Stories

Leslie Doig
Shelby county, Indiana, 1962 to 1972

I too went off the 32-foot tower at Shakamak as mentioned in Becky Skillman's interview for the Bright Green kickoff issue. She is a fantastic person as are so many 4-H alums serving the state of Indiana.

My great aunt started our local club in the early 1900s and so many of my family and neighbors for generations have continuedthe 4-H tradition in Noble Township in Shelby County. I'm currently a leader with 15 years of experience along with my mom, 30 years plus, and my dad, 40 years plus.

The best reward is the fact that my son went on to win the Outstanding Accomplishment Scholarship Governor's Tray in leadership in 1999, pursue an animal science degree from Purdue, masters from the University of kentucky and now works for Ohio State University extension as a beef cattle specialist. His leadership experience allows him to speak all over the U.S. and Canada.

What was a summer hobby and livelihood for my family became an occupation of future generations all because of 4-H roots.  I've started working with my 11-year-old niece and she won champion hereford steer her first year. I didn't win champion until my 10th year. I've improved my herd 100% with my dad's guidance, my husband and son's hard work and my management skills learned through 4-H.