Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Rose Smith of Curlew, Iowa, has been selected for the 2025 Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in recognition of her outstanding contributions to 4-H in Palo Alto County. Rose exemplifies the kind of dedicated volunteer every county hopes to have.
Her 4-H journey began in 2001 as a club leader for the Mallard Fliers 4-H Club, working alongside her husband, Vernon. In 2005, she became the Clover Kid leader for West Bend-Mallard K–3 students, a role she held for 16 years. Known for her organization, creativity, and patience, Rose often led groups of over 30 children.
Rose also played a key role in fair exhibit displays, arranging them by recognition level to enhance visibility. She helped with sewing workshops, chaperoned lock-ins, and served as a Clover Kid judge—offering youth a positive introduction to exhibit judging.
In 2021, Rose received the 4-H Clover Volunteer Leader Award for 20 years of service. Originally from Vail, Iowa, she was the oldest of nine children. After earning her accounting degree from Spencer School of Business, she married Vernon Smith in 1984. They raised two children, Galen and Laura, both active in 4-H.
In 2022, Rose and Vernon moved to Osage to be closer to their daughter and grandchildren. She continues to support her grandchildren’s Clover Kid projects and remains a strong advocate for 4-H.
Palo Alto County is proud to honor Rose Smith for her decades of service, leadership, and dedication to youth development through 4-H.
