Larry DeVuyst

County: Gratiot
Class Years: 2002
Title:

“[4-H] contributed to my leadership abilities by adding a level of confidence and by surrounding me with the kind of people who helped shape a positive attitude. 4-H taught me the importance of helping other people and respecting other people’s values and opinions.”

Michigan Representative Larry DeVuyst was for 30 years a successful pork and cash crop producer in Ithaca. This success is reflected in his community and industry leadership. He has been an active member and president of the Gratiot County Farm Bureau and state director and executive committee member of the Michigan Farm Bureau. He founded the Gratiot County Pork Producers Association, was vice-chair of the Michigan Pork Producers and was a member of the Michigan Pork Council. Today he owns the DeVuyst Game Ranch in Lometa, Texas. His natural resources interests have served him in both his public and community service. He was a member and chaired the Michigan Natural Resource Commission for four years. He founded, and chaired for two years, the Mid-Michigan Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. As a state legislator, he chairs the Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Committee of the Michigan House of Representatives. He is an honored supporter of Central Michigan University’s Public Television and the Gratiot Community Foundation. His many awards include the Distinguished Service Award from Montcalm Community College, the Michigan State Chamber Legislator Award and the DNR Legislator Recognition Award.

More in this Section

Jordan Davis, Berrien County

4-H started with dogs but has transformed into something much more. I can be an active member in group projects and I have become a better person altogether. I am so grateful to have had a 4-H experience that impacted me so much. I don’t know what my life would be without the wonderful opportunity of 4-H.

— Jordan Davis, Berrien County

Sponsor a Brick

Become a permanent part of the Michigan 4-H Children's Garden by sponsoring a brick! Bricks can be donated in your name; in honor of a family, friend or club; or in memory of loved ones. Learn more: Sponsor a brick!.

2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award Winners

he Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas. 2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award winners pictured include Robert Richards (left) and Jennifer Specht (right). Click on the button below to view all of the 2024 4-H Legacy Award winners!