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April 24, 2002

Indiana resident inducted into National 4-H Hall of Fame

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – A woman who devoted over 80 years of her life to 4-H was honored for her contributions to youth development during the National 4-H Conference in Chevy Chase, Maryland on April 11.

Mary Frances Smith of West Lafayette, Ind. was one of only 100 people nationwide and the only Indiana resident to be inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame. She joins other 4-H pioneers, state Extension directors and staff, donors, county 4-H educators, founders of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents, long-time volunteers, Congressmen, a composer, an astronaut, and several business founders.

"Mary Frances is a phenomenal woman," said Norman Long, professor emeritus of 4-H/Youth who worked with Smith. "She showed total dedication to 4-H, young people, and her teammates."

Smith, who was unable to attend the ceremony because of frail health, was involved in 4-H work as a member and club leader in Monroe County. She served on the state 4-H staff at Purdue University from 1950 until 1976. During her tenure, she was active in organizing and conducting 4-H adult volunteer training programs, judges' clinics and other workshops. Smith was involved in establishing the Indiana 4-H Foundation, Hoosier 4-H Leadership Center and the 4-H Scholarship program.

The Hall of Fame Web site. Each inductee has his or her own Web page with a photograph, brief biography, and quote.

The National 4-H Hall of Fame is a centennial project of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents.

CONTACT: Norman Long, (765) 567-2733, longn@purdue.edu

Compiled by Mindy Reef, (765) 494-8402, news_students@aes.purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722; Beth Forbes, bforbes@aes.purdue.edu; https://www.agriculture.purdue.edu/AgComm/public/agnews/

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu


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