Freeport, Ill. -  The University of Illinois Extension has announced that Julie Miller is the 2023 4-H Hall of Fame Award recipient for Stephenson County. Julie is a 28-year volunteer in Stephenson County and was recently honored by Illinois 4-H for her selfless dedication to the University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development program.

As a child, Julie grew up in a 4-H family and was a 10-year 4-H member. Her 4-H career began in the Farming Fools 4-H Club of Davis, Illinois, and then moved on to the Davis Rockets 4-H Club. After high school, Julie knew that she wanted to give back to the program that had such a positive effect on shaping who she was, so she stepped into the leadership role of the Davis Rockets 4-H club for 15 years. Julie continues to help as a project leader in the Davis Rockets club today, along with being the Stephenson County Extension Office Support Assistant.  Julie and her husband, John have raised 3 children in the 4-H program and now enjoy watching their grandchildren participate in the Davis Rockets 4-H Club events and Stephenson County 4-H shows.

“Julie loves to share her knowledge of animal science in both dairy and goats with youth along with her passion for the outdoors and our natural resources,” says Brenda Heimann, Stephenson County Program Coordinator.  “In the office, Julie is always willing to help get materials ready for programs, events, and especially the 4-H shows.  Julie is always willing to help wherever she is needed and her attention to detail is remarkable!”

“We are so fortunate to be able to have our outstanding volunteers recognized at the state level. Julie’s long history with 4-H and her love of working with youth has made her a valuable asset to the 4-H program in Stephenson County for many, many years,” stated Margaret Larson, Extension Director for Jo Daviess, Stephenson, and Winnebago Counties.

Illinois 4-H programs in Stephenson County reach nearly 700 youth each year through 4-H clubs, camps, educational programs, and workshops held in communities, schools, parks, and homes. Volunteers, like Julie, fill key leadership and mentoring roles that provide positive youth development for our youth here in Stephenson County.