Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

The Honorable Bill Nelson

A fifth-generation Floridian, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson was active as a youth in the 4-H program and continued contributing to 4-H as an adult. As a Brevard County 4-H Foundation Member he has helped raise thousands of dollars to fund scholarships for deserving 4-H boys and girls to attend camp, short course, congress and legislature. As a state legislator and state treasurer he opened his doors to youth who wanted to visit and learn about the state government process. He was always ready to teach 4-H youth and leaders about the processes of government. As a legislator he was a strong advocate for funding of the UF/IFAS Extension Service programs at state and federal levels. In the U.S. House Representatives he worked diligently to stop oil drilling off the coast of Florida and underwent intensive training to fly as a crewmember on the 24th  flight of the space shuttle. Senator Nelson said “Florida 4-H provided me with an early training in government and politics. I am a much stronger and better person because of the many positive experiences I had in 4-H.” His roots are deep in 4-H and his faithful service at all levels of the 4-H program has had a profound impact on Florida 4-H. He has brought much honor and dignity to the 4-H program.