2003 Johnson County - John and Mary Ellen Wall

John and Mary Ellen Wall are “famous” in Johnson County for their leadership in the 4-H program.  Their contributions as community volunteers make them well known for their commitment to youth and the community.

As a 4-H leader for 28 years, Mary Ellen has been a pioneer of the “youth as partners” concept in her 4-H club; she helps youth gain leadership and citizenship skills through “practicing” in their club and community. John and Mary Ellen have worked together as 4-H leaders to encourage their children, grandchildren, and 4-H club members to participate in the wealth of 4-H experience at the club, county and state level.

John and Mary Ellen Wall are active and committed community, county, and state volunteers. John has served as a director of National Livestock Meat Board, Johnson Co. Fair Board, and the SE Iowa ISU Research Farm; he is past president of his church and past secretary of the Iowa Pork Producers. Mary Ellen has served on the ISU Extension State Advisory Committee, been an adult representative to the National 4-H Conference, and chaired the Johnson Co. 4-H Youth Development Committee. John has been named an Iowa Master Farmer and Mary Ellen an Iowa Master Farm Homemaker.

The Walls have hosted numerous international and national guests at their farm near Iowa City. They are outstanding people and examples for the youth of Johnson County.