Posted on August 19, 2019 at 2:14 PM by Global Reach
MaryAnn Gardner’s dedication to the 4-H program goes back to when her great grandmother was a 4-H leader, and her father was a County Extension Director in Jones, Adams and Union Counties. MaryAnn and her sister, Betty, were active 4-H members. She carried many projects in her local club and served on the county council in 1957-1958. Her interest continued, as she was a 4-H leader and received special recognition in the year 2000 for 30 years of volunteer service. This family interest and commitment has continued through six generations as her children, grandchildren, and now a great grandchild is involved in the Clover Kids program. 
MaryAnn’s long-time commitment to the photography and visual arts project areas has been significant to 4-H youth in Story County and throughout the state of Iowa. She has demonstrated dedication, creativity, encouragement, and guidance as a way to teach young people life skills.
MaryAnn has led many workshops to reach 4-H’ers, sharing her knowledge as a judge on the county and state levels for many years. Her commitment to youth shows in a positive attitude and a support that translates into action to reach young people and their families. A former 4-Her that was a member of MaryAnn’s club said, “MaryAnn was a strong leader. She taught us leadership skills, project skills, and knew how to teach and have fun”.
MaryAnn still takes an active role in Extension Education and Outreach, serving as a current member of the Story County Extension Council. In addition to her 15 years on Extension Council, she served four years on the Story County 4-H Foundation Board and is an active member of the Story County 4-H History Committee. She is a positive contributing member to everything in which she is involved.
Story County is extremely proud to recognize MaryAnn Gardner as she is inducted into the 2019 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.
