The 2003 Friend of 4-H award was presented to John Huston, retired executive vice president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association of Chicago, for his numerous contributions and support, including service as Chair of the Chancellor’s Commission on Extension and member of Extension Partners.

Cargill, Inc., and Farm Credit Services of Illinois were named 4-H Partners. Both organizations have long partnered with the Illinois 4-H Program.

The Clarence & Mabel (Mohr) Ropp Family was recognized as the 2003 Illinois 4-H Family Spirit Award recipients. They and their descendents are long-term volunteers with the Linden Lead 'Em 4-H Club in McLean County. Thirteen different family members have served as 4-H club leaders in McLean and Livingston Counties for more than 350 cumulative years of service. Eight members of the family are currently 4-H club leaders.

Representatives of more than 400,000 Illinois 4-H members and leaders from across the state helped to celebrate Salute to Agriculture Day at the University of Illinois.