Ten Michigan 4-H volunteers honored for 50 years of service in 2025 by MSU Extension
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EmailFor the fifth year, Michigan State University Extension is celebrating ten outstanding volunteers who have given a half-century of service to Michigan 4-H.
For the fifth year, Michigan State University Extension is celebrating ten outstanding volunteers who have given a half-century of service to Michigan 4-H. These individuals have pledged their heads, hearts, hands and service to improving the lives of youth and their communities through Michigan 4-H for the past 50 years.
“Simply put, our Michigan 4-H programs would not be possible without the help of caring volunteers who give their time and talent,” said Quentin Tyler, director of MSU Extension. “MSU Extension is grateful for every volunteer in every program, but these ten individuals deserve special recognition. They have given so much to 4-H over their five decades of service and we offer our heartfelt thanks for all they have given to support 4-H youth.”
Michigan 4-H is the flagship youth development program of MSU Extension, providing young people ages five to 19 with experiential learning opportunities that help develop critical life skills. These experiences are offered through numerous delivery models and countless program areas, thanks in large part to the generous support of thousands of volunteers.
4-H volunteers help lead young people and grow their skills in many venues, including after-school programs, summer camps, short-term special interest groups, year-long clubs, special events, fairs and more. As they provide hands-on guidance and real-world experience, these volunteers also offer young people another crucially important element: a healthy adult role model who helps to prepare them for whatever life brings their way.
“Michigan 4-H is helping to build a generation ready for today, ready for the future, ready for anything,” explained Jodi Schulz, state leader for Michigan 4-H Youth Development and co-director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs. “This is in no small part thanks to the service of our volunteers. Over the course of 50 years, the ten individuals we honor today have helped so many youth become beyond ready. On behalf of Michigan 4-H, we extend our sincere appreciation for their service and dedication to youth in our state.”
The Michigan 4-H 50-year volunteers being recognized in 2025 are:
- Cheryl Barton, Shiawassee County
- Linda Bogue, Cass County
- Lisa Coe, Barry County
- Janel Horrocks-Boehmer, Ingham County
- Sharon Mitchell, St. Joseph County
- Vanessa Powell, Jackson County
- Diane Shepherd, Sanilac County
- Paul Shoup, Mason County
- Bernadette Strahl, Menominee County
- Marla Wedge, Allegan County
In recognition of their service, 50-year volunteers will receive a gift of appreciation from MSU Extension leadership, as well as a personal note of thanks.
“It’s impossible to know the true number of youth served by these volunteers, but we know their impact is tremendous,” said Lisa Bottomley, co-director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs. “We offer them our deepest gratitude and know that the countless youth impacted by these volunteers join us in saluting them for their half-century of service.”
Tribute gifts in honor of any or all of these 4-H volunteers may be made to support 4-H at: https://mi4hfdtn.org/memorial-tribute-gifts/. To learn more about volunteering with Michigan 4-H, visit extension.msu.edu/4H.
