Amanda Marquardt’s leadership and 4-H engagement at the county level and beyond led her to be named a 2024 Illinois 4-H Alumni Award winner.
Amanda has been deeply involved in 4-H for most of her life, beginning at the age of 8 when she joined the Moonlight Boys & Girls 4-H Club, focusing on rabbit, poultry, and goat projects. She was a member for 11 years and received many notable 4-H recognitions, including the I DARE YOU Award and the 4-H Premier LCP Award in 2001. Her leadership roles extended into her college years at the University of Illinois, where she joined the Collegiate 4-H Club and served as Secretary from 2004-2006, being named the Outstanding Collegiate 4-H Club Member in 2006.
Her involvement in 4-H fueled her passion for agriculture, leading her to major in Animal Science in college and pursue a career in veterinary medicine. In her professional role, She has worked as a veterinary technician and business manager at Bellson Animal Hospital for 17 years, gaining recognition for her expertise in rabbit care. Jeff Clinebell, Veterinarian and Owner of Bellson Animal Hospital stated, “Amanda continues to be our most valuable, and most flexible, employee. Her honesty, her work ethic and her dedication are simply beyond compare.”
After aging out of 4-H, Amanda became a co-leader of her 4-H club, continuing in this role for 21 years. Her 4-H club engages in community service projects like sending care packages to military members and participating in food drives. Lexi Mueller, a past 4-H member, stated, “Amanda bestowed a dedication to service in my life and her passion for helping others is contagious”
Amanda's leadership and community service skills, gained through 4-H, have helped her serve in various capacities, including as Director of the National Mini Rex Rabbit Club, Director of the Illinois Rabbit Breeders Association, and Secretary of the Illinois Mini Rex Rabbit Club.
Amanda's dedication to 4-H and the skills she developed have significantly influenced her personal and professional life. She continues to raise and show rabbits, conducting workshops and judging 4-H rabbit shows. In 2022, she received The 4-H Award of the Diamond Clover for her 20 years of service as a 4-H Leader. Amanda is also actively involved in various community and agricultural organizations, including serving as Livestock Superintendent at the Monroe County Fair since 2002.
Congratulations Amanda!