/ MFB / Nell Ward
A Cass County 4-H volunteer, Ward manages the baby animal barn at the Cass County Fair and leads the Friendly Folks 4-H Club. She is known for her kind spirit and dedication to agricultural education. She coordinates a traveling petting zoo and is particularly skilled at working with youth who feel they don’t fit in with other groups. Leading by example, Ward has been known to donate project animals for youth to show at the fair and takes on many roles as a mentor, educator and friend. Recognized in 1984 as an outstanding 4-H leader, Ward has dedicated more than 40 years to the Cass County Fair’s baby animal barn and was named the fair’s grand marshal in 2006.
4-H has given me the confidence to feel I can accomplish my goals.
— Sydni Specht, Saginaw 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!