2023 Cerro Gordo: County Bill Cody

Bill Cody’s journey to champion for the Cerro Gordo 4-H program is unique, forward thinking, and steady. These attributes are what Cerro Gordo County 4-H and Extension & Outreach community value in Bill as a volunteer, leader, and friend. 

At the age of 16, Bill began helping a farm family in Palo Alto County where he got his first lessons in 4-H. He learned that the 4-H program taught youth about hard work and life skills, something he could relate to. After several summers of work at their farm, Bill was able to pay for most of his secondary education. Bill graduated in 1979 from Upper Iowa University with a degree in accounting which lead to a lifelong career in the banking sector. 

Knowing the impact 4-H and extension programs can have, he was elected to Cerro Gordo County Extension Council in November 2004. In 2006, Bill became treasurer, a position which is ongoing. 

In 2005, Bill joined the Cerro Gordo County 4-H Foundation, becoming chairmen in 2007. Each year Bill is proud to hold a successful food stand at the North Iowa Fair. This helps offset the cost of 4-H membership and give fair goers a great food choice. Bill is thankful that the foundation can maintain the wonderful asset of the county’s 4-H Learning Center, which is one of the only in Iowa.

Annually at the 4-H Awards Banquet, Bill presents the Service Above Self Award from NSB Bank to a deserving senior. Bill’s motto is to do “whatever we can to help youth succeed.” Bill was the county Honorary 4-H Member of the Year in 2010 because of his actions to help youth succeed in the 4-H program and beyond. 

Bill lives in Mason City with his wife Annie. He spends free time with 3 sons, 3 stepsons and 8 grandchildren who all live in Cerro Gordo County! Bill Cody truly is committed to making the best better in Cerro Gordo County through his impact on 4-H. We are very thankful to have Bill as a respected long-term volunteer.