Marie Hammer

Marie Hammer began her 4-H career as a 4-H member in Louisiana involved in leadership, canning, clothing, electricity, gardening and home improvement projects. This was just the start of a 50 year 4-H career that impacted hundreds of youth in Florida.

Hammer attended college on the National 4-H Club Canning Scholarship and graduated with a bachelors in Home Economics Education. She later received her masters in Home Economics.

Hammer provided leadership to 4-H youth within each of her program areas by developing strong programs and securing grants for research. She developed displays, workshops and printed materials in addition to judging posters, demonstrations, and coordinating county and state events.

"The National 4-H Canning Scholarship enabled me to begin college. My participation in 4-H provided the incentive to be an extension professional and has provided opportunities and opened doors for me I never dreamed existed," Hammer said.

Hammer helped build the University of Florida's Department of Family, Youth and Community Services and helped launch the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program by putting together policies, procedures, and educational materials to be used nationally. She has served with distinction and is highly recognized and honored for her professional contributions.