/ ECS / Michael D. Pridgeon
Another impact 4-H provided was the role model volunteer leaders set forth as an example to serve a good cause. Volunteering is a gift given to improve the quality of life in the world in which we live. I know of no other organization that teaches the success of volunteerism as well as 4-H.
California Corners and Algansee 4-H Boosters 4-H club member, Michael Pridgeon is an MSU graduate with a bachelors degree in animal husbandry and a masters in agricultural economics. As a youth, he participated in dairy projects, the MSU Kellogg Young Farmer Study Program and was a member on the livestock judging team in college as an outcome of his 4-H experience. Today, Pridgeon is a sixth generation farmer and is co-partner with his brother of Pridgeon Farms, a 60,000 sow to finish swine operation with in excess of 3,000 acres in Montgomery, Mich. Pridgeon served as a Michigan 4-H Foundation trustee from 1977 to 1989. During his tenure he served as the foundations president, vice president, immediate past president, and as a member of the program committee. He has continued to remain a strong supporter of 4-H, as a donor to the foundation for 30 years. Pridgeon served on the Michigan State Board of Veterinary Medicine from 1997 to 2006, was a Michigan Farm Bureau State Board of Director from 1977 to 1986 and served as Branch County Farm Bureau president from 1969 to 1976. He also chaired the Branch County Republican Party for 10 years and was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1992. Since 1999, Pridgeon has been on the steering committee for the Branch County Relay for Life. His other affiliations include Century Bank and Trust, Community Health Center of Branch County, Community Health Center Foundation, and St. Marks Episcopal Church.
Because of 4-H I can be who I want to be. I am grateful for having the opportunities to do what I love.
— Natalie Milford, Chippewa County
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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!