Cape Girardeau County woman inducted into the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame

SEDALIA, Mo. – “Making the best better” for generations of Missouri 4-H Club members, Mary Lou Kurtz of Cape Girardeau was inducted into the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame on Aug. 13 at State Fair Community College in Sedalia.

She was among 54 inductees from 40 counties establishing a legacy totaling 1,594 years of service to 4-H. More than 400 family members and friends attended the 10th annual event.

Mary Lou Kurtz grew up in the Sainte Genevieve County 4-H program and served as a club leader for the Campster 4-H Club before moving to Cape Girardeau County. She now serves as a club leader for the Young Americans 4-H Club leading child care projects and helping with the Clover Kids day camp.

Mary Lou is a talented musician and poet. Every year she writes a poem for the club’s military Christmas card and she plays the piano during their annual caroling event at the Veterans home. She also coordinates Achievement Day activities and maintains club records. She has served Missouri 4-H for more than 43 years.

The Missouri 4-H Foundation recognizes individuals who have created a legacy of service to 4-H by honoring them with membership in the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame, said Rachel Augustine, associate director of development for the Missouri 4-H Foundation.

“These volunteers have played a vital role in helping our youth develop essential life skills that will empower them to become strong leaders in the 21st-century workforce,” she said. “We are proud to honor their legacy of service to Missouri 4-H.”

The annual event is sponsored by FCS Financial and the Missouri State Fair in partnership with the Missouri 4-H Foundation.“Our University of Missouri Extension 4-H youth faculty and staff work in partnership with our volunteers to see they have the support needed to empower youth to succeed as future leaders,” said Dr. Ina Metzger Linville, program director, MU Extension 4-H Center for Youth Development. “Dedicated faculty and staff, committed volunteers, and spirited 4-H’ers will continue to learn and grow together to help our youth and communities thrive.”