Beverly Bruce was an extension home economist and later a member of the Louisiana Legislature, where she championed the 4-H character education programs. She was instrumental in establishing 4-H Day at the Capitol, which was held for the 6th year in 2008.

Deborah Dees first became involved in the DeSoto 4-H program in 1983 when her two children became members. And she is still active today. After the children's graduation, she remained active as a volunteer advisory and 4-H Foundation Committee member, a 4-H Exchange Trip host and an advocate for securing local governing support for the LSU AgCenter. Mrs. Dees has been extremely successful in helping raise funds for livestock project members and serves as treasurer of the Ark-La-Tex Ag Council that sponsors the sale of champions at the State Fair of Louisiana. She is one of the creators of the DeSoto Parish Livestock Club’s Auction of Goods and Services/Barbeque Dinner, which is a fundraiser to support youth whose animals do not make the sale of champions. More than $56,000 has been raised at this event the past 14 years. Mrs. Dees has combined a successful business as a CPA with civic and community work with the Chamber of Commerce and as chariman of the DeSoto Regional Medical System Foundation. A tree was planted in her honor for her untiring support of DeSoto 4-H at the 2007 Arbor Day program.

Johnny May’s 71 years of contributions to DeSoto Parish 4-H have been memorable and lasting. He was a 4-H member and a 4-H parent, leader and fundraiser. Mr. May is best known for his work on the DeSoto Parish Chamber of Commerce 4-H Committee, through which he raised the awareness of merchants and citizens of the importance of the 4-H youth program. Over the years, his advocacy has provided more than $500,000 for the 4-H Livestock Sale at the Louisiana State Fair, enabling many DeSoto Parish 4-H’ers to continue participation in the livestock projects. Mr. May was honored by the Ark-La-Tex Council with the annual Buyer’s Award in 2008. Mr. Johnny L. May also received the Emeritus Award from the DeSoto Chamber of Commerce, which recognizes citizens or institutions that have made lifetime contributions to improve business and civic life in DeSoto Parish.