(ND Ag Connection) – By Scout Nelson

The North Dakota 4-H Foundation and North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension 4-H Youth Development program recently held a Recognition Luncheon to celebrate outstanding contributions within the 4-H community.

The event took place at the North Dakota 4-H Camp near Washburn, where honorees included six 4-H Century Families, four Salute to Excellence Award recipients, and a Hall of Fame inductee.

“It was a day of celebration and gratitude as we honored the legacy, dedication and impact of our 4-H Century Families, volunteer award recipients, and Hall of Fame inductee,” said Leigh Ann Skurupey, assistant director for NDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development. “Their contributions are the heart of 4-H, inspiring generations and shaping the future of our youth.”

Century Families Honored:

To qualify as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family, a family’s collective years of participation must reach or exceed 100 years. The six families celebrated included contributions across multiple counties, with service years ranging from 101 to 221.

Salute to Excellence Awards:

Two categories of awards recognize 4-H volunteers: the Volunteer of the Year, for under 10 years of service, and the Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award, for more than 10 years of service. Volunteers from Dickey, McLean, Ramsey, and Cass counties were honored for their dedication to supporting 4-H activities and youth.

Hall of Fame Induction

Michael “Mike” Hanson was posthumously inducted into the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame for his 37-year career with NDSU Extension. Hanson, a 4-H enthusiast from an early age, contributed significantly to youth programs, including 4-H camps and the North Dakota State Fair.

His wife, LuAnn Hanson, and sister, Myrna Hanson, accepted the award on his behalf. “Mike believed in the potential of 4-H youth to become future leaders and develop essential life skills,” said Karla Meikle, 4-H activities coordinator.

The foundation also acknowledged outgoing board members for their service, highlighting their commitment to North Dakota’s 4-H mission.