PULLMAN, Wash. — Cora Johnsen, the longest serving 4-H volunteer leader in Washington, has been inducted posthumously into the Washington state 4-H Hall of Fame.
Johnsen, who made her home in Kelso, devoted 60 years to the Cowlitz County 4-H program, carrying more than one club as well as continuously helping start others.
In the 1950s Johnsen started a club called the Bachelors and Spinsters, a co-ed group. Their projects were cooking and homemaking as well as public service projects and plenty of recreation.
All of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been active in 4-H.
Johnsen died on Jan. 1, 2004. Her family was presented her 60-year service pin at her funeral.
A total of 122 people have been inducted into the State 4-H Hall of Fame since it was created in 2001.
The Washington State University Extension 4-H program is a community of young people who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. Adult leaders are integral to its success. 4-H’er’s participate in such projects and programs as animal science, the Know Your Government Conference, Science Camp-in, technology, photography and in cultural exchanges.
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