At the Ohio 4-H Conference on March 21, three 4-H volunteers were recognized for their contributions to the Ohio 4-H Youth Development program as they were inducted into the Ohio 4-H Hall of Fame. Amy Fleshman, Sherri Martin, and Dan Messaros were formally inducted during the conference’s volunteer luncheon that was held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Thank you to the Ohio 4-H Foundation for sponsoring these awards!
Amy Fleshman, Franklin County
Amy Fleshman has devoted three decades to strengthening Ohio 4-H through exceptional leadership, mentorship, and service at every level of the program. As the longtime organizational volunteer for Fantastic Futures—the largest club in Franklin County—she has created a welcoming environment where hundreds of youth build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. She has expanded countywide service through her leadership of the Walk & Serve Committee, connecting clubs with 165 community organizations and creating nearly 5,000 hands-on service opportunities. Amy has also shaped meaningful camp experiences as an adult staff member, camp co-director, and past lay leader for the 4-H Camp Ohio Board. She contributes statewide through Carving New Ideas Teen Camp and her annual Ohio 4-H Conference presentations. As Franklin County Fairgrounds manager, she continues to advocate for youth, championing safe, inclusive, and educational fair experiences. Through her vision, dedication, and unwavering belief in young people, Amy has made a profound and lasting impact on Ohio 4-H through exceptional leadership, mentorship, and service.
Sherri Martin, Warren County
As the organizational advisor for the Clover Canines 4-H Club, Sherri Martin built the program from the ground up, creating a supportive environment where youth develop communication, perseverance, and leadership skills alongside their dog training work. Her influence extends countywide through her longtime service as Warren County’s dog department and small animal superintendent, and through the first-year dog meetings she created to prepare every new member for success. She has strengthened local programming through her leadership on the 4-H Committee and contributed statewide through her work on the Ohio 4-H Dog Committee and her many years of volunteering at the Ohio State Fair Dog Show. Sherri also founded the Reading with Raider program and developed a therapy dog training initiative that has certified more than 350 dogs, bringing comfort to thousands across Ohio. Through her mentorship, creativity, and unwavering dedication, she has strengthened 4-H at every level and inspired generations of young people to grow, lead, and give back.
Dan Messaros, Lorain County
Dan Messaros was a driving force in Lorain County 4-H for more than three decades, dedicating his time, talent, and leadership to uplifting youth and strengthening the program at every level. As a longtime advisor for the Elyria Family of 4-H’ers, he helped shape the club into a model of positive youth development. Throughout his 48 years as a director of the Lorain County Agricultural Society and official fair photographer, he created cherished traditions that celebrated members’ achievements and built community pride. He and his wife also strengthened the Lorain County 4-H Endowment by donating photography packages for fundraising auctions. His statewide recognition—including being named a “Friend of 4-H” and presenting at the Ohio Fair Managers Convention—helped elevate the program’s visibility. Through mentorship, collaboration, and unwavering positivity, even during personal health challenges, Dan inspired generations of youth and volunteers. His lifelong dedication and belief in the power of youth development have left an enduring mark on Lorain County and Ohio 4-H.
Join us in also congratulating the other award recipients who were recognized at this year’s Ohio 4-H Conference and thanking their sponsors:
4-H Meritorious Service Award, Sponsored by Paul Hall & Associates Foundation
Tricia Durkin, Stark County
Carolyn Garrett, Scioto County
Cheryl Parrish, Lorain County
4-H Innovator Award, Sponsored by Lois Puskarich
Ashtabula County 4-H Advisory Committee
Ava Burrows, Cuyahoga County
Noble County Country Club
4-H Community Service Award, Sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions
Churchtown Busy Bunch 4-H Club, Washington County
Fairfield County Junior Fair Poultry Exhibitors
Wood County 4-H Hands to Larger Service Committee
4-H Experienced Alumni Award, Sponsored by Ron and Carolyn Cull
Marty Kurtz-Orf, Portage County
Sarah Reed, Noble County
Benjamin Wenner, Delaware County
4-H Young Alumni Award, Sponsored by Ron and Carolyn Cull
Kolt Buchenroth, Hardin County
Friend of 4-H Award, Sponsored by The Honorable Frederick D. and Dr. Kathryn C. Pepple
David Baker, Adams County
Patterson Fruit Farm, Geauga County
Andy White, Ashland County