Beatrice Cleveland

4-H Associate State Leader

Bea Cleveland's greatest contribution to the Ohio 4-H program has been time – time to improve the lives of boys and girls, to inspire volunteer leaders and to ensure 4-H opportunities for future generations. From 1945, when she worked as a Home Demonstration Agent in Madison County, through her career as Associate State 4-H Leader, to 1079 as a volunteer fund raiser for the Ohio 4-H Foundation, she devoted her time and talents to 4-H around the world.

Since May of 1977, Bea has traveled thousands of miles across Ohio in her effort to raise funds for the Ohio    4-H foundation Fund. It is a tribute to her remarkable personality and enthusiasm that she far exceeded her goal of $1 million. Many have said that no one in the State of Ohio, other then Bea Cleveland, could have raised so much money in such a short time for Ohio 4-H. She raised nearly $1 ½ million! Bea has also been active in the international 4-H Youth Exchange Program since its inception in 1948. Never officially off duty, Bea has been a friend and confidante to IFYE delegates to and from Ohio for over 30 years. Bea's work has strengthened 4-H and is has been enriched by her presence throughout.

Edna Hupp

Urban Children have long been of concern to Edna Hupp. In 1969, she pioneered the urban 4-H program with 13 youngsters in Springfield, Ohio. While working with low income youth, Mrs. Hupp generated in them a strong desire to succeed and helped them to develop positive self-concepts. Serving for 27 years as a 4-H advisor and clothing project, Edna is a past president of the 4-H Extension and 4-H Expansion and Review committees. She was instrumental in organizing the Clark county Fashion Board and served as President of the 4-H Clothing Committee. She also served four years on the Washington Court House Area 4-H committee and was a member of the Extension Support Committee and the Bicentennial Planning committee. One of Ohio's 4-H Alumni Winners in 1967, Edna initiated the formation of the Clark County 4-H Alumni Club that same year.

One of Edna's co-workers in 4-H recently commented, “You can travel throughout the State of Ohio and you will not be able to find a layperson so dedicated to 4-H then Edna Hupp. Edna is truly a compassionate person who cares for youth.”

Lewis Conger

Lewis Conger dedicated a lifetime of service to 4-H Camp Conger, a camp started by his parents in 1925. He represents the second generation of his family to provide a site free of charge for 4-H camping, carrying on a family tradition of service by donating materials, scheduling groups into the camp, and providing labor and equipment for the camp's operation.

Through the Congers' efforts and caring, thousands of young people from Huron, Ottawa and Wyandot Counties have enjoyed the beauty of 4-H Camp Conger. Along with youth from other organizations, they have had their lives enriched through learning about Ohio's Indian heritage and have developed a strong understanding of the importance of conservation and management of natural resources. Conger's family still continues its support of the camp. They have donated thousands of hours as well as thousands of dollars to benefit Ohio youth.

Harry Steiner

Harry Steiner did not begin working with the Ohio 4-H Program until he was 62 years old. But during his 22 years of service, he influenced the lives of many boys and girls. A specialist in 4-H electricity and woodworking projects, Harry has always inspired youth and encouraged them to come into his Hardin County home workshop for help and instruction. He enjoys working with young people, especially on a one-to-one basis, and had often reached out far beyond local club meetings. Greatly respected in his community, Harry is looked up to for the personal guidance and assistance he gives boys and girls. His leadership is recognized by adults and young people alike. Beyond 4-H, he has been a member of the local School Board.

He continues contributing regularly and freely to the Ohio 4-H Foundation and supports the Hardin County Fair with awards to encourage participation. Harry believes in 4-H and youth.