(Photo by Steve Pope, Iowa State Fair photographer) Dave Hessman was presented his 4-H Hall of Fame certificate at the Iowa State Fair.

Dave Hessman, former Clay County Extension Education Director, was inducted into the 2008 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame during a ceremony at the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 17. Eighty-two Iowa counties have participated this year and selected inductees for their outstanding service and dedication to 4-H

When asked what has highlighted his career, Hessman said, "The satisfaction of working and volunteering with youth and seeing them obtain the training they need for their chosen career and then seeing the success. I tried to instill in children that there is a need for community volunteerism. What they build today is building for the future of others. The 4-H program has influenced many lives."

Counties selected inductees for their exceptional work in contributing to the lives of 4-H members and the overall 4-H program. Many inductees served as club leaders, youth mentors, fair superintendents or fair board members, Extension council members, county youth council members, fair judges, financial supporters, chaperones, or Iowa State University (ISU) Extension staff members. The inductees have demonstrated dedication, encouragement, commitment and guidance to Iowa's 4-H'ers through the years.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the counties and state to recognize and celebrate 4-H volunteers and staff who have shown outstanding service and dedication to Iowa's 4-H program," said Chuck Morris, ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development director.

The Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame was initiated in 2002 to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of 4-H.