AMES, IA – Shelby County Extension Educator Mary Taggs was honored in October when she received the Iowa 4-H Distinguished Service Award. The award is presented to county staff members who have been in their positions between four and ten years and who have made a difference for the Iowa 4-H program.

The award ceremony was held October 30th in Ames, Iowa as a part of the annual YouthFest conference which brings together Iowa State University Extension and Outreach staff from all over the state to celebrate the work they are doing and participate in workshops and educational opportunities in the field of 4-H youth development.

“This event provides an opportunity for all of us to learn about significant impacts our
4-H staff are making in their local communities and to celebrate those accomplishments,” 4-H staff recognition committee chair Brenda Allen said.

Taggs was recognized in part for her work with the Maker Space program which helps 2nd -6th graders develop their problem-solving and cooperation skills.  Maker Space takes place on no school days in the Harlan school district.  Participants engage in challenges each day that encourage thought, design, creativity and a LOT of fun!  Taggs has been instrumental in acquiring grant funding to support the program.  The program began from a grant award from the STEM Scale-up Program sponsored by the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council.  The program continues due to the generous funding from Monogram Loves Kids.

“She encourages life-long learning as she provides youth opportunities to make their own decisions and be creative,” one nominator said.

To find out more about Taggs and the work she is doing for Iowa youth, contact the Shelby County ISU Extension and Outreach office by visiting the county webpage at www.extension.iastate.edu/shelby