Retired 4-H Program Leader
Dale Leidheiser’s county, state, and national work contributed to the development of youth, volunteers, and Extension staff through developing educational frameworks, strategies for financial support, and recognition programs.
He identified the 2014 4-H Centennial as an opportunity to build relationships, and through this, the Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame was developed under his state leadership. This recognition program has honored 250+ individuals since 2014 for significant contributions to 4-H programming.
Dale’s leadership for health programming benefited both individuals and communities. He chaired the WI 4-H Health Team from 1981-1985, working closely with the State 4-H Specialist to implement a computer-based Body Awareness Resource Network, a program for teens designed to get research-based feedback on body image issues.
In Columbia County, he worked with the County 4-H Leaders Association to educate volunteers and youth through project training, club/group support, and leadership experiences. This county work gave Dale the experience needed for state and national impact.
Almost 40 years of work in 4-H Youth Development gave Dale many opportunities to program in personal areas of interest. He developed a series of outdoor education and camping experiences, as Upham Woods was just over the Columbia County border, making it easy to collaborate with their staff. He was appointed to the Upham Woods Committee by the Extension Dean/Director Gale Vandeberg where he was able to share his leadership and camping expertise.
Find Other Hall of Fame Honorees