Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

Florida 4-H Hall of Fame *B.J. Allen*

B. J. Allen secured a personal loan at age 11 to purchase and raise a Guernsey heifer. He served as an officer in his one room school club and won many local, area and state awards. Allen continued with his interest in 4-H and pursued a college degree receiving the first master’s degree presented in Agricultural Extension at the University of Florida. After his active 4-H career he has continued to serve as a leader and advisor in 4-H. Allen established a $500 annual endowed scholarship through the Florida 4-H Foundation to assist 4-H agents in programming. Allen was one of the most visible professional images in Florida 4-H over a thirty-year period. His professional knowledge and skills combined with a willingness to serve made him a choice contact for county and staff specialist. He developed programs and secured sponsorship for many activities for Florida 4-H members. Allen was a 4-H agent in Palm Beach County followed by military service, and was known by many of his co-workers as “Mr. 4-H”. “4-H has been my life,” Allen said. “The only part of my life that’s more important to me than 4-H has been my family and church. The greatest reward has been letters and comments from former 4-H members and friends regarding my influence on them.”