Alice Walters of Jefferson was inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame at the Iowa State Fair Sunday, Aug. 20. Her induction was just three days before Walters’ 101st birthday. She has been involved with 4-H for more than 90 years.
Walters started in 4-H at the age of 9 in Carroll County. She remembers wearing her 4-H uniform while doing a demonstration at the Iowa State Fair. Her mother worked for the Extension Service and was a 4-H leader.
Walters graduated from Iowa State University in 1938 with a degree in home economics. She served as Greene County Extension home economist from 1958 to 1968. She was the first home economist in the county, and started from scratch and developed programming as a county, not limited to one town or township.
Walters loved teaching and thought it was very important for all 4-H members to complete a record book. She also started leader training for home economics and 4-H clubs.
Walters was a judge for 4-H achievement shows, county fairs, and the Iowa State Fair for many years. She judged many areas including clothing and food. One of Walters’ favorite memories was the year she judged the same 4-H member’s rolls at the achievement show, county fair, and state fair. She always tried to come up with something new to say each time she judged the same projects.
Walters’ community involvement has been extensive. Highlights include making the initial donation to start the Greene County Community Foundation. Walters volunteered every day for 20 years in Mrs. Schwaller’s kindergarten classroom, retiring in 2015 at the age of 99. That year, she received the Greene County Community Impact Award. She is an active member of the First United Methodist Church.
Walters celebrated her 101st birthday on Aug. 23. She has been involved with and supportive of 4-H and Extension & Outreach for more than 90 years. Today, she spends much of her time with her cat Penny and still spends time in the community and with her many nieces and nephews.
“Walters is a treasure in Greene County and the community is proud to her as their inductee into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame,” the nomination form stated.
