Connie grew up on a farm east of Ludlow, IL. She attended Paxton schools and was a member of the Ludlow Merry Busy Bees 4-H Club. She enjoys working with youth and says that 4-H has taught her responsibility and the importance of helping others. Connie was a 4-H leader for 15 years with the Walltown 4-H Club in Paxton, IL. She has assisted her husband, Rodney with his Beef Superintendent roles with the Ford County Junior & Open Beef Shows and 4-H Beef Show duties since 2001. She was also a member of the 4-H Born & Raised and 4-H Livestock Sale Committees. Connie is passionate about 4-H because she thinks it is a great program for youth that lets them learn by doing. It is not only for the kids but for the whole family. She is proud that her grandkids are actively involved in 4-H and hopes that some of her inspiration encouraged them to be a part of such a great program.