Vandenberg inducted into Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame

Brad Vandenberg of  Lee County was inducted into the 2022 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair on Sunday, Aug. 21. Ninety-eight Iowa counties participated this year and selected 133 inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H. Inductees or their surviving family members were presented a certificate by the Iowa 4‑H Foundation President, Julie McGonegle, and State 4-H Program Leader, Debbie Nistler, as they were introduced on stage.
Brad is a lifelong resident of Lee County. As a young boy, he was active in 4-H and Saddle Club, participating in both the county and state fairs. His excitement and commitment to both has only increased since then. He’s been a strong supporter of the Lee County Fair, serving on the fair board for many years. Brad hasn’t missed a county fair and can always be found helping around the fairgrounds, assisting with a livestock show, or grilling for a grandstand event. Brad has also assumed a role on the Extension Council the last several years and currently serves as the President.
Counties select inductees for their exceptional work in contributing to the lives of 4-H members and the overall 4-H program, said Whitney Weisinger, ISU Extension and Outreach Program Coordinator. Many inductees serve as club leaders, youth mentors, fair superintendents or fair board members, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach county council members, county youth council members, fair judges, financial supporters, chaperones or ISU Extension and Outreach staff members. The inductees have demonstrated dedication, encouragement, commitment and guidance to Iowa’s 4-H’ers through the years
“We are honored to recognize these special individuals, for their advocacy and dedication to the Iowa 4-H program,” shared Iowa 4-H Foundation Executive Director, Emily Saveraid.
“This is a great way to honor the volunteers and staff across the state of Iowa that generously give their time and talents to foster positive partnerships with our 4-H youth,” said Tillie Good, Iowa 4-H staff and volunteer development manager.
The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H. A summary of previous honorees was on display at the 2022 Iowa State Fair in the 4-H Exhibits Building.  These summaries are also available at the Iowa 4-H Foundation office in the Extension 4-H Youth Building at Iowa State University. Information about previous inductees to the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame also is available on the Iowa 4-H Foundation website, organized by year and by county. Go to www.iowa4hfoundation.org/ and select “Recognition” then “Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.”