Florida 4-H Hall of Fame

Wendell H. Taylor

Colonel Wendell H. Taylor’s 4-H career began when he was just a young boy in elementary school and his love of 4-H led him to employment with the state 4-H staff while a student. During his years at the University of Florida he worked at Camp Timpoochee and Camp McQuarrie. Throughout his professional career he has been a strong advocate for youth programming in Jackson County. As county administrator he encourages the county commissioners to fund budget requests that support the 4-H program and is a willing volunteer for public speaking and leadership programs. After his career in the military, Colonel Taylor made a conscious decision not to pursue a profitable career in international trade, so he could return to his hometown. As president of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce he led the campaign to have the county designated as a rural federal enterprise community. He secured three million grant dollars for programs targeting low income residents and for improving economic conditions. Taylor was also instrumental in organizing the Jackson County Development Council, which works with grassroots organizations to implement community resource centers, food banks and other economic enrichment programs. Taylor said, “4-H was an enabler. It taught me leadership and public speaking skills, especially the ability to persuade and think on my feet. 4-H gave me confidence and taught me that I could achieve anything I set my mind and heart to do. 4-H multiplied my opportunities.”