Betty Haag

Jefferson County Retired Home Economist

Elizabeth (Betty) Haag grew up on a Rock County property that has been in her family for more than 100 years. Her 4-H experience started at age 10, leading her to take on the roles of a club officer and a junior project leader. Upon graduation, Betty attended Whitewater State Teachers College, now known as the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She then attended UW-Madison, earning a bachelor’s degree in Home Economics.

Betty served as the Extension Home Economist with 4-H responsibilities, initially in Green Lake County and then in Jefferson County, where she remained for the next 32 years, retiring in 1992. She brought educators together for networking and learning opportunities to share programs, build relationships, and strategize ways to meet growing family needs. She also cultivated community connection programs for seasonal farm workers and their families. 

At age 92, Betty’s heart is embedded in the community, as it has been throughout her entire career and into retirement. She was chosen as the City of Milton 2023 Fourth of July Parade Marshal, selected as The Gathering Place Volunteer of the Year, and has been honored for over 40 years of volunteer service by World Dairy Expo. Today, Betty continues volunteering on a regular basis at various local nonprofits, church, and schools and can be found leading by example as worded in the 4-H pledge of heart and hands. By both words and actions, she promotes living a full, enjoyable life with values she still carries from 4-H.