By Anna McFall

Three people with Chilton County ties were inducted to the 4-H Wall of Fame Nov. 12at the Alabama 4-H and Youth Development Center in Columbiana.
“The 4-H Wall of Fame honors people and organizations that have made a significant impact on the 4-H and Youth Development program, its members and leaders.  The Alabama 4-H Club Foundation, Inc. and Alabama 4-H honors, remembers and pay tribute to those who have influenced the lives of Alabama youth by their commitment to make the best better,” said Betty Gottler, coordinator of the 4-H centennial celebration.
The most recent inductees are: J.O. Conway, Sarah McDowell and Dam Mims.
Conway began his career as an agriculture vocational instructor at Dadeville High School, where he began working closely with the ACES cotton quality program. He went on to become the assistant county agent in Blount County. His achievements include: starting a youth environmental conference, supporting the start of Alabama’s Master Gardner Program, as well as serving as the north Alabama district Extension coordinator. Conway was also involved in organizing the Alabama 4-H Agent’s Association.
“Some of my most successful programs were local 4-H club meetings, junior leadership, county livestock clubs that included judging, local livestock shows, wildlife and forestry camps, and volunteer development for 4-H,” said Conway. “I felt my leadership development for 4-H youth and adults was my most successful effort.”
Sarah McDowell was also inducted into the Wall of Fame. McDowell, a retired Chilton County Extension Agent, began her career with ACES in 1951.
As a 4-H agent, she conducted in-school 4-H club meetings for fifth and sixth grades. She also worked with youth special education classes, as well as community and after-school classes. Gay West, Chilton County Extension Coordinator, nominated McDowell.
McDowell has positively influenced the lives of legions of Chilton County 4-H’ers with her quick wit, ready smile and unwavering professionalism.
Dan Mims, a retired Chilton County Extension agent, was also inducted into the Wall of Fame. He organized and helped establish 4-H Clubs across Chilton County, focusing his efforts on local and commercial vegetable production. During his tenure with ACES, he was a notable founding member of several community events, including the county peach festival.
Mims is known for his friendliness, courtesy, willingness to help and consideration of clientele and coworkers. He was nominated by Gay West, Chilton County Extension Coordinator.
“One hundred and two inductees have been honored during Alabama’s year-long centennial celebration,” said Lamar Nichols, assistant director, 4-H Youth Development, Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Inductees include 4-H volunteers, former 4-Hers, retired Extension agents, county coordinators, state specialists and friends of 4-H.