University of Wisconsin - Extension

WASHINGTON, D. C. ¿ Feb. 26, 2003 ¿ U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Tommy Thompson was honored with the National 4-H Alumni Award here today in recognition of his ¿exceptional citizenship, exemplary service to the people of his state and his nation, and for displaying the 4-H qualities of public service and leadership.¿

¿Secretary Thompson¿s career in public service is an excellent example of purposeful citizenship and leadership,¿ said University of Wisconsin System president Katharine C. Lyall.

UW System Regent Patrick G. Boyle, who is also chancellor emeritus of the University of Wisconsin-Extension, co-presented the award to the former Wisconsin governor, saying, ¿Tommy Thompson¿s public work is emblematic of the 4-H pledge to use ¿our hands for larger service.¿ He has earned the trust and respect of the American people by displaying a strong work ethic, focusing on the people he serves and standing up for his beliefs. These are the same successful qualities he believes 4-H works to instill in young people.¿

According to the National 4-H Council, the National 4-H Alumni Award recognizes former 4-H members who serve as living examples of dependable, purposeful citizenship. It is presented to those individuals who exemplify effective citizenship and leadership and who have made a commitment to community and public service.

¿This special recognition is reserved for individuals like Secretary Thompson who have developed their potential, in part, through their 4-H training and a commitment to youth,¿ said Annie Hobson, a UW-Extension 4-H ambassador who represented thousands of Wisconsin 4-H youth at today¿s ceremony. ¿It is our way of recognizing Head, Heart, Hands and Health in action.¿

The unique presentation took place during UW System¿s ¿UW Alumni Reception in D. C.¿ at which Lyall saluted Washington-area alumni, members of Wisconsin¿s federal delegation and other distinguished guests at the Rayburn House Office Building.

¿It is certainly an honor to receive this 4-H Alumni Award,¿ Secretary Thompson said. ¿4-H was a major influence in my childhood, teaching me the values of good citizenship and conscientiousness. I apply its lessons in public service today. And I know that across America, our future leaders are being prepared by their local 4-H programs."

UW-Extension 4-H Youth Development programs give young people opportunities to learn new skills, gain self-confidence and contribute to their communities. Backed by the knowledge and research of the University of Wisconsin, 4-H programs are delivered by more than 20,000 adult volunteers in neighborhood 4-H clubs or groups and through collaborations with other local organizations.

Wisconsin 4-H involves about 215,000 youth and adults statewide and touches the lives of thousands of people in Wisconsin communities through 4-H projects, activities and public service. For more information, see http://www.uwex.edu/ces/4h.