Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Wapello County proudly honors Judy Jackson as the 2025 Hall of Fame inductee. A lifelong 4-H advocate, Judy’s dedication has shaped the lives of countless youth and left a lasting legacy in the community.
Raised on a farm near Richland, Iowa, Judy and her siblings were all active 4-H members. Her passion for the program has spanned generations, continuing through her children, Scott and Jill, whom she supported in clubs in Bladensburg and Hedrick. Judy volunteered countless hours at both county and state levels, assisting with a wide range of 4-H projects—from livestock and agriculture to creative arts, horticulture, and communication events like educational presentations and Share-The-Fun performances.
Judy’s own 4-H journey included leadership roles and a memorable trip to Washington, D.C., shared with her siblings—an experience that deepened her commitment to civic engagement and youth development.
She played a key role in the early development of the Wapello County Expo, helping establish the Expo grounds at Greater Ottumwa Park and contributing to its continued success.
Today, Judy serves as President of the Wapello County 4-H Foundation and remains an active volunteer, judging 4-H projects in Wapello and surrounding counties, including at the Iowa State Fair.
Judy Jackson’s unwavering belief in the power of youth development, her leadership, and her decades of service make her a truly deserving inductee into the Wapello County 4-H Hall of Fame.
