Welcome to Tennessee 4-H Alumni!

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. is a growing group of former 4-H members, consisting of those who are, have been, or wish to be involved in Tennessee's great 4-H youth development program.

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization chartered under the laws of the State of Tennessee and approved by the Internal Revenue Service. Members promote and support 4-H opportunities locally and on a state-wide basis. The purposes of the organization include contributing to Tennessee 4-H programs, providing new experiences in 4-H and providing opportunities to renew friendships or make new friends.

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. held its first organizational meeting in Nashville, Tennessee on March 15, 1975. Since then, hundreds have joined the organization to promote and support Tennessee 4-H. This year, Alumni celebrates its 32nd year.

If you are interested in promoting 4-H in Tennessee, consider joining Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc.

Alumni Membership...

• helps to maintain contact with others who value 4-H youth development and its positive impact on Tennessee youth, families and communities
• provides the opportunity to "stay in the loop" where 4-H programs and directions are concerned
• offers a way to give back time, energy and money to an educational program that made a positive difference in your life

All active members are entitled to vote, hold office, and be serviced by the benefits of the statewide organization.

Become an Alumni Member...

Becoming a member of Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. is simple and can be completed in a matter of minutes. First, fill out and submit the following application. Then use the Google Checkout process below to pay your membership dues or mail a check to the address below.

Pay Your Membership Dues...

You can pay your membership dues quickly and securely using Google checkout. Just select one of the following options and click the Google Checkout button to pay with your credit or debit card. Google accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

To pay by check, please mail your payment to:

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc.
P. O. Box 110134
Nashville, TN 37222-0134

All payments to Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. are tax-deductible contributions.

Register as a 4-H Friend...

Please take a moment to register yourself as a 4-H alumnus. Thank you!

Find 4-H Friends...

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. is pleased to provide this service to former 4-H members and friends. You can re-establish your connections with 4-H friends by using the 4-H Friends feature.

Last Name	First Name	County	Graduation	E-mail
Adams	Doug	Putnam	1998
Archer	Larry E.	Washington	1964
Ashmore	Teresa	Gibson	1978
Atkinson	J. D.	Fentress	1961
Atwood	Kathy	Wilson	1972
Austin	Todd	Macon	1997
Bailey	Aimee	Crockett	1991
Baker	Giovonnt'e	Madison	2007
Birdsong	Benny	Giles	1961
Bowling	Matthew	Anderson	1988
Bowling	Patricia	Rutherford	1965
Bradley	Donna	Humphreys	1981
Brasfield	Carla	Crockett	1981
Bray	Wesley	Clay	1994
Brooks	Kathy	Robertson	1970
Brown	David	Morgan	2005
Brown	Joel	Polk	1980
Cherry	Teresa	Clay	1980
Clark	Pat	Putnam	1969
Clarkson	Allison	Williamson	2003
Cole	Tamira	Madison	2002
Corbin	Jean	Robertson	1964
Cordell	Janet	Rutherford	1976
Crowe	Justin	McNairy	1998
Daniel	Melissa	Wayne	2002
Deckard	Avis June	Macon	1951
Dickson	Anna	McNairy	1952
Doles	David	Hardeman	1989
Donaldson	Joseph	Clay	1991
Eddins	Holly	Madison	1987
Ellis-Ashburn	Hope	Bledsoe	1989
Estes	Jerry	Monroe	1969
Flynn	Tammy	Macon	1989
Flynn	Tammy	Macon	1989
Foster	Donna	Bedford	1980
Franklin	Jared	Franklin	1993
Garvin	Sally	Davidson	1953
Gateley	Mark	Stewart	1977
Gibson	Sharon	Decatur	1976
Glover	Becky	Giles	1987
Glover	Varina	Dyer	1997
Goggans	Nathaniel	Hamilton	1995
Goins	Trina	Cannon	1991
Gourley	Barbara	Rutherford	1972
Gourley	Linda Carol	Rutherford	1976
Hale	Kim	DeKalb	1976
Hale	Sam	Warren	1956
Hall	Susie	Williamson	1989
Hamilton	Patrick	Hamblen	1996
Harrison	Keith	Wilson	1980
Henderson	Ruth	Loudon	1969
Henry	Carol	Warren, IA	1973
Henry	David	Meigs	1991
Hensley	Adam	Loudon	2003
Hensley	Ryan	Loudon	2005
Hickey	Carolynn	Loudon	1974
Hicks	Tim	Decatur	1977
Hill	Lindsay	Madison	2007
Hill	Lindsay	Madison	2007
Holland	Rob	Giles	1988
Hopper	Vicki	Henderson	1986
Horton	Linda Diane	Madison	1973
Hubbard	Dusti	Cumberland	1995
Huffine	Joe	Washington	1982
Jesse	Catherine	Union	1979
Jessee	Camille	Union	1980
Lake	Cathy	Hardeman	1973
Lake	Tammy	Hardeman	1975
Ledbetter	Becky	Bedford	1969
Lemley	Marissa	Robertson	1999
Leonard	Christian	Hamilton	1984
Loftis	Jimmie	Putnam	1962
Louder	Emily	Wilson	1992
Mantooth	Lori Jean	Robertson	1994
Marshall	Kayla	Trousdale	2005
Martin	Paul	Bedford	1988
Mayfield	Kelly	Tipton	1987
McCreary	Gentry	Campbell	1997
McCroy	Mary	Polk	1965
Meadows	Robert	Clay	1995
Meeks	Johannah	Grundy	1982
Miles	Murray	Rutherford	1948
Miller	Nathan	Clay	1995
Miller	Shirley	Rutherford	1965
Miller	Shirley	Rutherford	1965
Mills	Julie	Putnam	1988
Mincy	Virgil	McMinn	1952
Mitchell	Nikki	Dickson	2000
Morelock	Ginger	Greene	1993
Mullinix	Mandy	Fentress	1994
Needham	Greg	Union	1981
Nelms	Ben	Marshall	1954
O'Brien	Billy	Greene	1955
Owen	Charles	Monroe	1980
Page	Grace	Dyer	1997
Page	Melody	Shelby	2002
Parks	Steve	Coffee	1960
Patterson	Jerri Lynn	Henderson	1993
Patton	Dusti	Cumberland	1995
Penland	Alison	Unicoi	1989
Pess	Marjorie	Willamson	2007
Polston	Whitney	Macon	1995
Porter	Susan	Anderson and Rhea	1975
Powell	Ben	Wilson	1955
Poyner	Brenda	Williamson	1975
Poyner	Brenda	Williamson	1975
Ray	Jessica	Trousdale	2004
Read	William	Giles	1988
Reeves	Kane	Madison	2007
Rice	Maggie	Dickson	1998
Richardson	Alice Ann	Crockett	1967
Richardson	Windie	Carroll	1992
Ries	Johannah	Grundy	1982
Riley	Retta	Crockett	2005
Roberson	Patrick	Bledsoe	1984
Roberts	Rhonda	Marion	1997
Robertson	Aaron	Dickson	1996
Robeson	Ronald	Cocke	1959
Royal	Mary	Bledsoe	1978
Rucker	Nancy	Hamilton	1986
Rush	Mary Ann	Hamblen	1985
Sanders	Ben	Bradley	1999
Sanders	Jack	Bradley	1965
Scott	Kassi	Clay	2003
Settles	Sheila	Gibson	1979
Shelby	Starla	Hardin	1986
Sitzlar	Christian	Roane	1999
Smalling	Miriam	Blount	1982
Smith	Laurel	Humphreys	1998
Smith	Sally	Davidson	1953
Steelman	Ray	Moore	1977
Stovall	Janice	Giles	1986
Strong	Paulette	Clay	1974
Sutton	Stephen	Cocke	1969
Taylor	Carrie	Carter	1991
Taylor	Violet	Campbell	1996
Thurman	Jessica	Bradley	2002
Tolbert	Tara	DeKalb	2004
Tucker	Marty	Cannon	1997
Upton	Roy	Rutherford	1965
Uzzell	Angela	Maury	1993
Vincil	Robert	Hawkins	1978
Whitaker	Ashley	Rutherford	1997
Whitaker	Beau	Rutherford	1995
Whitaker	Boone	Rutherford	1999
Whitaker	David	Sullivan	1964
Willsi	Jan	Cumberland	1983
Woods	Marcus	Hardeman	1995
Wright	Zac	Weakley	1998
Ziegler	Alishea	Meigs	2004

TN 4-H Stories

• Todd Austin is a mortgage loan originator working in Gallatin. He was a Macon County 4-H member, where he excelled in 4-H club work.

  Read Todd's story...

  I would never have had a 4-H story had my mother, Linda Austin, not MADE me participate in 4-H in 4th grade. I now see it as one of those things my mother knew was good for me, but I had to realize for myself -- like eating broccoli and playing the piano. I can remember how those first years started, her coaxing me along, doing most of the work on my projects herself, laboring on posters and speeches. And throughout the rest of my competitive years in 4-H, my mom worked to help me succeed. I eventually enjoyed everything 4-H had to offer and participating was no longer a chore. My mom pushed me to be my best, even if “my best” wasn't enough to be “the best” in a particular event or competition. Mom continues as a 4-H volunteer in many projects and activities, and also is a coach to her grandchildren who are just beginning to realize the beauty of this club. So I had to start my story by recognizing its foundation - the best person I've ever met, my mom.

  My memories of 4-H are numerous, and I think of them often and fondly. Besides my mother, the next greatest influence on my 4-H life was Steve Walker, extension leader in Macon County. His reputation around the state speaks for itself, and I was lucky that his wife and my mom were best friends and business partners. Steve polished my skills in all my projects, which included personal development, leadership, citizenship, public speaking, and sheep. I helped his family show their flock of sheep and still feel guilty that I had a district Grand Champion market lamb instead of his daughter, Christi. Along with baseball and church revivals, sheep shows kept my summers interesting and fun.

  I'll skip forward to when my 4-H story peaked, and unfortunately, it is the same time that most 4-Hers begin to drop out of the club. My high school 4-H experiences were by far the single most influential years of my life. I was fortunate to compete and win my project at the state level three times, twice in personal development and once in public speaking. Winning the Senior High level II in personal development won me a trip to National 4-H Congress in Memphis. However, I learned more from the times that I lost than from those I won. That is what 4-H did for me - I learned that winning is a really rewarding and gratifying experience, but losing gracefully and realizing that the experience was worth more than the reward is what life is all about.

  I suppose my greatest achievement was being the 1996 4-H Congress Governor. It allowed me to learn the governmental and leadership process, and more importantly just how much preparation goes into planning and organizing a huge event like Congress. It allowed me to meet then-Governor Don Sundquist, meteorologist Lelan Statom, and many other notable people.

  After winning Governor, I set my sights upon State Council President. Running at State Roundup, I wound up as the vice-president, getting beaten by one of the most impressive young people I've ever met, Laura Lefler. Not only did I lose to her, I knew without a doubt that she was more capable and more deserving to be the head of State Council than I. Those experiences are what I take more than anything else from my 4-H career. 4-H Roundup also allowed me to meet one of my favorite athletes -- Peyton Manning.

  There have been so many people to influence my life through 4-H. The state leaders, Ben Powell and Martha Jo Tolley, were so kind and encouraging and very good role models for all 4-H'ers. As I graduated high school, I was fortunate enough to be asked to serve on the boards of the Tennessee 4-H Foundation and the Tennessee 4-H Alumni Foundation. To see people like June Thompson, who has dedicated her life to being a 4-H ambassador, makes me want to strive to be a good person and stay active with such a wonderful entity. My 4-H influences are too plentiful to name each one, but the lessons I carry on a daily basis from what 4-H has taught me lead my steps toward a beautiful life.

• Allison Clarkson is a student at the University of Tennessee at Martin. She was an active member of Williamson County's 4-H program.

  Read Allison's story...

  I can't say that I remember the first 4-H event I went to because, I was only two weeks old when my mom, Brenda Clarkson, took me to our county sheep show. I guess you could say I was hooked from then on. In fourth grade I was so shy, but my mom forced me to give a speech. Thank goodness she did, because I would not be where I am if she had not made me.

  That summer I started showing sheep. My first ewe was Bunny and Granddaddy taught me everything he knew about taking care of her. Mr. Ben Powell is a wonderful man and he means so much to everyone in the sheep project. After the long week at State Sheep Expo it was a joy to hear his voice for the awards. A whole summer of work was riding on the results written on those cards. Winning skillathon and premier exhibitor competitions meant so much to me, because I knew that my hard work had paid off.

  Throughout my 4-H career I tried many things: raising chickens, showing rabbits, bug collections, showing sheep, electric demonstrations that didn't work, and anything else I had time for. My most memorable 4-H trip would have to be our county exchange trip to New Hampshire. The family I stayed with had no interior doors. Talk about adapting to new situations!!! However, the one thing that sticks out the most about 4-H was my time in All Stars. I started out as a Brave and told myself that one day I would be Big Chief. Those days of district and state council meetings were long but full of good memories.

  4-H has not only influenced my past, but also my college career. I am serving as president of UT Martin's Collegiate 4-H Chapter and one of my roommates is Melissa Daniel. We met at State Congress and helped each other run for offices. Little did we know that we had started a new, enduring friendship. We later served on District and State All Star Council together. If not for 4-H and All Stars, we would have never met and would not be best friends. That is what 4-H is all about. Making lasting memories and meeting life long friends!!

• Tamira Cole is a former Tennessee 4-H Foundation Board Member and a current junior at Austin Peay University.

  Read Tamira's story...

  I remember it like it was yesterday. The 2002 Tennessee 4-H State Roundup. It was a long time coming. Nine years as a Madison County 4-H'er and the friends, fun memories of previous Roundups, State Congress, national trips, District All Star and State Council members were about to come to a close. For three years I constantly chased the dream of being a state winner but each time I came up short.

  Throughout my 4-H career, I was always guided by my loving 4-H agent Sharon Tubbs, my mother Bonita, and of course county staff and adult volunteer leaders, one in which.....impacted the end of my active 4-H career drastically. Mrs. Carol McBride had been a 4-H'er and county agent for several years. Her three sons were in 4-H and her husband Mark had passed on the FFA tradition as well. I, along with her oldest son Matthew, pursued two dreams, those of being state/national officers of 4-H and FFA. Except, my other organization was HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America).

  That year, Mrs. McBride decided to work personally with me to give my recordbook that edge that it needed and even much more important.......challenging me to look deep inside of myself to really tell "my 4-H story." On the second day of Roundup (competition day), I got up and was ready to go. I had nothing to lose, I kept saying to myself. Whatever the outcome what God has given me through my experiences in 4-H is amazing and can't be made through a 4-H tray or trip to Congress.

  Still, my heart wondered and I wanted to know if I would ever reach National 4-H Congress. "Tamira, you're next," said Mrs. McBride. She was our adult volunteer leader for the Personal Development project. I went in to the interview and cried!!!!!!!!! All of a sudden, the judges asked me what was my most memorable 4-H experience and in 10 seconds 9 years flooded my mind and my heart. See, 4-H for me was an opportunity to meet new people, find life long friends, travel, learn, develop leadership and public speaking skills, find a family and most importantly...........grow as an individual with unique talents. Without 4-H, I don't think I would had ever became as confident as I am now, or even worse, I would never have crossed paths with all of these amazing people with stories to tell all across the state and country.

  I walked out of the interview with a smile and with the thought of making it to Roundup again as a blessing. "How did it go?" said Mrs. McBride. "Well, I cried," I said wiping away crocodile tears. "Listen, Tamira whether you are the winner tonight or not, just think of all the things you've gotten to experience in 4-H. Look at yourself, look at how 4-H has influenced you," Mrs. McBride said. "You're right!" I quickly wished the other competitors good luck and told them not to worry.

  Later that night I dressed up for my final Roundup Awards Banquet as an active member. I took some pictures and headed to the Elam Center. The food was great and everyone looked outstanding but still my stomach had a terrible feeling of knots and turns. "You're going to win Tamira, I feel it," said Keisha Martin one of my close friends. "No, I doubt it, but I think you will win," I said with a chuckle trying to keep my mind off of the task at hand.

  "Good luck," I whispered. "You too!" said Keisha. "Oh no," I thought -- it was time for Personal Development. As I walked on stage I could feel the light beaming on my round little head and my stomach stuffed from eating. "I don't know why I selected a white pageant gown to wear," I thought to myself. "And the Level I Winner”, said Steve Sutton “is Brittney McGruder.” “Yeah!” I thought. Brittney and I were very close because we were in the same District and roomed together at Congress.

  It seemed like the longest five minutes of my 4-H career, just standing there ready for one of the other four finalists' name to be called out. “And the Level II Winner is...... Tamira Cole, Madison County.” “Oh my goodness!” I thought. I just stopped, I cried and couldn't even hold the tray! Wow! That moment was one of the happiest moments of my life. It wasn't because of reaching a goal, but the journey involved. 4-H has taught me so much. The things that I have learned have made me a better person, leader, community volunteer, daughter and a young person ready to achieve her dreams. I don't know what my life would be like without 4-H.

  I am so thankful and proud to be a 4-H alumnus. Now, today at 20, I want to pass along my story to help motivate and encourage dozens of other young people. “Let 4-H impact your life,” is my message. Let it give you years of memories day by day -- memories that will last a life time.

• Justin Crowe is a 4-H agent in Davidson County.

  Read Justin's story...

  I remember it like it was yesterday. I was in the 4th grade at Bethel Springs Elementary School. My teacher told us that we were going to be involved in a program called 4-H. This lady, whom I had never seen, came in and started telling us all about projects, speeches and all of this other “educational” stuff that was going to help us. Little did I know that that lady and that program were going to change my life forever.

  As time progressed I became more involved in this program called 4-H. Imagine being the only boy baking cookies or biscuits for your club meeting. Imagine being the only person who prepared a demonstration some months. Whew, was I ever in for a long road ahead!

  Then came that moment: 4-H Camp. The week which I thought would never arrive soon did; and upon arrival at the County Extension Office I became mortified. I did not want to leave my mother. I certainly did not want to go off with this 4-H lady who scared me to death. My mother informed me (as many of my 4-H members' parents do now) that she and my dad had paid the money and I was going. I cried from the time we left Selmer until the time we made it to Milan. I cried everyday wanting desperately for Mrs. Casey to get frustrated and call my parents. But did she? Oh, no!

  As the years went by and as camp became more of a dream than a nightmare I began to realize that this was what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wanted to be a 4-H Agent (and be half as good as my 4-H Agent.)

  I never was a state winner. I never became State Council President or State Big Chief. However, the life lessons I learned from being in 4-H have made more of an impact on my life than I could begin to express in words.

  4-H isn't about winning contests or getting to bang a gavel. It's about friendships, leadership building, understanding yourself and others. 4-H is not about blue ribbons and silver trays. It goes far beyond that. It's about finding the person inside of you and sharing that person with those around you

  4-H did much more for me than help me overcome my homesickness 15 years ago at 4-H camp. It helped me find who I was and what I did well. My 4-H Agent, Rita Casey, taught me about life and about understanding shortcomings and celebrating strengths (though, at the time, I just thought she yelled at me a lot.)

  I became a 4-H Extension Agent for two reasons: 1) I wanted to give back a little of what 4-H had given to me. I wanted to help those young people who may not have anyone else whom they can call their teacher or their friend. 2) I saw the dedication my 4-H Agent had for the program and to me. I wanted to have that so bad I could taste it.

  For those reading this who were 4-H members many years ago, who are Extension Agents or who are still in 4-H I hope these words mean something to you. I hope that someday very soon you look back on your 4-H career and you smile. I hope you think about that special someone who helped you along the way. I hope you think about that time you got 2nd place in project competition and missed out on going to National 4-H Congress. Think about being runner-up for Senior Representative. Have we not learned from those things? Has it not helped us be a better person? I might have shed a few tears immediately after the fact but now my heart is swelling with pride as I look back at what I did accomplish. I made the best better.

• Melissa Daniel is a UT Martin student and former 4-H Foundation Board of Directors member.

  Read Melissa's story...

  "Mom, Dad, I’m going to run for 4-H Governor next year at Congress," I proudly announced after returning from Congress as a public speaking delegate. My parents encouraged me to run for office, but told me to not be disappointed if I did not win. After all, I was just a shy little girl from Wayne County. For months I prepared to run for Governor making signs, printing stickers, and writing speeches. Finally, one other delegate and I from Wayne County headed to Nashville with high hopes and expectations.

  I made it through district elections only to find that the most attractive guy in 4-H was running against me from the Cumberland District. I was so scared! But thankfully had two incredible roommates -- Tara Berry and Allison Clarkson -- who supported me and helped me throughout my campaign.

  The election came down to Brant Hall and me. I was sure he had won, but then Chris Vessell announced me as the 2000-2001 State 4-H Congress Governor. I was in shock and in tears. As I walked off the stage, Mrs. Mary Jo Brinkmann gave me a hug and told me how proud she was of me. I will never forget that moment. It was then I realized that I could do anything as long as I believed in myself.

  Serving as Congress Governor and State All Star Scribe were great experiences, but not the highlight of my 4-H career. There is not just one moment in 4-H that stands out in my head the most. Rather, it was the many moments of challenging myself to halter break a steer, overcoming my fear to speak in public, realizing that I could be a leader and make a difference, and making friends and meeting people who will forever be in my heart. The 4-H staff inspired me to make the most of every opportunity and are still role models in my life. If I am having a bad day, it never fails that Cliff Howard, Russell Hale, or Michael Coley will just happen to call and lift my spirits. And my Congress roommate, Allison Clarkson, is my best friend who I can count on for anything.

  4-H to me is about learning who you are, what you want to do with you life, and meeting people who serve as inspiration to succeed in wherever you life takes you. 4-H has contributed greatly to the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for all 4-H has given me.

• Julie Mills Galloway is Director/Advisor - Division of Basic Business, Tennessee Tech University and a former president of Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc.

  Read Julie's story...

  You'd think this story would be easy to write; after all, it's my 4-H story. I experienced it. It's about me. I've come to realize, though, that this is one of the hardest stories to accurately convey, because it continues to grow and change with me.

  My 4-H story has so many different chapters: young 4-Her, junior high and senior 4-Her, friends, agents and leaders, camp, college 4-H, “adult” leader (still use that term loosely in reference to myself), 4-H Alumni and Foundation involvement, and more. I could run down my list of accomplishments...State Congress Governor, state council member, National Winner in Saftey, Presidential Tray finalist, honor club and All-Star member, Vol State award. These experiences were blessings in my life and have certainly shaped who I am.

  This story also has so many characters ...my agents, Scott Chadwell and Donna Clouse, and others who adopted me....Margaret Pile, Carolyn Fox, Teresa Goddard, Bill Adcock and the rest of the “cowboy crew”, and so many others. When I was in 4-H, I took their presence and support for granted. Now, with a family of my own, I more fully appreciate the sacrifices they made in miles on their cars, time away from their families, listening to music they really didn't like...just so we could experience what 4-H had to offer.

  I met people (like Charlie Daniels!), saw places (Washington, Chicago), and experienced things (addressed 400+ at Congress and survived!) in ways that only 4-H could have provided. And I did it all with a group of people who not only taught but truly believed that each one of us was valuable, regardless of family name, income, or the number of awards we won. In that atmosphere of support, I learned how to win and, more importantly, how to lose, without feeling I was better or worse than the one beside me. 4-H is one of the few organizations that continue to teach that lesson.

  "Learning by Doing" is such an accurate statement for 4-H. Yes, I learned so much in project work and contests. But I also learned the value of appreciation, of encouragement, of giving. 4-H gave me my first lessons in professionalism, which I apply every day in my job now. Through 4-H, I not only learned to speak before groups of people and convey information effectively, but also to listen to the one sitting with me, which is imperative to me now as a college academic advisor. I also learned the value of a name...and how to accurately spell it...after I misspelled Gov. Ned McWherter's name as I autographed (he wanted MY autograph - imagine!) in the first copy of “4-H: A Tennessee Tradition.” He was gracious enough not to point out my mistake.

  A few weeks ago, I attended the senior luncheon at Round-up in Knoxville. My first thought was...can't believe it's been 16 years since I was in their shoes. My second thought was...it all still feels the same. That “feeling” is the positive environment where young people are encouraged to do their best, set goals, work and play, and acquire the skills to be productive citizens. I am proud to be a product of 4-H, and I continue to look forward to the next chapter of my story....

• Mark Gateley is the executive director of the Tennessee 4-H Foundation.

  Read Mark's story...

  My 4-H experience began at Indian Mound Elementary School in Stewart County, Tennessee in 1970. I was in the 5th grade and Mr. Jesse Franklin was my 4-H agent. Mr. Franklin was very persuasive. He talked me into giving a speech and I ended up at the county contest. I'll never forget how scared I was. The speeches were being given in the courtroom of the Stewart County Courthouse, which was a very intimidating place -- after all, I had seen Perry Mason on TV!

  My mother went with me to the speech contest. As we waited for my turn to speak, my nervousness sent me out of the room about four times. Mama thought I was going to pass out. Finally, it was my turn to speak. I got up and words came out is about all I remember. I finished in last place, but the experience was priceless.

  After my speech, Mr. Franklin told me how great a job I had done and how proud of me he was. With his encouragement, I kept giving speeches. I was never to place first in a speech contest, but the confidence I gained has served me well in later life.

  Mr. Franklin passed away many years ago, and I was never really able to thank him for what he did for me. I have spent my career of 20 plus years in youth education (FFA and 4-H). If I can't pay Mr. Franklin back, I can at least pass on what he did for me to others.

• Patrick Hamilton is a former active member from Hamblen County and is currently serving as an assistant to Governor Phil Bredesen.

  Read Patrick's story...

  All throughout my 4-H career I had three goals. They included being a national winner in the dog project, receiving Vol State recognition at 4-H Roundup, and being elected State All Star Big Chief.

  In 1995 I won state in the Level II Dog project and received a trip to National 4-H Congress. They no longer were doing national competitions, so I figured I got as close as possible to accomplishing my first goal. That same year I was recognized as a recipient of the Vol State award at 4-H Roundup. Goal two accomplished!

  However, I remember the election for State All Star Big Chief like it was yesterday! I was so nervous standing by campfire waiting to see who would be elected. I knew I had won. I was sure of it. Imagine my surprise when I was not “tapped in” as the new State Big Chief. I was devastated.

  The outgoing Big Chief, Robert "Turtle" Meadows, talked to me for well over an hour after that campfire. He helped me to realize that sometimes we learn more about ourselves and the world around us when we loose. That moment was truly an epiphany!

  That single loss helped me to take on a new perspective. I am so thankful for that experience and the way it literally changed my life. The many friends that I met during my 4-H tenure are still some of my closest. 4-H truly helps in the development of great youth!

• Mary Mantooth is an Extension program assistant in Robertson County and 4-H volunteer.

  Read Mary's story...

  My 4-H story actually begins as a three year old. My family moved to Polk County where my dad was Extension agent. I attended county meetings and even local meetings before I began school. I even rode to Congress one year. The school club met the day after my 9th birthday and I became an official 4-H member!

  I participated in every event/activity available throughout the years. I remember the first public speaking contest. It was held in the courtroom (which was very large and intimidating to a 4th grader). I started my speech on Abraham Lincoln and after about 3 sentences forgot what I was doing. A senior 4-H member (Nancy McClure) was sitting on the front row and she calmed me down and got me to start over. That is one of the most memorable events for me and it set me on the road to speaking. I can truthfully say I am comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and it all goes back to that one night in February.

  The most fun in 4-H came during camp. We camped at Woodlee and it holds a special place in my heart. The cold showers, swimming in the river and later pulling off the leeches, “walking” to the cabin after the square dances, the cave (not my favorite place, but memorable), family style meals, and the letters from new friends after arriving home are all happy memories. When Woodlee was closed and our county was sent to Crossville, we did not know what to expect. When the bus pulled up, we decided we were not getting off the bus. Camp was not supposed to have pavement and painted buildings. We finally did unload and discovered more fun in different surroundings.

  Because of the wonderful memories of camping as a 4-H'er, I am still going to camp as an adult volunteer. Helping the new campers to adjust and encouraging all to participate in new activities is truly rewarding. I guess some day I will be told I am too old for camp, but until then I plan to continue to attend.

  Memories are still being made as I took my first plane ride as an adult on a 4-H trip. I am currently serving as Chairman of the State Committee of Volunteer Leaders. I am enjoying working with the State Council members. They reinforce that there are lots of good, contributing young people in society and 4-H is the basis for many of them.

  Hopefully, this wonderful organization will be around for another 100 years or more.

• Virgil Mincy is a retired logistics professional who credits his success to 4-H.

  Read Virgil's story...

  My family lost all their earthly possessions in the Great Depression; the year I was born, all we had was auctioned off on the steps of the Roane County Courthouse. Several years of tough times followed, as I grew up in McMinn County. By circumstance and luck, I was "selected" in 1948 to become President of our "County 4-H Council." Then, this happened:

  I served four terms as Council President; I attended two Congresses and three Roundups; I was a member of our county dairy cattle judging team which placed fourth in the state in 1950; I was a member of our livestock judging team, which won the state championship in 1951. I won the state Jr. Leadership contest in 1952 and a trip to the National Congress. I was an All-Star and Vol-State award winner. I introduced governors, met interesting people and was in the company of famous people. I experienced places and situations far different from my dear home in the Mouse Creek Community.

  Who can say these activities were not of life-changing value? I think so.

  Memories of those Congresses, Round-ups, camp at Standing Stone and all the work are ever with me. I authored a book, "East of Kingston South of Here" and included a complete chapter of my 4-H activities.

  I must include this: something (and someone) I will never forget is Fred Colby sitting up the equipment and teaching us to "waltz" to the sound of "The Black Hawk Waltz." If anyone remembers that and can get their hands on that exact music, I will go out and find a four-leaf clover as prize.

  4-H was just an important, though all too brief, part of my life.

• Ginger Morelock is a North Carolina 4-H agent and was a Greene County, TN 4-H'er.

  Read Ginger's story...

  After a successful 4-H career, I received a BA in Museum Studies and an MA in Folklore. I have worked in many different museums including the Kentucky Museum, Roanoke Island Festival Park, Museum of American Frontier Culture, and more recently, I was the first director for the newly opened Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center. I am also a Folklorist who developed heritage curriculum for 4th grade classes and help heritage tourism efforts in small rural communities.

  Beginning December 2005, I began a job that I have always wanted to do - 4-H Agent. I learned so much during my 4-H career in Tennessee and hold my experience very dear. My goal as a 4-H agent is to provide as many opportunities and experiences for my county's youth as possible. I want to help them achieve some of the successes I have experienced so far in my life.

• Emily Osterhaus is a 4-H agent in Bedford County.

  Read Emily's story...

  I started my 4-H career in the 5th grade at DeKalb County Middle School. Janet Hale, Steve Officer and Ron Rogers were the agents at the time. I moved in the middle of the year and was so confused about 4-H that I really did not want to be a part of it. Then we started having biscuit and corn bread baking contests and I thought that was cool. So by the time I hit 6th grade I was an officer and participating in every activity I possibly could. People that know me now have a hard time believing that I was once a shy, timid little girl. The first time I ever spoke in front of a group was at the 4-H speech contest. I thought I was going to throw up! In fact, my friend Polly ran off the stage she was so nervous. I really wanted to follow her, but I didn't.

  After 7th grade my parents decided to move to Wilson County. I think Mrs. Janet phoned Ms. Glenda Booker to let her know I would be coming because I had not been in Wilson County for long when I got a call from the 4-H office. I am so glad she did! Ms. Booker discovered that I could sew a little, so she get me involved in the Clothing Projects and Fashion Revues. I loved to travel so Mr. Beaty got me involved in the Exchange Group. I don't think I could even name all the places I have been with 4-H: Colorado, Louisiana, Washington, D.C., Arkansas and all over the state of Tennessee. Ms. Booker was always calling me to see if I wanted to go here or there. I don't think I ever said no.

  I, too, was one of those 4-H'ers that competed at Roundup and was never a state winner. But when I look back on my 4-H career, that is not what I think about. It's all the friends I made, all the places I went and especially all the encouragement I received from Ms. Booker to just keep on trying. That is the reason that I just couldn't leave 4-H, so I became a 4-H agent. I want other youth to have the experiences that I had. Those of meeting new people and making new friends, learning responsibility, traveling and being on your own and just having a great time. Ms. Booker was a great 4-H agent and still is a great volunteer and I sure hope I can do for our youth as much as she did for me!

• Patrick Roberson is a paramedic, farmer and freelance outdoor communicator from Pikeville.

  Read Patrick's story...

  Over twenty five years ago, I started out in 4-H in the explorer program. Over the next five years I attended several camps at Crossville, Columbia and Greenville. I met and made new friends that have lasted a life time. As my high school years progressed, I quit 4-H to devote my time to FFA activities since our FFA chapter was more active. After talking with my friends made at 4-H, I now realize that I missed out on many opportunities, which may still prove to be one of the biggest mistakes that I have ever made in my life.

  Over the past several years I have become interested in 4-H once again as an adult leader, going to camp with my kids. Being a leader is ten times more fun than a camper! It is amazing how fast time goes by. Twenty-five years ago while at wildlife camp, Dr. Tom Hill was just starting to be a part of that camp with his farm pond management program. It was an honor to be able to go to wildlife camp this summer and hear Dr. Hill again, as this may be his last wildlife conference due to his retirement. I only wish that I had listened to his advice the first time. Maybe if I had, my farm pond would now have good fish instead of the millions of inch long bream that now swim in my pond.

• Alison Sturm is a personal chef/caterer who resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and was a Unicoi County 4-H member just a few years ago.

  Read Alison's story...

  Prior to telling my own 4-H story, I spent some time reading the stories posted by others. Almost everyone says they “remember it like it was yesterday” and tell detailed accounts of what happened. While there are a lot of moments that I do remember clearly, I’m sure I’ve forgotten so much more. I guess as a kid I wasn’t aware that what I was doing at the time was making a positive impact on my life. I participated in all of the activities offered at the local level and even won some competitions at the county level. I especially enjoyed the county and state fairs. It was a chance for me to skip a day of school and bake biscuits in the fair building for all the passers-by to sample. Years later, I toured the fair building and saw the kids baking biscuits and I couldn’t believe how young they were! I don’t ever remember being that young. The fairs were also a time for me to accumulate blue ribbons for my baking talents. I still have the album where I so painstaking arranged the ribbons and labeled each one. I always did enjoy the cooking/baking activities the most.

  I dropped out of the 4-H program when I went into high school and I have often regretted that. After graduation, I went to college part-time and finally after nearly 10 years, I graduated with a BS in Business Management. I had been working for a Fortune 500 company for nearly 7 years and although I made very good money, my heart was not in my job. I did a lot of soul searching to try and find what it was that I truly wanted to do. I stumbled across my album full of blue ribbons one day while cleaning a long forgotten closet, and as I sat there thumbing through it, I realized that 4-H was the prime time in my life. I looked at all of those blue ribbons for the cooking related activities and finally found the answer to the question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

  I left my job and started my own business of being a personal chef and caterer. Even though I didn’t realize it at the time, my activities in 4-H were laying a path to help me find myself later in life. My husband and I recently were transferred to another state and it was a very hard move for me because I had to leave my established business behind. I have restarted the business here in my new state and in a desperate attempt to make friends and become involved; I joined the Garland County Extension Homemakers Club. The ladies welcomed me with open arms and after finding out what I “used” to do, they encouraged me to help form a new, non-traditional EHC Club called Cooks ‘R Us. I helped with a 4-H workshop during the holidays and once again, I felt like that little girl I once was. Our cooking club has been asked to teach cooking workshops to the 4-H'ers and I am so excited about having the chance to pass along my love of cooking and in possibly creating another Julia Childs or Wolfgang Puck!

  So, my 4-H story is a bit different from everyone else’s since my memories of “just like it was yesterday” were stored away in that long forgotten closet and thankfully recovered, dusted off, and put to good use again!

• Sharon Kay Gibson Tubbs is a 4-H Home Economist/Educator.

  Read Sharon's story...

  My story starts out for me when I was in the 4th grade at Parsons Elementary School in Decatur County. 4-H was a family tradition that goes back several years before---considering my father was in 4-H and in the livestock judging team and raised the chickens through the Chick Chain, and entered projects in the local fair. My mother did all these things, as well. My father and mother were born in 1921 and 1924 respectively. My four brothers and sister all participated in 4-H and went to 4-H camp, too. My Aunt Marie Gibson Baddour Anglin was also an Extension Agent--so to say this was a family tradition is an understatement!!!

  I remember going to 4-H camp that first year in the 4th grade. Camp helped teach me about earning the privilege to go to on a trip. With six kids in a family, my parents couldn't pay for me to go so I had to earn my way. Picking up coke bottles on the side of the road, cleaning house and helping my dad deliver newspapers were some of the ways I earned my way. I thought it was so expensive-- a whole $17.00!!!! and I'm not that old!!! I went to camp every year and eventually was able to attend as a teen and adult leader. It is enlightening now when I go to camp as an Agent and see some of the kids I was a teen leader for, who are now adults. They are carrying on their own tradition. Although I truly loved 4-H when I was in earlier grades, 4-H really came alive for me when Jeanine Cooper England came to be the 4-H Agent when I was in the 9th grade. She helped me with competing and winning honors in Honor Club and All-Stars (back then every one had to wear an Indian outfit-so we made one). I attended 4-H Congress, and then Citizenship Washington Focus!!!! Wow, that was more than a small town girl had ever seen! I still remember so much about that trip, and even working for it---we had a 4-H Chicken Shack at our Decatur County Fair where we could work and earn the price of $180.00 for a week in Washington!

  I remember the saddest day of my life was learning that I couldn't be in 4-H after I graduated from high school--well, not in the same way. I asked Mrs. Jeanine how I could be a 4-H Agent like her and she told me about going to a UT college and majoring in Home Economics. Well, that was almost impossible for me, but that set in concrete my life goal and I worked my way through college on my own, and received a degree in Home Economics Education from UTM. I was the first person in my family to receive a B.S. and then later a Master's Degree in my immediate family. I'm not sure where I would be if not for 4-H giving me the confidence and determination to finish my dream, being successful in finishing college and having a professional career. I owe 4-H a lot and that is why I want to give others that same determination and ambition to accomplish their life goals. I try to tell the 4-H'ers in my county now to keep trying and don't think they can't accomplish something just because someone else in their family hasn't done it yet--you be the first!!

  4-H offers a way out for some, a new path for others and dreams for still others- it allows you to accomplish more than you ever thought possible. I know because I have been one of the fortunate ones!!! Thanks 4-H!!!!

• Ray Wilson is the executive secretary of the Tennessee Feed and Grain Association and a past president of the Tennessee 4-H Foundation.

  Read Ray's story...

  Because of my experiences in 4-H Club, I developed a burning desire to attend the University of Tennessee and major in Agriculture. I grew up as the son of a tenant farmer and my family was very supportive of me being involved in 4-H. I had one of the best 4-H agents one could ever have -- Mr. Felix Knight. It was due to his encouragement and personal attention that my career in 4-H was such a pleasurable, exciting and educational experience.

  I also had a bachelor uncle that lived with us when I first started in 4-H Club work. He provided me with my first beef steer to finish and show in 4-H shows. I was only 7 years old at the time and I went to Nashville with my steer to show and sell in that event at the stock yard. I was short in stature and at the time steers were very short legged. The sale ring was bedded with very deep straw in order to help the animals look closer to the ground which was the preferred statue of the beef steers of that day. I led my steer into the sale ring and was on the opposite side of my steer from the sale announcer. He could not see me and asked if anyone was leading this animal. I looked around the front of my steer and then the announcer saw me, which was followed by a big laugh in the crowd. My steer sold very well and brought more per pound that he really should have, which I think was because of how I was received due to me being so short.

  I had the opportunity to attend 4-H Congress two years and 4-H Roundup two years while I was in high school. I attended 4-H Camp in Columbia four summers -- my last two summers as a junior leader. I earned my Vol State Award and also became a 4-H All Star. One of my projects during the later years of my 4-H program was vegetable production for which I won a $300.00 Scholarship from Sears & Roebuck Co. That $300.00 and an equal amount that I had saved started me to UT in Knoxville in the fall of 1956. By working one hour each day in “Mabels” and one hour each day in the Student Center Cafeteria, I was able to earn two meals per day during the week, which saved me a lot of money. I worked summers grooming and training Standard bred Trotters & Pacers, which helped me get through college. I completed my BS in Animal Science in December of 1961 and took a three year assistantship in Animal Science which allowed me to earn a Master of Science in Animal Nutrition by December 1964.

  I worked 36 years for the Tennessee Farmers Cooperative System in 7 different positions during my career. I retired at the end of September in 2000. I married my high school sweetheart which I had met during 4-H Camp in Columbia one summer. We got married in September of 1961 and our first of two daughters, Rae Ann, was born while I was in graduate school. Bethany, our second daughter, was born during my first year of employment with TFC. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to serve 3 terms on the Tennessee 4-H Foundation Board of Directors. I also served the Foundation twice as president. I am currently Executive Secretary of the Tennessee Feed & Grain Association, which is a part-time job that I work out of my home. I still am active with the LaVergne Rotary Club, a member and Sunday School Teacher at Smyrna First Methodist Church.

  As I look back over my life's experiences and the way I have been blessed, I know most of whatever success I have enjoyed would not have been possible without 4-H Club being my life's roadmap.

Now It's Your Turn...

Please take a moment to share your 4-H story with us! Your story may be posted along with your fellow 4-H alumni above. Thank you!

Other TN 4-H Sites

We invite you to visit the following related sites with whom Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. has a working relationship to benefit 4-H youth in Tennessee.

University of Tennessee Extension

Tennessee 4-H Web Page

Tennessee 4-H Foundation

Contact TN 4-H Alumni

The email address for Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. is friends@tn4halumni.org.

Our mailing address is:

Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc.
P. O. Box 110134
Nashville, TN 37222-0134

2008 Annual Membership Meeting

Leap year day (February 29) was a special day as TN 4-H Alumni members from across the state arrived in Crossville for the annual meeting. The Clyde York 4-H Center has been the site of many 4-H Alumni activities in its 33 year history and it hold many memories for both youth and adults who have participated in Camp and other meetings and events. (TN 4-H Alumni was incorporated in 1975.)

The 2008 Annual meeting was held in conjunction with the State 4-H Leader Forum and consisted of a tasty meal, a silent auction, an inspirational speech by Ralph Meacham, a session of sharing using the “Life Stories” board game and an interactive presentation by Justin Crowe on innovative 4-H programs using technology.

Alumni President Ruth Henderson McQueen turned the gavel over to incoming President Todd Austin and Ben Sanders was elected to fill the President-Elect slot. June Thompson will continue as the Corresponding Secretary and Lynne T. Williams will also continue as Recording Secretary/ Treasurer. The Regional Board members are as follows:

• Western Region -- Steve Douglas, Jimmy Johnson, and Nikki Mitchell Akins
• Central Region -- Justin Crowe, Sally Smith, and Kathy Atwood
• Eastern Region -- Tammy Lee, Jana Leonard, and Robert Meadows
• At-Large -- Johnny Barnes and Rebecca Lemley

The annual meeting was a delightful mix of “seasoned” members and younger Alumni all working to uphold the Alumni motto of Continuing Service. There are many ways to stay involved in 4-H -- be a volunteer, be a donor -- make a difference!

The Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. presidential contingency includes (from left to right) Ben Sanders, President-Elect; Ruth McQueen, Past President; and Todd Austin, President.

Ralph Meachum was honored during the Alumni Reunion for his many years of service to alumni and 4-H volunteers by State 4-H Specialist, Carmen Burgos. Ralph has been the official photographer for many years at the Southern Region Volunteer Leader Forum held at the Rock Eagle (Georgia) 4-H Center.

Mrs. June Thompson is a charter member of Tennessee 4-H Alumni, Inc. and has served as Corresponding Secretary for the organization for many years. If there is a face of Tennessee 4-H Alumni ... it’s Mrs. June!