Honoring a Legacy: Alden Hilliker’s Posthumous Induction into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame
Florida 4-H recently celebrated the posthumous induction of Alden Hilliker into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the organization. Hilliker served as a state specialist for Florida 4-H at the University of Florida campus, where he played a vital role in shaping the future of youth leadership and education.
Leadership and Impact on 4-H University
One of Hilliker’s most notable achievements was his long-term leadership of the annual Florida 4-H Congress, now known as 4-H University. This week-long event is held at the University of Florida and focuses on leadership development for teenage participants. Through this program, youth gain insights into educational and career opportunities, engage in community service, experience college life, and connect with peers from across the state.
Joy Cantrell Jordan, an associate professor emerita from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ family, youth, and community sciences department, praised Hilliker for his unwavering commitment to making the event meaningful and memorable for thousands of young people. Despite facing budget constraints, he worked tirelessly to preserve the traditions of the event, ensuring that future generations of 4-H members could benefit from his efforts.
“He went to great lengths to secure the best speakers and entertainers for these large gatherings of teenagers, while also paying attention to every detail, from organizing contests to hosting foundation board members and donors,” she said. “This was no small task.”
Building Strong Foundations
Hilliker dedicated a significant portion of his career to staff and program development, which is essential for the success of any organization. He focused on professional development for UF/IFAS Extension county, regional, and state staff, helping them prepare annual work plans, reports of accomplishments, and access resources to support their impactful work within the university system.
Cantrell Jordan emphasized that without Hilliker’s efforts, there would not have been the necessary 4-H agents to ensure the daily operations of Florida 4-H. His work laid the groundwork for a robust and effective program that continues to thrive today.
A Devoted Educator and Mentor
As an educator, Hilliker took his responsibilities seriously, striving to make the programs under his charge both engaging and sustainable. Many of the initiatives he championed still exist today, inspiring generations of graduates who have gone on to achieve great things.
Mary Gail Dufresne, a former state 4-H president and current communicator for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, highlighted Hilliker’s dedication to the core mission of Extension, which is education. She noted that he lived by the philosophy of “learn by doing,” providing Florida 4-H members with countless opportunities to grow and learn through hands-on experiences.
Dufresne shared how her own path in agricultural communications began at 4-H University. She is not alone in this journey—many successful individuals, such as former congressman and current Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam, credit the program with shaping their careers.
“The program Dr. Hilliker devoted himself to leading and protecting changed our lives and many thousands more,” Dufresne said.
Celebrating a Legacy
Hilliker is among six inductees honored this year at a ceremony scheduled for July 31 on the University of Florida campus in Gainesville. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of 4-H members, ensuring that his contributions to youth development and education are remembered and celebrated.
