Grace Evans joins 4-H Hall of Fame

The look on Grace Evans’ face said it all last Wednesday night. She was very shocked and surprised to be Adair County’s Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame inductee, announced during the first night of the 2024 Adair County Fair.

Extension Office staff Caroline Savage and Terri Raasch made the announcement.

“Elated...overwhelmed,” Evans said in an interview later about receiving the award.

Evans, of Bridgewater, has memories of 4-H involvement that go back to when she was a youth. She started in an all girls club but then she joined a boys club because then she would be allowed to exhibit the home-raised livestock her family took so much pride in.

“I’ve enjoyed many conversations with Grace, reminiscing about her time in 4-H and how things have changed over the years,” Savage said. “One memory she enjoys sharing is from when she was in her all-girls club and officer positions were created. A rally day was held in June, when members rallied for positions they wanted. Grace did so by handing out little bluebirds with a piece of candy and a note that said ‘Vote for Grace.’ Her campaign worked and she proudly held the role of club historian.”

After her own membership in 4-H, Evans transitioned to serving a leader when her children were in 4-H and when her three grandchildren were in 4-H. For the past 24 years, Evans has been superintendent of the Pride of Iowa cooking competition at the fair. Each year, Evans helps judge record books, and she still has her own record book to this day. In all, she has nearly 50 years logged as a 4-H volunteer.

Outside 4-H, Evans is treasurer of the Adair County Pork Producers. Through that role, she oversees many of the group’s events and their role in Ag in the Classroom, where she and other volunteers go teach about pork in local elementary school classrooms. She also gives her time to Ag 4 All events.

Evans also spends time as a part of the local garden club as well as the Red, White and Blue Quilt Guild, which gives quilts to veterans each year. She is involved in the Bridgewater American Legion Auxiliary and is a key part of each year’s Memorial Day Service in Bridgewater.

When they hear her story, Evans hopes people realize how many benefits there are to being involved with 4-H.

“Whether it’s hosting, organizing or grilling, Grace is a constant presence,” Savage said. “Her unwavering commitment exemplifies the 4-H values of head, heart, hands and health. In celebrating Grace tonight, we’re not only celebrating her remarkable contributions, but also the spirit of service that defines Adair County 4-H.”