Tributes to 100 West Virginians who dedicated their skills to helping young people highlighted the dinner program that officially opened the West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame on Saturday, May 31, at WVU Jackson’s Mill Center for Lifelong Learning and State 4-H Camp, Weston.

The large inaugural class commemorated both the official opening of the hall of fame and the conclusion West Virginia’s observance of 4-H’s national centennial. Last year’s observance included an invitation to 4-H members and supporters in each of the state’s 55 counties to nominate candidates for the hall’s inaugural class.

West Virginia University created the state 4-H Hall of Fame to honor 4-H members, leaders, volunteers and donors who have served West Virginia’s youth by working with the WVU Extension Service to build a strong community-based 4-H program.

"Through the new West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the contributions of volunteers and educators who have helped make 4-H the premier youth development program of West Virginia University and WVU Extension Service," said Larry Cote, WVU associate provost for Extension and Public Service. "The inductees’ contributions to families and rural communities provide a foundation that is supporting us as we build leadership and opportunities for this new century."

In 2002, the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents inaugurated the National 4-H Hall of Fame. The West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame is an independent institution. Individuals may be honored by both.

The WVU Extension Service, the primary outreach arm of West Virginia University, conducts 4-H and other educational programs in each of the state’s 55 counties. The 4-H program opens doors to fun and friends for youths while building their community service and leadership skills.

Each year, more than 56,000 children and teens are involved in 4-H youth activities, under the guidance of more than 7,200 adult volunteers who keep 4-H programs successful.

For more information about the West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame, contact: