Pam Clodfelter of Sterling, Nikki Freeman of Franklin Grove, and Annette and Greg Gruhn of Mt. Carroll were nominated for their commitment to the organization and the youth 4-H serves.
Pam Clodfelter has been a dedicated Whiteside County 4-H volunteer for 13 years, mentoring youth and strengthening the program through her steady commitment and service. As a leader of the Genesee Hillbillies, she created a welcoming environment where members grew in confidence, responsibility, and life skills. She also served on the Swine Committee, University of Illinois Extension Council, and as a longtime 4-H Show judge, offering thoughtful guidance to exhibitors.
Nikki Freeman has been a dedicated and welcoming leader of the AFC Aggies 4-H Club in Lee County for seven years. She organizes pumpkin decorating at Ashton’s Fall Festival, ensuring all youth can participate, and empowers older members to run the club meetings, helping them build confidence and leadership skills. Known for her positivity, preparedness and genuine connections with each member, she quickly learns new names and makes everyone feel at home. Nikki’s commitment and enthusiasm make her an exceptional 4-H leader.
Greg and Annette Gruhn have been devoted to 4-H since their youth, carrying that passion into decades of service. Greg grew up in the Lanark Larkers and earned Grand Champion Steer at the 1975 Chicago International Livestock Exposition. Annette led the Belle Plaine Hustlers 4-H Club, served as a 4-H Fair Queen, and won Senior Beef Showmanship at the 1979 Illinois State Fair. Married in 1985, the couple spent 21 years leading the Lanark Clever Clovers and have long supported the Carroll County Beef Committee and Youth in Agriculture Foundation. Their dedication continues to strengthen 4-H and local agriculture.
The four volunteers will be recognized in a ceremony at noon, August 16, in the Orr Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.
