Posted on August 19, 2019 at 2:37 PM by Global Reach
Carol Peterson’s love for 4-H began when she was a 4-H’er herself. She started working for Winnebago County Extension in 1980 as the Home Economist. Later she added Director to her title and held that position until she retired in 2012 after 32 years.
Carol loved her job, and it showed in her work. She was well known throughout Winnebago and surrounding counties and quickly became the face of extension. Carol created long-lasting partnerships with local businesses and remained committed to her job. She started a number of programs in Winnebago County that are still going strong today. Family Fun Night was an event that began during the recession with the goal of bringing families together to have fun. 19 years later, it is still one of the well attended events Winnebago County has to offer.
She also helped start the Family Fall Festival; another well attended family event that takes place every October. Carol was instrumental in starting the community foundation. Winnebago County served as the administrative arm, publicizing the foundation and taking new grant applications.
Carol not only supported 4-H in her profession, but also in her free time. She began judging at local county fairs in the 1970’s and continued until 2018. Carol is now retired, but is still well-known within Winnebago County! Her work with Winnebago County Extension helped to build it into the program it is today!
