Illinois 4-H proudly honors exceptional alumni, volunteers, and former staff members who have made a lasting impact on their communities and the 4-H program. During the 2025 Illinois State Fair, two outstanding individuals from Jo Daviess County were recognized for their dedication and achievements. “I love showing my appreciation to the individuals in our program and recognizing them for their efforts,” says Angela Miller, 4-H Program Coordinator. “They matter! It’s important they realize the impact they have on our members and how grateful we are.”
Chase Dittmar: 2025 Illinois 4-H Young Alumni Award Recipient
Chase Dittmar received the 2025 Illinois 4-H Young Alumni Award. A Jo Daviess County 4-H alum and nine-year member, Chase exemplifies the values of honesty, hard work, and a commitment to making a positive impact. His journey began with a 4-H beekeeping workshop that sparked a passion for apiculture and environmental stewardship. Encouraged by his parents and mentors, Chase joined the 4-H Beekeeping Club, purchased his own hive, and began sharing his knowledge through a YouTube channel dedicated to beekeeping education. At just 21 years old, he is the founder, owner, and operator of Dry Creek Beekeeping, an agritourism business that offers immersive experiences including tours, honey tastings, classes, and a “boot camp” for aspiring beekeepers. His achievements span multiple disciplines—he is a wildlife enthusiast, artist, and scientist. Academically, Chase earned the prestigious Williston Jones Scholarship at Coe College for his environmental impact through beekeeping and was named FFA Agricultural Communications State Champion, showcasing his leadership and communication skills. “Chase’s journey as a Jo Daviess County 4-H member is marked by impressive accomplishments, leadership roles, and active participation in a wide range of projects and events,” says Miller. “I hope Chase’s story serves as an inspiration to current and future members.”
Debra Girot: 2025 Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame Inductee
The 2025 4-H year marks a milestone for Debra Girot, who was inducted into the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame in recognition of her more than 17 years of service as a 4-H leader. Her commitment has left an unforgettable mark on the Jo Daviess County 4-H program. Debra’s 4-H journey is deeply rooted in family tradition. Her father was a 4-H member, she grew up in 4-H, and she raised her four children in the program. As a youth, Debra explored a wide range of projects and always enjoyed 4-H. As a parent, she wanted to share that love with her family. She encouraged her children to be active participants, guiding them through projects, animal care, record keeping, financial management, and leadership roles. Through 4-H, they gained invaluable life skills such as responsibility, public speaking, and career readiness. Her involvement spans countless roles—food stand coordinator, club leader, community service organizer, parent, fundraiser, and steadfast supporter. One of her club’s most impactful projects is the creation and maintenance of a community garden in Elizabeth. Club members prepare the soil, plant, harvest, and donate the produce each year, reinforcing the values of service and sustainability. “Debra and her family truly represent the essence of 4-H,” says Miller. “Their dedication, kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering support are why 4-H has such deep roots and a strong community of supporters. We are proud to have Debra as part of Jo Daviess County 4-H.”
For more information about 4-H or how to become a volunteer, contact the Jo Daviess County Extension office at (815) 858-2273.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.