Iowa 4-H Foundation

Posted on April 21, 2011 at 1:14 PM by Global Reach

Don and Joann ShannonDoctor Don Shannon and Joann Shannon together make one of those power couples that have had an incredible and lasting impact on the 4-H Program in Iowa.

Joann started in 4-H as a child in Tama County and in fact won the Top Girl Award in Tama County 4-H in 1955.  She continued to be active in the club level later as a leader when Don and Joann’s three daughters and 1 son went thru 4-H in Lee County.  She was as active and engaged as a leader as she was as a member – and won leadership awards and recognition from Lee County in the mid-80’s.  Years later when her own children were grown and had children of their own she enjoyed 4-H for a third time as she watched her grandchildren participate in 4-H activities while they were members in clubs.  Joann believes that the 4-H process of making goals and seeing them thru to completion as well as the practice of getting up and presenting are invaluable skills that help you over a lifetime.

Don’s 4-H involvement has been of a different sort.  After graduating from Iowa State University Veterinary School (where he met his wife) he set up practice in Lee County where he now runs three offices: in Fort Madison, Donnellson and West Point.  For more than 30 years “Doc Shannon” has volunteered his time and expertise as the 4-H Fair Veterinarian at Iowa’s Oldest County Fair. 

During that time “Doc Shannon” has mentored many young livestock producers, future vets and animal lovers.  He has spent countless hours at the fair and has dealt with the diseases, scares, regulations and changes that have taken place in livestock production over the years.  Not to mention that along with Joann, “Doc Shannon” was a 4-H parent and grandparent too, and married to a 4-H leader!

The 4-Hers, leaders and supporters of the Lee County 4-H Program, Iowa State University Extension in Lee County and the Lee County Fair are pleased to honor Doctor Don and Joann Shannon for their contribution to 4-H in Iowa.

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Categories: Lee

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