2025 North Carolina 4-H Alumni Honored

Bryan Blinson (Lenoir County) – For the past 30 years, Bryan has been the executive director of the North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, and during that time, he’s gone above and beyond to support youth livestock programs and the future of agriculture in the state. Bryan’s dedication to agriculture runs deep. He grew up on a small cattle farm in Lenoir, North Carolina, where his parents still live and farm today at the ages of 85 and 87. He helped raise cattle locally and participated in showing and judging competitions, including the first junior heifer show at the North Carolina State Fair in 1974. 

As the leader of the Cattlemen’s Association, Bryan has worked tirelessly to expand youth livestock programs, giving countless kids the chance to learn valuable skills, gain confidence and build lifelong connections. His family shares his love for agriculture and, together, have helped create a community that celebrates and supports young people interested in cattle and the agriculture industry. Bryan has supported the 4-H Livestock Program through livestock judging, Skillathon, leadership programs, serving as the emcee at the NC State Fair Sale of Champions and countless other times that have helped to provide opportunities to youth in 4-H.

Bryan’s passion for mentoring and helping the next generation makes him more than deserving of this award. His impact will be felt for years to come, both in North Carolina and beyond.

Perry Teeter (recipient of both the Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame awards) – Perry Teeter was a prominent leader in the North Carolina livestock industry, having served in key leadership roles with both the American National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association. Perry was formerly associated with the Harris-Teeter supermarket chain as vice president before returning to his family farm to raise Gelbvieh cattle.

After many years of dedicated leadership on the family farm in Iredell County, Perry and his wife, Doris, encouraged their sons, Lee and Walter, to continue the farming operation in Mooresville while they relocated to a new farm in Alleghany County. The Teeter family played an instrumental role in promoting the growth of the Gelbvieh cattle industry in North Carolina.

Driven by their deep-rooted love for agriculture and the beef cattle industry, Perry and Doris founded the Perry & Doris 4-H Beef Leadership Institute in 2006. This institute was established to help educate and inspire the next generation of beef industry advocates through comprehensive leadership training. The institute has since become a cornerstone event for the 4-H Livestock Program, providing invaluable skills and knowledge to young participants. Perry continued to actively support and attend the event each year until his passing in 2024. His lifelong commitment to the agricultural community leaves a lasting legacy.

The Dale Earnhardt Foundation – Dedicated to continuing the legacy of Dale Earnhardt through charitable endeavors and grants that sustain his lifelong commitment to children, education and environmental preservation, the Dale Earnhardt Foundation has proven a generous ally to the North Carolina 4-H Horse Program, providing a $75,000 contribution for 2024 and an additional $75,000 commitment for 2025, exemplifying this dedication. Its support directly empowers young individuals involved in equine educational activities, fostering growth and opportunity. This funding enables crucial educational and experiential programs, including scholarships for events that provide opportunities that children would not have otherwise had. The Dale Earnhardt Foundation’s focus on children and education aligns perfectly with the 4-H mission, creating a powerful partnership that enriches the lives of North Carolina’s youth. Their commitment to supporting programs like the North Carolina 4-H Horse Program ensures that young people have access to valuable experiences that build character, leadership and essential life skills.

Metrolina Greenhouses – A family-owned company headquartered in Huntersville, North Carolina, Metrolina Greenhouses is recognized as the largest single-site heated greenhouse operation in the United States. With a mission centered on innovation, sustainability and workforce development, Metrolina has cultivated a reputation for excellence in the horticulture industry while maintaining a deep commitment to community engagement and youth development. A steadfast partner of North Carolina 4-H since 2002, Metrolina Greenhouses has contributed more than $75,000 in outright gifts and sponsorships in support of 4-H programs statewide. Its dedication aligns closely with National 4-H’s focus on workforce development, helping to prepare young people for future careers through hands-on learning and leadership opportunities. Metrolina’s continued support provides vital resources that empower youth, enrich educational experiences and open doors to personal and professional growth. Their investment in the future workforce reflects the 4-H mission and strengthens our shared goal of growing the next generation of leaders.

Chandler/Vatavuk Family (Durham County) – Betsy Chandler Vatavuk’s 4-H family legacy spans four generations with many years of volunteer service helping thousands. Betsy and her late husband, Bill, served on the State Board of Directors of the 4-H Development Fund. Betsy was the National 4-H Salute to Volunteer Excellence Award Winner and a National 4-H Canning and Leadership winner. Chandler, Betsy’s son, was a seven-time State 4-H Project Winner and State 4-H Youth Volunteer Winner. Both Betsy and Chandler are State 4-H Honor Club Members. Chandler received the President of the U.S. Community Service Award and the U.S. Jaycees Ten Outstanding Young Americans Award.  Betsy and Chandler were both featured as Tarheels of the Week in the Raleigh News and Observer for their volunteer service. Betsy’s father and mother were active 4-H volunteers for 50 years. For their accomplishments in agriculture, Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies produced a documentary film on their lives. The Vatavuk family has been funding 4-H scholarships for 43 years. Additionally, Chandler gave back to 4-H all of the funds he received from volunteer awards. The Chandler/Vatavuk family has demonstrated the 4-H motto and shown that one family can do their part to make the world a better place.

Chris Barrier (Cabarrus County) – The unsung heroes of NC Cooperative Extension are the members of the support staff. The glue that held together a vibrant, responsive and dedicated extension staff in Cabarrus County for more than four decades was Christine Barrier. Christine joined the then-Agricultural Extension Service in Cabarrus County as the 4-H secretary in 1980. She supported the top 4-H program in the state, including dozens of National 4-H winners, with an unmatched level of professionalism and a huge heart for the community. Think of any Cabarrus County citizen, and Christine can tell you who their parents are, what road they grew up on and where they went to church. She was the unofficial who’s-who database for Cabarrus County.  

Whether typing, on a literal typewriter, cumulative records for 4-Hers, maintaining the extensive inventory of 4-H project books, providing support to countless 4-Hers researching topics for demonstrations and presentations, tracking 4-H club membership before computers, or editing and publishing the monthly 4-H newsletter, Christine’s hand touched and influenced every 4-H’er in the county. When she was promoted to her role as Administrative Assistant, Christine’s love for 4-H’ers and their families continued.  She is a true friend to Extension and 4-H and well deserving of this honor.  

Carla Bundy (Perquimans County) – Carla Bundy has been a pillar of the Perquimans County 4-H program for more than two decades, exemplifying citizenship, leadership and unwavering dedication to youth development in North Carolina. As the coach of the High Achievers Horse Club, she has mentored and guided countless young 4-H’ers to success, leading many of them to earn state titles in equestrian competitions. Beyond these accomplishments, Carla’s influence extends far beyond the arena – she instills in her club members a deep sense of responsibility, sportsmanship and perseverance.

Her leadership has impacted not only Perquimans County but also the broader NC 4-H community. Carla is a State Advisory Council Volunteer for the Northeast District and is known statewide for her contributions to 4-H. She is also particularly skilled at engaging the community and promoting 4-H, ensuring the program’s visibility and growth by actively recruiting participants and encouraging involvement through local events, shows and outreach.

Carla Bundy’s tireless dedication to mentoring and supporting her students through all of life’s struggles, both on and off the horse, has significantly impacted the lives of countless individuals. Her unwavering commitment to the personal development of young people sets her apart and is a key reason for induction into the 4-H Hall of Fame.

Gwen Devane (Duplin County) – Gwendolyn DeVane has been deeply committed to connecting young people throughout Duplin County with the wide range of opportunities available through 4-H. As the long-time coordinator of the Duplin County 4-H Outreach Program, Gwen was its driving force and vocal advocate. Because of her hard work and unparalleled commitment, more than 3,500 Duplin youths have completed 4-H Outreach activities. Yet, Gwen went “many extra miles” beyond the typical workday by also coaching her Outreach Program participants for mainstream 4-H participation. Because of Gwen’s commitment and dedication, hundreds of youths acquired important life skills, demonstrated sportsmanship and perseverance and, best of all, stayed on track to become successful adults.

 A Duplin County 4-H volunteer for decades, Gwen helped 4-H’ers with project records and presentations, with preparations for contests and with participation in 4-H trips, camps and conferences. She raised funds, coordinated transportation and organized events. Her contagious enthusiasm for 4-H was a key factor in her successful recruitment of many other active 4-H volunteers.

Lisa Hanlon (Burke County) – Lisa Hanlon’s dedication to the North Carolina 4-H program shines through her selfless service and commitment to youth development. As an adult volunteer from Burke County, she has led various 4-H clubs over the last 15 years, covering various topics from STEM to Shooting Sports. She ensures that the youth in her county have the resources they need to thrive in 4-H and beyond. She actively encourages 4-H’ers to pursue opportunities at the county, district, state and national levels, providing essential support for success.

Beyond her direct involvement with youth, Lisa assists 4-H Agent Nicki Carpenter and other Extension professionals by organizing events and offering program advice. Her experience and dedication make her a reliable asset to both staff and volunteers. As a member of the West District 4-H and North Carolina 4-H Volunteer Leaders Associations, she has held various officer positions, demonstrating her deep commitment. Lisa’s passion for 4-H extends to her role as a parent, with her son Jacob being an active 4-H’er for nearly 15 years. His accomplishments in 4-H, including serving as a State Officer, are a direct result of Lisa’s support and guidance.

Sue Stulpin (Catawba County) – Sue Stulpin has exemplified dedication, leadership and service during her 16-year tenure as a 4-H volunteer, starting in 2008. Sue’s impact is seen through her roles as a Volunteer Conference of Southern States Advisor, Vice President of the South Central Volunteer Leadership Association (SCVLA) and currently President-Elect for the SCVLA. She also serves as President of the Catawba County Volunteer Leadership Association and has held positions for secretary, treasurer and vice president. She is active in fundraising for these associations, with a focus on scholarships.

As a mentor in Catawba County, Sue has led five 4-H clubs, focusing on STEM, public speaking, two electric clubs and gardening. She currently manages two monthly clubs, empowering teens to lead meetings, develop leadership skills, do oral presentations and write project books and portfolios. Sue ensures that all materials are prepared, spending countless hours supporting youth.

Sue has chaperoned the Electric Congress for nearly eight years and consistently judges project books and portfolios, offering constructive feedback. She volunteers by coaching County teams for the Dinah Gore Healthy Food Challenge and assists at the competitions. She is always the first to volunteer, bringing enthusiasm and expertise to every event. Sue’s legacy in 4-H is defined by her dedication to youth development, leadership and tireless service.

Leslie Dill (New Hanover County) – Past 4-Her, 4-H program assistant, 4-H agent and now 4-H volunteer, Leslie Dill has embodied the pillars of 4-H. She exemplifies the life skills that we desire to instill in 4-H youth, such as organization, clear communication, leadership, kindness and so much more. As a 4-H Volunteer, Leslie is involved as a Club Leader of the 4-H Coastal Clovers Club, an active member of the New Hanover County 4-H Advisory Council and supports the 4-H Program in countless more ways.

The 4-H Program in New Hanover County wouldn’t be what it is now without the foundation laid by Leslie. Leslie is a core member of the NHC Advisory Council, and as such, she has been instrumental in the guidance of the program, putting together events and engaging other volunteers and advisory council members in the support of 4-H. As a 4-H Club leader, she is growing the program for our clover buds, and this past summer, co-led a clover bud camp with the 4-H Staff in the county. Leslie has had a passion for 4-H since she was a child and is now passing on her love of 4-H to not only the next generation of youth in New Hanover County, but also to her children who have become very active members and love 4-H as much as their mom.

Zachery Keeter (Halifax County) – Zach Keeter has been an invaluable asset to North Carolina 4-H through his involvement in multiple key programs. He has served as a trainer, judge, ring leader and announcer at numerous 4-H Poultry and Livestock Shows, sharing his expertise and helping 4-H’ers develop their skills. He has also led many workshops focused on poultry, livestock and leadership, furthering his commitment to youth education.

In the Dinah Gore 4-H Healthy Food Challenge, Zach has played a significant role since the first in-person event. As a committee member, co-organizer and part of the operations team, he has assisted the state specialist in every aspect of the event, from creating promotional materials and planning logistics to managing the event on competition day.

Zach’s contributions extend to Halifax County, where he took the lead in revitalizing the 4-H Rural Life Center’s summer day camp after the departure of the former camp director. He continues to support the camp, offering his expertise to keep its programming fresh and relevant for participants.

Beth Pugh Farrell (Alleghany County) – Beth Pugh Farrell is a 4-H alumnus from Alleghany County and an Honor Club member. Beth’s time in 4-H was filled with participation in leadership and public speaking activities, such as serving as the County Council President, NW District Reporter and member of the 4-H TRY-IT team. Her experience growing up on her grandparents’ farms and love of 4-H was a catalyst for her passion for advocating for the agricultural industry. Her 4-H skills and love of agriculture led Beth to seek election, and she now serves as the chair of the Board of Supervisors for the Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District. Beth is an outspoken advocate for agriculture and the impact that 4-H has had on her life whenever possible. She is proud of the influence 4-H has had on her career, her love of NC State and her passion to serve her community.

The skills learned through 4-H have also translated into her professional career working at the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, where she promotes agriculture and works as an Agricultural Program Development Coordinator. Outside of the office, she and her husband, Kevin, own and operate Pack House Farm in Apex. Beth continues to give back to 4-H each year by helping to serve Honor Club during its annual new member tapping ceremony at 4-H Congress, and giving back to the NC 4-H program in various other ways throughout the year.