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4-H Hall of Fame volunteers announced, honored at virtual ceremony

The Illinois 4-H Foundation annually recognizes 4-H volunteers for exemplary service to the Illinois 4-H program.  This year, 87 new members received the Foundation Hall of Fame Award, presented during a virtual ceremony Aug 18. 

“These volunteers fully embody what 4-H strives to instill in youth,” says Angie Barnard, Illinois 4-H Foundation executive director. “They are caring, dedicated, generous leaders, and the Illinois 4-H Foundation is extremely proud to be able to provide this honor to thank them for their service to this wonderful organization.

Included in the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame Class of 2020 were Stacie Skelton from Logan County, Jeffrey Sampson from Menard County, and the late Woody Woodruff from Sangamon County.   

Stacie Skelton served many years as Logan County 4-H Foods and Home & Family Show Superintendent.  Show days always ran smoothly with her thoroughness and detail oriented style.  Stacie also assisted as a member of the Logan Expansion & Review Committee and the Unit 4-H Records Revisions committee.    Logan County is fortunate to have volunteers like Stacie who encourage 4-H members and assist in promoting and improving a quality 4-H program.

Jeffrey Sampson is a strong supporter of youth and events in the livestock area, having served on the Menard County 4-H Livestock Committee for 16 years and assisted with the Beef Weigh-in and Livestock Sale each year.  Jeff is someone you can count on and is appreciated for his dedication to Menard County 4-H!.  

Robert (Woody) Woodruff’s life exemplified the 4-H Motto.  Woody put his heart into “Making the Best Better” first as a Peace Corps volunteer in Mauritania, Africa, followed by 2 ½ years as a 4-H Program Coordinator, and then six years as a 4-H Club Leader, Show Superintendent, and Judge.  We are thankful Woody chose to invest his time and talents into the 4-H program. 

The Illinois 4-H Foundation established the statewide Hall of Fame in 2005 to honor and celebrate extraordinary 4-H alumni, volunteers, and former 4-H staff. Each inductee received a commemorative Hall of Fame medallion.

“The Foundation provides avenues to continue to support the work of Illinois 4-H by accepting financial gifts specifically directed to the program you wish to support,” Barnard said. “Estate planning services are available to those wishing to continue their 4-H legacy.”  To learn more, visit: 4hfoundation.illinois.edu