BOISE, IDAHO – USDEC President and CEO Krysta Harden, a native of Camilla, Ga., and former Mitchell County 4-Her, was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame for her lifetime achievement and contributions to 4-H. Honored by the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals, Harden was one of 15 inducted during the ceremony Monday at the Boise Centre.
The National 4-H Hall of Fame laureates are nominated by their home states, National 4-H Council, the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals, or 4-H National Headquarters of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture-USDA based upon their exceptional leadership at the local, state, national and international levels.
Honorees were presented with a National 4-H Hall of Fame medallion, plaque, and memory book during the ceremony.
Upon acceptance, Harden said she is humbled and honored to be part of this year’s class of inductees. She noted her familiarity with many of the other individuals being recognized and has witnessed their valuable contributions to their communities.
She emphasized the opportunities 4-H has provided her throughout her life, a legacy that continues today in her role as Chair of the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees. As she travels the nation representing the Council, she meets young people involved in 4-H, all united by their passion for the program and the opportunities it offers to them and their families.
“It’s such a great program,” Harden said. “Why don’t we have every kid in this country part of 4-H?”
The National 4-H Hall of Fame was established in 2002 as part of the Centennial Project of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents in partnership with National 4-H Council and 4-H National Headquarters of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture-USDA. For more information about the National 4-H Hall of Fame event and past recipients, visit www.4-h-hof.com
“We are proud to honor and recognize the outstanding individuals who are the Class of 2024 Laureates for the National 4-H Hall of Fame. These individuals have touched the lives of many people, from 4-H staff and colleagues to thousands of 4-H volunteers and members throughout the nation,” said Pamela Van Horn, chair of the National 4-H Hall of Fame.
