Posted on April 5, 2011 at 11:10 AM by Global Reach
Linda Swanson is an enthusiastic advocate for 4-H, and seeks every opportunity to educate or involve others. Whether it is a planning meeting, an educational workshop, a youth beef show, or a promotional event, Linda Swanson displays exemplary leadership. As the liaison to the Clay County 4-H Beef and Swine Committees, for example, she is continually thinking of ways to make the 4-H fair experience outstanding and is dedicated to see that participants are successful. She leads by example, showing what it means to be dedicated, hard working, and generous. Other benefactors of her great ideas and tremendous energy include 4-H families, livestock judging teams, the Clay County Fair Board, Spencer’s Flagfest Beef Show Committee, and the Iowa State Fair.
Linda possesses excellent organization skills, as is evidenced from the many successful events she plans and implements. She has the ability to work well with people of all ages, is inclusive and draws on the knowledge and experience of others. Her relationships with individuals and business make her successful at fundraising. For example, when a decision was made to raise several thousand dollars to support the Clay County 4-H ultrasound program, Linda had the calls made and the funds raised before the day was through. Linda’s creative, futuristic thinking and 'can-do' attitude contribute to the quality, the level of participation, and the financial support for a variety of youth events. This is especially true for our county and district 4-H/FFA shows and sales at the Clay County Fair.
Linda has served as an Extension program assistant and a seasonal employee of our 4-H fair team for 20 years. She is a dedicated organizational leader of one of our largest and most active community clubs, the Clay Raiders 4-H Club. For the Swansons, 4-H has always been a family affair. Her husband Al is a longtime 4-H volunteer. Her two children, Chris and Lisa, enjoyed outstanding 4-H careers. Linda and Al’s seven grandchildren, ages 4-16 years, are now 4-H members – or soon-to-be!
Linda is a positive influence on young people, families, committees, organizations, and communities, and is a strong voice for Iowa youth. Linda seizes every opportunity to promote, advocate, enrich, build understanding, learn and teach others. Her dedication over the years can be evidenced by numerous honors and recognitions. Iowa State University Extension in Clay County, for example awarded Linda Swanson the Honorary 4-H’er and the Adult Meritorious Service Award, two of the highest awards bestowed upon county volunteers. And in 2005, Linda was honored as the Iowa Cattlewoman of the Year. It is a privilege to recommend Mrs. Linda Swanson for the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.
