1969 until her retirement in 2005 as a professor in the LSU AgCenter’s Department of 4-H Youth Development. She developed publications and guidelines for several significant Louisiana 4-H programs and was continually committed to fostering life skills in youth. She continues to volunteer with the 4-H program and was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2007.

Mable Yvonne Lorenz of Beauregard Parish has been a 4-H leader for 48 years. She has held summer workshops for 4-H’ers at her home, teaching sewing, cooking and handicraft projects and helping youth work on their 4-H record books. She often gave 4-H'ers a ride to meetings throughout Beauregard Parish and assisted at meetings with whatever needed to be done. As a school bus driver for 15 years (1973-1988), Lorenz volunteered her time and fuel to transport 4-H’ers to the annual Beauregard Parish 4-H Achievement Day, where she also served as a judge for contests. For 30 years, she also transported hundreds of 4-H projects to the annual parish fair, helped prepare and sell hamburgers at the 4-H Junior Leader food booth or worked in other 4-H booths. She served as the leader for the Beauregard Parish Junior Leaders Club from 1978-85 and has hosted 4-H exchange students from South Carolina and Kansas. She continues to volunteer at 4-H events and is known for saying "Tell me when and where, and I'll be there to help."

John Lowe was a 4-H agent and parish chair who spent countless hours mentoring 4-H youth and their families. He serves on the Ark-La-Tex Agricultural Council, Caddo Parish Farm Bureau and State Fair of Louisiana board of directors and remains active in 4-H events and contest judging.

Nancy W. Marceaux of Vermilion Parish has served as an organizational leader at Kaplan High School for 30 years. For years, Marceaux and her active club hosted two major annual 4-H events, Demonstration Day and Achievement Day. Under her guidance, many Vermilion Parish delegates to Short Course/4-H University were her club members. She often held parishwide workshops to assist not only her 4-H'ers but also those from other clubs. She was named State 4-H Alumni winner in 1999. She has been an active member in the parish 4-H Advisory Committee, serving as chairman for five years. All four of her children were active in 4-H and are now serving as adult volunteers.

Marleen Mayfield of St. Bernard Parish has immersed herself in the parish 4-H program since 2003 as a club leader, advisory committee member, and summer 4-H camp volunteer locally and at the state 4-H camp. She assists youth with project work, service projects and leadership training. She also conducts recruiting and training for other adult leaders. Mayfield helped coordinate the 4-H after-school program at Andrew Jackson Elementary and organized one of the first 4-H clubs to return to St. Bernard after Hurricane Katrina. She received a Toyota Prius after Hurricane Katrina from Phoenix Suns basketball player Amar’e Stoudemire and was recognized with a Gold 4-H Club Award in 2003, 2004 and 2005. This award has not been given since Hurricane Katrina.

Carroll Adams started his 4-H career in 1973 and served 4-H for 34 years. He attended 4-H Camp every year and spent much of his time serving as a judge for various contests, including pet shows and the Chick-N-Que Contest. He was the St. John Parish garden project leader, teaching 4-H members to grow healthy plants that they would sell to the community to raise money for their 4-H Club or to help send a child to camp. Carroll Adams was a role model to many black men and donated his time not only on the parish level but also on the regional and state levels.

Laverne Hightower has been a volunteer for 24 years. She has conducted record book workshops, served on the State 4-H Advisory Council and was a delegate to Washington, D.C., for the Louisiana 4-H Volunteer Ambassador Program. She was a charter member and treasurer of the Claiborne 4-H Foundation.

Joan McCrory touched the lives of many 4-H’ers throughout Louisiana from when she began her career as a 4-H agent in 1969 until her retirement in 2005 as a professor in the LSU AgCenter’s Department of 4-H Youth Development. She developed publications and guidelines for several significant Louisiana 4-H programs and was continually committed to fostering life skills in youth. She continues to volunteer with the 4-H program and was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2007.

Joseph L. Baronet
Acadia Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Joseph L. Baronet, a 4-H alumnus, was a livestock leader for more than 43 years and was instrumental in organizing the first annual livestock sale in 1968. He was a key figure in securing support for the Acadia Parish multipurpose facility and extension office.

Durell Peloquin, Sr. was an active supporter of the Allen Parish 4-H program and was president of the Allen Parish Fair Association. He also served on the Southwest District Show Committee and the scholarship committee.

Crawford Alexander Bishop joined the 4-H Club at the age of 10 and, as an adult, was dedicated to the livestock project because it taught responsibility. He made sure that any child who wanted to participate had the opportunity to do so. He chaired the Livestock Sales Committee for more than 20 years. He received numerous awards and was instrumental in establishing the Acadiana Livestock Show.

Walter C. Abbott contributed 52 years to the Louisiana 4-H program and served as the State 4-H Leader from 1919-49. He implemented the organization for standard 4-H Clubs for both boys and girls, helped develop the Junior Livestock Shows, organized the concepts of parish Achievements Days, oversaw the building of the state 4-H camp at Camp Grant Walker and organized the first Junior Leadership, wildlife and forestry camps. He also developed a self-financing program for educational trips that ensured trips for contest winners even during the Depression years. W.C. Abbott served on many regional and national committees and continued to serve as a 4-H volunteer after his retirement. A man of many firsts in Louisiana 4-H, Abbott became known as “Mr. 4-H.” He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2006.

As an active volunteer for over 40 years, James Templet has made many contributions to 4-H. He was instrumental in establishing the first 4-H Family Day and assisted with 4-H University trainings. Today he serves on the South Central District Livestock Board representing Assumption Parish. He is also a big part of the Assumption 4-H Ag Day, in which he exhibits “Agricultural History” by performing demonstrations with antique farm equipment.

Enaux Rivere
Assumption Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Enaux Rivere began his 4-H career as a 4-H’er in 1959 and continues to volunteer and support today. He is a livestock project leader who raised pigs and sold them at low cost or gave them to 4-H members so they would learn responsibility while participating the the livestock project. He also has a herd of dairy cows that he guides 4-H'ers to care for and show at no cost to them. He attends all the livestock shows to demonstrate support to the youth he helps and has traveled to Memphis, Tenn., to watch youth show their dairy cows. He has served on parish 4-H committees, judged events and is a member of the Assumption 4-H Advisory Committee. Each year, 2,000 youth and adults visit his Dairy Educational Display at Ag Day.

Victor Leander Roy Sr., considered Louisiana’s “Father of 4-H,” as superintendent of Avoyelles Parish Schools in 1908 organized the first Boys Corn Club. He collaborated with the local railroad to transport boys to the first meeting held at Moreauville High School. The success of this first Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as 4-H Clubs. In recognition of his work, he became the first state agricultural agent stationed at LSU. He worked with Dr. Seaman A. Knapp and attended the Washington, D.C., conference that led to the creation of the 4-H Club organization. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004.

William Freshwater was the Moreauville High School principal in 1908, where the first Corn Club for boys was started. Originally from Illinois, Freshwater came to Louisiana in 1902 and is credited with bringing the 4-H concept to Louisiana from his home state. The success of the Corn Club led to establishing other agricultural and domestic clubs that became collectively known as the 4-H Club.

Calvin Stewart Shirley's 33-year career with Louisiana Extension began with work as an agent in Bossier and Caddo parishes from 1943-1955. He held a firm belief that all youth had positive characteristics and was deeply committed to guiding each youth to become a better person through the 4-H program. Shirley became 4-H Department Head in 1955 and served in that capacity for 21 years until his retirement in 1976. During that time, he was instrumental in implementing positive statewide program changes. Shirley continued to work at youth development through his work in church, community and the 4-H program in his home parish of Beauregard.

Lina Ruth Miller has served as a 4-H volunteer for more than 40 years. Her roles have ranged from organizational club leader, advisory committee member and parish junior leader to judge for various 4-H events. She has received the 4-H Alumni Award and was instrumental in establishing a parish scholarship for 4-H club members.

Mable Yvonne Lorenz of Beauregard Parish has been a 4-H leader for 48 years. She has held summer workshops for 4-H’ers at her home, teaching sewing, cooking and handicraft projects and helping youth work on their 4-H record books. She often gave 4-H'ers a ride to meetings throughout Beauregard Parish and assisted at meetings with whatever needed to be done. As a school bus driver for 15 years (1973-1988), Lorenz volunteered her time and fuel to transport 4-H’ers to the annual Beauregard Parish 4-H Achievement Day, where she also served as a judge for contests. For 30 years, she also transported hundreds of 4-H projects to the annual parish fair, helped prepare and sell hamburgers at the 4-H Junior Leader food booth or worked in other 4-H booths. She served as the leader for the Beauregard Parish Junior Leaders Club from 1978-85 and has hosted 4-H exchange students from South Carolina and Kansas. She continues to volunteer at 4-H events and is known for saying "Tell me when and where, and I'll be there to help."

Billy B. Nutt of Bienville Parish began his career in extension in 1966 in Lake Providence as an associate county agent. He successfully instilled in many youth a sense of responsibility through the livestock project, carefully guiding the youth to care for their animals, groom them and get ready to show them. He transferred to Lincoln Parish and in 1972 he moved his family to Bienville Parish as county agent and parish chair. He received numerous awards, including the LCES Program of Excellence Award, the 4-H Team Award and the Distinguished Service Award. Now retired, he assists in garden contests and beautification activities at his church, library and the courthouse.

Elliot E. Letlow was a 4-H agent and county agent with 38 years of service beginning in 1951. His accomplishments include working with the Junior Leaders Club and gardening contests and providing peaches for many educational demonstrations.

John Stamper of Bossier Parish was an avid supporter of 4-H throughout his career as an educator and continued to support Bossier Parish 4-H as a volunteer leader after his retirement.  During his many years as an educator (1956-1984), his 4-H Clubs were always very active and enthusiastic.  After his retirement he remained involved with 4-H as a volunteer leader for the Bossier Parish Outdoor 4-H Club. At the annual National Hunting and Fishing Day at the Bodcau Wildlife Management Area he conducted educational and competitive events on leaf collection, compass and pacing treasure hunts, tree measuring, fire building, outdoor cooking and many other topics. He also planned and conducted the club's overnight campout each year. For Stamper's last year as the Outdoor Club's leader, he invited the group to camp out at his camp.  Mr. Stamper passed away in 1999.

Albert Doughty started his 4-H involvement in the fourth grade and, as an adult, worked for the LSU AgCenter for 33 years. He was county agent and parish chair. He is currently mayor of Benton, La.

Dr. Jack Bagent, retired vice chancellor of the LSU AgCenter and director of the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, became involved in 4-H as a young boy in elementary school. He credits 4-H with giving him educational and travel opportunities that were otherwise unavailable to him in his rural environment. In 1964 he became entomology specialist for the Louisiana Cooperative Extension Service, and in 1973 he became a division leader. He became director in 1995 and served for six years. During his 37-year career with the Extension Service, Dr. Bagent made major contributions to 4-H at the local, state and national levels. He also earned a reputation as an expert entomologist and a caring leader. He was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2002.

Mary McKee Williams began serving as a 4-H leader and volunteer in 1956, helping many youth prepare demonstration projects and assisting with parish and state 4-H events. She has been honored as the Louisiana Outstanding 4-H Club Leader and attended the Club Congress in Chicago, In the 1970s she received the Good Provider Award, the 4-H Alumni Award and the Attorney General's Award.

Virginia Kilpatrick Shehee of Caddo Parish was recognized in 1974 for purchasing the champion market hog at a record price for a special needs youth. The pig provided the youth support to enable him to learn to walk as a result of cerebral palsy. She was later recognized on the national broadcast of Paul Harvey news for her impact on the youth and his compelling story with his pig. She annually contributes more than $20,000 to 4-H youth during the Junior Livestock Sale at the State Fair of Louisiana. She routinely donates to 37 non-profit organizations, including the Louisiana 4-H Foundation.

John Lowe was a 4-H agent and parish chair who spent countless hours mentoring 4-H youth and their families. He serves on the Ark-La-Tex Agricultural Council, Caddo Parish Farm Bureau and State Fair of Louisiana board of directors and remains active in 4-H events and contest judging.

Lafayette Fearn Swoope Jr. of Calcasieu Parish joined the Cooperative Extension Service in 1957 as an assistant county agent in Caldwell Parish. In 1958 he transferred to East Carroll Parish, then become a county agent in Calcasieu Parish from 1967 until his retirement in 1989. Swoope always saw the value in each child and sought ways to inspire them them to reach their potential through 4-H projects. He encouraged youth to develop resonsibility through the livestock project, served as the Southwest District Livestock Show manager for years and raised 4-H club lambs for 50 years. Swoope recognized the need for 4-H volunteers and formed one of the first parish advisory committees in Louisiana. For 45 years, the Calcasieu Parish advisory committee has conducted successful fundraisers through the World’s Finest Chocolate. Swoope still raises lambs, teaches families about raising them and serves as a volunteer leader in the livestock program.

John C. Guidry was a 4-H volunteer for more than 45 years. His work was often behind-the-scenes as he worked with businesses to support youth by purchasing animals at livestock shows.

William Thomas "W. T." Burton
(deceased)
Calcasieu Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

William Thomas Burton's contributions to Calcasieu Parish 4-H were enormous and considered visionary for his time. Known as "W. T.," Burton's philanthropy supported many youth programs, and the 4-H program was one of them. He played a vital role in establishing the first livestock show and sale in southwest Louisiana. He donated a parcel of land south of Lake Charles to build a facility to hold livestock shows. His leadership helped pave the way for Burton Coliseum, which is named after him.

Patricia Russell, a 4-H volunteer for 21 years, has served on the 4-H Foundation Board and 4-H Advisory Leadership Council. She has trained 4-H University youth in nutrition and entomology projects. Russell has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Recognition Award.

Stephanie Rodrigue was an active 4-H member and volunteer in Lafourche and Cameron parishes. She is the superintendent of the Cameron Parish school system and also serves on the parish 4-H Foundation and 4-H Regional Advisory Committee and as announcer at many 4-H livestock events.

Jean Mitchell has served as a 4-H organizational leader and volunteer, touching the lives of many youths. She instilled a tradition of 4-H that increased enrollment and participation in 4-H in her parish. In encouraging youth, she always provides them with experiences that are fun and educational and emphasize demonstration skills.

Laverne Hightower has been a volunteer for 24 years. She has conducted record book workshops, served on the State 4-H Advisory Council and was a delegate to Washington, D.C., for the Louisiana 4-H Volunteer Ambassador Program. She was a charter member and treasurer of the Claiborne 4-H Foundation.

Winston was known as “Big Tam” for his generosity in helping 4-H livestock exhibitors learn life skills and for setting an example of helping others throughout his life. Through his determination and leadership, the Concordia Parish livestock program at one point exhibited more than 80 cattle at the district and state shows.

Adella Paul has provided enthusiasm as a volunteer for more than 700 4-H students. She said what she is most proud of is that she had a part in developing so many youth at an early age and seeing them become successful leaders in their communities. Many feel that she exemplifies the 4-H pillars of character and is a true leader.

B.U. Miller worked with students in the 4-H livestock program. He served on the 4-H advisory board and also worked with the fundraising committee for the livestock project. He often would cover the cost of the project for youth unable to afford the expenses. He always said he was rewarded beyond his dreams through the accomplishments of his children and the youth he worked with through 4-H.

Beverly Bruce was an extension home economist and later a member of the Louisiana Legislature, where she championed the 4-H character education programs. She was instrumental in establishing 4-H Day at the Capitol, which was held for the 6th year in 2008.

Dr. C.J. Naquin dedicated his career to the 4-H program and served as the first Louisiana 4-H Foundation director. He was promoted to the State 4-H office with the responsibilities of the 4-H leadership program. He developed parish Junior Leader Clubs throughout the state and was responsible for naming a Louisiana room at the National 4-H Center. He started the first LABO exchange program and organized a 4-H camp for disabled youth at Camp Grant Walker. Dr. Naquin also served on several regional and national committees. In 2008, he was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.

Mansel S. Slaughter, a volunteer for over 35 years from East Baton Rouge Parish, made significant contributions to the 4-H program with a special interest in the livestock project. He tirelessly volunteered to help youth with the swine and beef projects, served as superintendent of the parish swine show and donated steers to youth who could not have participated in the program without his generosity. He also helped out at Achievement Day and at other 4-H events. Through his assistance with the Louisiana Cattlemen's Association Beef Month program, 4-H youth visited the mayor as an ambassador for the agricultural community. He served on the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H livestock sales committee and the LSU AgCenter’s Agribusiness Council. Posthumously, he continues to give through the Mansel S. Slaughter Memorial Fund through the East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H Foundation. While serving in World War II, he received the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, four Battle Stars and the Victory Medal.

Melvin “Kip” Holden, Mayor-President of East Baton Rouge Parish, began his leadership development in 4-H and since has risen to become a nationally recognized leader and public servant. He has participated in the 4-H program as a club member, volunteer, benefactor and advocate for more than 40 years. He has served as a member of the Baton Rouge Metro Council and as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives and Senate. While he was on the council and as a legislator, he was extensively involved with the Southern University Livestock show for more than 15 years, raising funds and purchasing livestock. During his term as senator, he awarded a mini-grant to the East Feliciana 4-H program to support school enrichment promoting science. He also served on the 4-H Advisory Council in East Feliciana Parish. Mayor-President Holden has increased funding to the East Baton Rouge Cooperative Extension office to expand programming efforts and supports funding for a new extension office building. He also supports the LSU AgCenter's "Smart Bodies" and "Smart Choices" programs in East Baton Rouge Parish and promotes the programs to others. After Hurricane Katrina, Mayor-Presdient Holden was recognized nationally for his leadership and management of the city-parish that hosted more than 200,000 evacuees, many of them 4-H'ers and their families. Under his direction, the parish Homeland Security Office received national accreditation for meeting the nation's highest standards. He has been inducted into the LSU Alumni Hall of Fame and the LSU Manship School of Communications Hall of Fame and earned other accolades on a local, state and national level.

Charles Lesley “C. L.” Flowers of East Baton Rouge Parish served as an extension agent, advocate, volunteer, benefactor, and advisor to the 4-H program for 62 years from 1937-1999. He began working with 4-H'ers in DeSoto Parish in 1937, specializing in the livestock project and bringing that parish's first entries to the LSU State Livestock Show. During the next 12 years, he worked in Claiborne Parish and West Feliciana Parish as county agent. He transferred to East Baton Rouge Parish in 1952 where he served both youth and adults as county agent and parish chair until his retirement in 1972. Tirelessly, he gave time and energy, both personal and professional, to touch the lives of as many children as he could. Mr. Flowers was especially dedicated to the livestock project and traveled by train all over the country with 4-H youth and their families for them to participate in livestock shows. He would sometimes ride in the rail cars with the animals to make sure they had proper care. Inner city children learned about livestock from Mr. Flowers, who donated animals to them for showing at parish, district and state shows. After retiring, Mr. Flowers continued to be involved with the 4-H program, volunteering to help at livestock shows, state contests and parish achievement days. In 1984, Mr. Flowers and his wife donated $10,000 to the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He remained supportive of the 4-H program until he passed away in 1999.

Mark Bonner, a former chairman of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees and long-time supporter and sponsor of 4-H, was executive vice president and general manager of the Association of Louisiana Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Through Bonner’s leadership, this association supported the 4-H Electric Program for more than 36 years. He received numerous honors including the Citation for Outstanding Service to 4-H and the State 4-H Alumni Award. A special scholarship was established in the Louisiana 4-H Foundation to honor Bonner for his many years of leadership and sponsorship of extension and 4-H programs.

Harriet Bridges is a retired 4-H agent with more than 30 years of service. Her work with the Louisiana State Cotton Museum continues to educate youth about the importance of agriculture.

Clayton "Clay" Matthew Samson served the LSU AgCenter as a trainee, assistant, associate and county agent with 33 years of service. His involvement with 4-H was extensive as he worked with hundreds of 4-H families with livestock projects. He began a “Poultry Chain” project to give youth with limited resources the means to participate in a livestock project. He served on numerous 4-H statewide committees related to camp and livestock shows. He is remembered for his great compassion for youth and their families. 

Beth Dawson has been involved in 4-H for 37 years. She has served as a 4-H Club leader, project leader, extension adviser and foundation trustee, as well as a community leader. She is a member of the East Feliciana 4-H Foundation Board of Directors and has served terms on both the parish 4-H and the overall Extension Advisory Leadership councils. Dawson continues to influence youth today as a volunteer and project leader. She serves on the Parish Advisory Leadership Council and 4-H Foundation.

Jim Shipp has been associated with 4-H for more than 30 years in a variety of assignments, including program sponsor and camp volunteer. He has been active in livestock programs, and he was instrumental in establishing a shooting sports program in the parish, securing national support and funding.

Sharon Fontenot retired from the LSU AgCenter after working with 4-H for 32 years. She remains an active volunteer, serving as 4-H University coach, 4-H Advisory Committee member and event judge.

Among Tom Scott’s many contributions to 4-H was his founding of the Scott Truck and Tractor Scholarship for graduating 4-H members. Annual scholarships have been awarded for the past 19 years. Presently, each parish receives $1,500 for deserving 4-H members.

Joe T. Walters Jr., a 4-H volunteer with more than 19 years of service, is a past chair of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and has received the National 4-H Salute to Excellence Award.

Rufus Walker
Grant Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Rufus Walker was responsible for donating and selling the first land to form Camp Grant Walker in the 1930s. The camp’s name is representative of Walker’s last name and Grant Parish. His land was the site of the very first 4-H Camp in Louisiana in 1922 where the youth camped out in tents.

Willard Rambo was the state senator responsible for legislation that appropriated $75,000 to build Camp Jesse Harrison in Grant Parish for 4-H’ers in the 1950s.

Randall Fletcher serves on the Grant Parish 4-H Foundation and is active in his community. His high standards and insights have been an inspiration to the 4-H staff, youth and adults involved in the Grant Parish 4-H program.

Dr. Charles Miller started his involvement in 4-H as a member in the 1930s. His career as a 4-H agent began in 1948, and he retired in 1993. He remains an avid 4-H supporter.

Carroll Boudreaux serves as president of the Iberia Parish 4-H Foundation and was a board member of the state 4-H Foundation. He has helped obtain endowed funds for scholarships, awards and numerous events and activities. He has worked as a 4-H livestock volunteer, conducts educational clinics and hosts livestock shows.

Ivory Williams committed herself to the 4-H program for 29 years. She is the five-time recipient of the parish’s Outstanding 4-H Leader Award, has served as president of the Iberville Parish 4-H Foundation for three years and is currently on the 4-H Advisory Committee. She has volunteered as an adult leader at 4-H Camp Grant Walker for several years as well as helped prepare youth for contests held at 4-H Short Course.

Cecil Ramagos Sr. became involved in 4-H at the age of nine and remained active long after high school. He volunteered his time, money, energy and expertise to help any 4-H’er in need for more than 30 years. His tireless efforts helped elevate the Iberville 4-H livestock project to one of the highest-quality programs in the state.

Gary Hebert was a 4-H member in the 1940s and held every club office possible. An avid writer, he honed his skills through reading everything that the Extension Service published about writing. He and his wife began a weekly newspaper in 1957, which provided extensive coverage of 4-H news. Gary Hebert won the 4-H Alumni Recognition Award in 1961.

Clara O’Sullivan was a 4-H leader at elementary schools in Jefferson Parish. She served as a teacher representative on the Jefferson 4-H Foundation Board and on the Jefferson 4-H Advisory Council. She had the highest number of youth who stayed in 4-H beyond elementary school. She has received numerous awards from the Jefferson Parish 4-H Foundation.

Robert Hoffpauir, a former 4-H agent in Jefferson Davis Parish, was a leading force in developing the first parish livestock show. He established a recognition program for outstanding 4-H Clubs that continues today.

Denise Turner of Lafayette Parish began volunteering with 4-H when her sons Chad and Cody joined their local 4-H Clubs. She enters data into the enrollment program and pulls and labels hundreds of project books to be delivered to Lafayette 4-H members each year. She received training in the Louisiana 4-H Sportsfishing Program and has served as an angling skills instructor for seven years, providing lessons on casting and knot tying to youth. She also helps plan and coordinate the annual 4-H “Let’s Go Fishing” clinic each year. Under her five-year leadership as the sponsor for the Lafayette 4-H Junior Leadership Program, the program's Junior Leaders portfolio won first place all five years in the state 4-H Records contest. Denise Turner has also served as the chairman of the Lafayette 4-H Youth Development Advisory Council and is currently on the Volunteer and Leadership Development Subcommittee as well as the State Volunteer Leader Initiative Team. Denise Turner has earned high regard from the Lafayette 4-H agents as she volunteers her time two or three days a week every year helping maintain the quality of the parish 4-H program.

George Fawcett became involved with 4-H as a business recruiter representing the SLEMCO utility for the parish livestock show and sale. His work yielded thousands of dollars worth of advertisements. His continuing love for the lamb project and youth is obvious as he provides the less fortunate with opportunities to participate in 4-H.

A.J. Brackin, a former 4-H agent in Lafayette Parish, helped establish the first Junior Leadership program, empowering older 4-H members as project leaders. After retiring, Brackin continued to support 4-H and helped establish the Lafayette Parish 4-H Foundation. Outstanding record book winners are recognized with an award named in his honor.

Dalton Landry began his 4-H career in 1955. He became the county agent of Lafourche Parish in 1973 and trained many of the agents who have made the parish successful in 4-H. He established the Sugar and Seafood contest, was manager of the Lafourche Parish Fair Association and was president of the Lafourche 4-H Foundation Board. Since his retirement, he has assisted in training 4-H University contestants and judges parish 4-H contests.

Loretta Guidry of Lafourche Parish was a teacher and 4-H Club leader at Larose-Cut Off Junior High School for 30 years. Her enthusiasm and guidance inspired many of her club members to win state and national contests. Her club won at Achievement Day in its division 15 years in a row. Mrs. Guidry was a Blue Ribbon winner in the State Adult Leader Records Contest multiple times and also received the Good Provider Award. Additionally, she served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees. Loretta Guidry is regarded as an ideal role model of all 4-H leaders. She retired in 1993 and now devotes her time to helping her grandchildren with 4-H record books, contests and activities.

Linda Lee Franks has had a love of 4-H for more than 50 years, volunteering for three generations of youths. Even though fully employed as a tax preparer and bookkeeper, Franks always finds time to assist with 4-H programs that help youth to develop the qualities necessary to be successful.

Mary Poe promotes 4-H through the air waves and Web page of The Radio Center where she is employed as public service director. She serves on the Lincoln Parish Advisory Council and volunteers as a judge for contests.

Margaret Sorenson began her 4-H career at the age of 10 years old. During her 30-year career as a 4-H Club leader, she received the Leader of the Year Award numerous times and also was awarded the 4-H Alumni Award during Short Course. Margaret also served as an adviser to the State 4-H Fashion Board and was instrumental in starting a 4-H Fashion Board in Livingston Parish in 1995.

Bill Querrey has been a 4-H volunteer for 40 years. As the past president of the parish Farm Bureau and member of Louisiana Angus Association, he supported youth through field days and district and regional livestock shows.

Ann Keene, who has 31 years of volunteer service to 4-H, is a 4-H Foundation past chair. She has received the Louisiana 4-H Alumni Award, 4-H Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award and State Fair of Louisiana Volunteer Leader of the Year award.

John D. Andrews, a county agent with more than 30 years of service, provided minority youth the opportunities to learn valuable life skills as responsible adults and future leaders in their communities. He was especially noted for giving extra help to his 4-H'ers so they could expererience the satisfaction of completing tasks and the achievement of winning.   

Idell Snowden, an extension agent for 34 years, continues to show support to the Natchitoches Parish 4-H youth development program. When she was employed by the LSU AgCenter, she worked closely with African-American youth. Throughout her career she created an atmosphere in the parish 4-H organization that allowed all races to interact comfortably, thus making all youth feel welcome.

Rick Hargis and his family established the Grand Champion Jersey Cow Award at the LSU Spring Livestock Show in 1995 in memory of his son Chad, and they have sponsored the award since then. He has been chairman of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation and actively involved in the Natchitoches Parish 4-H Foundation since it was created, serving as vice president and treasurer. He also was instrumental in providing funds to build a 4-H exhibit building and livestock facility in Natchitoches Parish.

Lan Hoang is the first Asian-American 4-H leader in Orleans Parish. She has added diversity to the existing 4-H program, inspiring Asian-American youth and many others to participate in the 4-H. Ms. Hoang is president of the Orleans 4-H Foundation and serves on the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Kate Kilpatrick dedicated more than 50 years of her life to the 4-H program. Her work and leadership led to a parish 4-H Leader Award, which is presented annually in her memory.

Brenda Bulot has been a 4-H leader for 15 years. She has also served on the Plaquemines Parish Advisory Committee, assisted 4-H agents with 4-H camp and 4-H University for 10 years and provided invaluable service to the Plaquemines Parish 4-H program.

Josephine Cashio André was an honored educator for 25 years who accepted the responsibility of 4-H Club Leader throughout her career. She led her members and officers through leadership training and personal guidance that helped prepare them to become successful, active members of the community today.

Maxine Olinde was a 4-H agent who implemented a variety of programs on home economics, community development and leadership development. She is a National Association of Extension Home Economists lifetime member and was rewarded with their Distinguished Service Award. She was also recognized by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with the Home Economics Alumni Award in recognition of her contribution to 4-H Club work and service to other programs.

Jimbo Thiels began 4-H work as a child, and as an adult he has made a tremendous impact on the 4-H program at the parish and state levels. He served numerous roles on parish-level committees and as president of the Louisiana 4-H Foundation. He currently is chairman of the Central District Livestock Show Committee, secures buyers for the the livestock and is the host of the live TV broadcast of the sale of champions.

Joe Don Powell, a former county agent, devoted 30 years to educational programs on entomology, livestock, plant science and wildlife. With integrity, tirelessness and humor, he encouraged his 4-H’ers to work, to take chances and to discover and believe in their abilities. He was a mentor to new 4-H agents and brought together community leaders, 4-H parents and politicians to organize the Red River Livestock Club, an organization that supports local 4-H projects.

Nancy Nettles has been involved with 4-H for 42 years. She has received the State Alumni Award, the Attorney General’s Livestock Leader Award, the Outstanding Leadership Award and has served on the 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees.

Kathy Colson has been a 4-H volunteer for more than 20 years, engaging youth in dairy projects and contests and teaching school children that milk comes from cows.

Sheila Farmer has been an avid and enthusiastic 4-H volunteer for 22 years, chaperoning, planning workshops, organizing meetings and helping at Achievement Day. Her dedication has changed the lives of many youth.

Marleen Mayfield of St. Bernard Parish has immersed herself in the parish 4-H program since 2003 as a club leader, advisory committee member, and summer 4-H camp volunteer locally and at the state 4-H camp. She assists youth with project work, service projects and leadership training. She also conducts recruiting and training for other adult leaders. Mayfield helped coordinate the 4-H after-school program at Andrew Jackson Elementary and organized one of the first 4-H clubs to return to St. Bernard after Hurricane Katrina. She received a Toyota Prius after Hurricane Katrina from Phoenix Suns basketball player Amar’e Stoudemire and was recognized with a Gold 4-H Club Award in 2003, 2004 and 2005. This award has not been given since Hurricane Katrina.

Bernie Hambrice was a teacher and 4-H leader in St. Bernard Parish for 25 years. She could inspire more than 200 fourth- and fifth-graders to participate in her school's 4-H Clubs. Although retired, she still returns to volunteer and bring smiles to many children’s faces.

Catherine Richard was a 4-H Leader in St. Charles Parish for 55 years. Her students won numerous state and blue ribbon awards at 4-H Short Course at LSU. She served as a chaperone for the Jr. Leaders Camp and for the district wildlife trip.

Donna Beth Karl has been involved with 4-H for 15 years and has volunteered on both the parish and district levels. She is the president of the St. Helena 4-H Educational Foundation, secretary of the Livestock Advisory Committee and leader of the Rolling Hills 4-H Community Club. She began St. Helena’s first poultry club and has served on the Parish Advisory Committee and the 4-H Advisory Committee.

Kermit Coulon served as a 4-H agent, a county agent and the district agent for the Cane Belt Area for many years before retiring. While he was district agent, he had one of the best-attended area 4-H Junior Leadership Conferences in the state. Coulon believes 4-H livestock projects are one of the best ways to get young people to learn and grow to develop leadership potential. Although retired, he still volunteers to assist with 4-H activities and shows.

Carroll Adams started his 4-H career in 1973 and served 4-H for 34 years. He attended 4-H Camp every year and spent much of his time serving as a judge for various contests, including pet shows and the Chick-N-Que Contest. He was the St. John Parish garden project leader, teaching 4-H members to grow healthy plants that they would sell to the community to raise money for their 4-H Club or to help send a child to camp. Carroll Adams was a role model to many black men and donated his time not only on the parish level but also on the regional and state levels.

Lou Ella Lognion started her work with 4-H as a volunteer and a supportive mother and grandmother. She was an organizational club leader at Port Barre High School. Her interests were clothing, food and nutrition.

Wayne Gilmore has been an avid 4-H supporter since 1982, when he helped establish the parish 4-H Foundation; he served as chairman for 25 years. He helped fund numerous 4-H programs and has served on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation board. He also works with livestock and woodworking projects.

Conrad Gauthier
(deceased)
St. Martin Parish
Year Inducted: 2008

Conrad Gauthier was one of the most influential 4-H agents in St. Martin Parish during his 25-year career. A scholarship fund, which has benefitted 98 4-H members, was established in 1977 to recognize his accomplishments.

Charles A. Fuselier is a 4-H alumnus and active supporter of the 4-H program. During his career as sheriff, he seldom encountered a former or current 4-H member in trouble. A parish scholarship was developed in his honor in 2002.

Raphael "Pookie" Rodriguez has been active in community organizations for over 40 years and supports 4-H, volunteering for numerous projects. He was a key figure in establishing the St. Mary Parish Fair Association, which has a strong relationship with the 4-H program. He served on the St. Mary 4-H Advisory Council for eight years and has assisted with 4-H events and activities including cooking, livestock projects, gardening, horticulture projects and more. His involvement with the 4-H program continues as he guides his children and grandchildren in their 4-H work.

Emma Broussard credits 4-H for what she has achieved in life. She became a 4-H member in 1949 and remains active with the organization. She serves as a judge for various parish events and has been a 4-H camp counselor.

After beginning his career as a 4-H agent, Dr. Bobby Fletcher Sr. was instrumental in getting a livestock show facility built in St. Tammany Parish. He later served as a district agent in the southeast area of the state. Dr. Fletcher also served on the Southeast District Livestock Show Committee and on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board. He was honored with the St. Tammany fairground facility being named the Bobby Fletcher Agricultural Center.

Elvadus Fields, a retired extension agent with 44 years of service, collaborated with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture Loan Program for youth livestock projects in northeast Louisiana. His leadership involvement includes the Louisiana Black Farmers and Landowners Association and Delta Livestock Enterprise.

Over the past 20 years, Rena Labat has served in a variety of roles in the 4-H program. She is currently serving on the Louisiana 4-H Foundation Board and the Louisiana 4-H Camp Grant Walker Educational Center Advisory Board and is a coordinator for the 4-H University Fashion Revue Ready-to-Wear Contest. On the regional level, she conducts clothing-construction workshops and assists with the Area 4 Commodity Cookery Contest. Labat serves on the Terrebonne 4-H Advisory Council and works with the parish VFC group to provide scholarships and awards for the parish program.

Carroll Charpentier has been a leader throughout 60 years of involvement with 4-H and a firm believer in what 4-H means in developing youth to the best of their ability. He serves on the advisory committee with an emphasis on poultry at the state level. He is recognized as a poultry expert. He and his family have won many poultry awards over the years.

H.P. Roberts, a retired 4-H agent who served from l954 to 1988, influenced the lives of many 4-H’ers and went out of his way to make each one feel important. Terry Dumas, LSU AgCenter animal sciences specialist and former student of Roberts, describes him as a teacher, leader and “one of us” at the same time.

Nancy W. Marceaux of Vermilion Parish has served as an organizational leader at Kaplan High School for 30 years. For years, Marceaux and her active club hosted two major annual 4-H events, Demonstration Day and Achievement Day. Under her guidance, many Vermilion Parish delegates to Short Course/4-H University were her club members. She often held parishwide workshops to assist not only her 4-H'ers but also those from other clubs. She was named State 4-H Alumni winner in 1999. She has been an active member in the parish 4-H Advisory Committee, serving as chairman for five years. All four of her children were active in 4-H and are now serving as adult volunteers.

Virgie Foreman has been an outstanding volunteer for more than 50 years. She was a charter member of the Vermilion 4-H Foundation and served as its adviser. Her contributions helped establish scholarships for students majoring in agriculture or home economics.

Michelle Mitchell is often referred to as the “4-H Mom” by youth in the Vernon Parish program. She was an active 4-H participant as a child and continues to be an active supporter of the program. She has served in numerous roles from teen organizational leader and coach of 4-H University to state 4-H Day at the Capitol committee member. One of her most noteworthy projects is her work in a hurricane relief service project that gained statewide recognition.

Wayne Williams, Superintendent of Webster Parish schools, has witnessed the effect of the 4-H program on his son, who was president of the State 4-H Executive Board. He welcomes LSU AgCenter staff to school board and principal meetings and grants permission for 4-H Fun Day to be held during a school day.

Louis Mouch Jr. served over 60 years with West Baton Rouge 4-H. He is the Fair Board president and assists the planning and running of the West Baton Rouge Fair and rodeo each year.