David Running recognized in Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development Hall of Fame

Published on by jackie.askins
David Running

David Running receives the 4-H Hall of Fame award, with Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development Program Director Dale Leidheiser and Wisconsin 4-H Youth Leader Council President Pauline Schlais

The University of Wisconsin-Extension 4-H Youth Development Program inducted 100 laureates into the brand-new Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame Saturday, November 15. The Hall of Fame induction ceremony was the last statewide event celebrating 100 years of 4-H in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame was established to recognize 4-H volunteers, financial supporters, staff and pioneers who made major contributions to 4-H at the local, state and national levels. The honorees represent 4-H in the broadest sense, according to Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development State Program Director Dale Leidheiser.

“We are inducting volunteers, supporters and UW-Extension employees who had an impact on the lives of children, their community or state through significant contributions of time, energy, or financial resource to 4-H and its members,” Leidheiser says.

Wisconsin 4-H is proud to be represented by David Running in the 4-H Hall of Fame. David first experienced the value of learning by doing as a 4-H member in Vernon County. His 4-H career began in Lafayette County as a 4-H and Youth Development Agent. After seven years, he continued as the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in Fond du Lac County. As a 4-H agent he valued the leadership development that he was able to witness in youth and adult volunteers.

Following eight years in Fond du Lac County, he became the Northeast District Director. In this role, he continued to support all professionals to address the needs of youth and adults. He enjoyed working with young professionals and seeing them grow. He also served as the Interim State 4-H Program Leader for two years.

David continues his support for youth programs, by being involved with the fair industry and enjoys teaching youth as he judges at local fairs and State Fair.

Since 1914, Wisconsin 4-H has helped youth grow the leadership, critical thinking and communications skills necessary to be successful in a constantly changing world. Visit the Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame website to learn more about the individuals who supported 100 years of growing Wisconsin leaders.