Each month, we highlight an Ohio 4-H alum who has an amazing story to share—from their personal experience in 4-H, to how they have given back to the program. This month, we feature Debi Heppe, a proud alumna of Portage County 4-H who continues to give back to the program as an adult volunteer.
As the youngest of five siblings, with a father active on the Portage County Beef Committee, joining 4-H was a natural step for Heppe. Over her nine years in the program, she exhibited beef projects, explored sewing, participated on the livestock judging team, and served on the Junior Fair Board.
“Memories come back as friends and family,” reflects Heppe. “The people I was with in 4-H have become my family and lifelong friends.” Today, as a 4-H alumna and Junior Fair Board advisor, she continues to build on those memories with the individuals she surrounds herself with.
Through 4-H demonstrations, Heppe developed strong public speaking skills. While working at Kent State and the local high school, a speech teacher once remarked that she could always identify which students were 4-H members—by their confidence, respect, and communication. The program also taught Heppe goal setting, organization, and the belief that she could accomplish more than she imagined. These skills build lasting confidence throughout her life.
As an advisor, Heppe recalls a shy Junior Fair Board member who stood out to her. Over time, they grew into a confident leader because of 4-H and eventually became the president of the board and a skilled public speaker. “That’s the power of 4-H,” she says.
Today, Heppe serves as the Portage County Livestock Committee Treasurer and is a part of a farm family that has a focus on growing grains and soybeans. She spent 14 years on the Portage County Fair Board and has served as a Junior Fair Board advisor in the past.
Her children were active 4-H members, and now her grandchildren are active 4-H’ers who exhibit lambs, pigs, and goats at the fair. Heppe continues to give back by being a county resource leader, junior fair coordinator, mentor to new educators, and a guide in animal science and fair operations.
One of Heppe’s most influential 4-H volunteers was Dan Tronge, her club advisor and founder of the Portage County livestock judging team. In recognition of his impact, Heppe nominated him for the Ohio 4-H Hall of Fame—and years later, he returned the honor by nominating her.
Heppe was inducted into the Ohio 4-H Hall of Fame in 2011, honoring her years of service to the Portage County 4-H community. She believes that 4-H instills responsibility and resilience. “When things don’t go right,” she says, “you learn just as much from those failures as you do from your successes.”
Heppe’s advice to current members: “Try everything, even if you are scared.” She encourages youth to explore all that 4-H offers, knowing it can shape their future. “There’s a project for everyone, even self-determined ones.” Her own children used their 4-H experiences to guide their careers and volunteer work, continuing the legacy of growth and service.