Roger and Nancy Bowman Honored with 2025 Friend of 4-H Award

BREAKING NEWS: Roger and Nancy Bowman of Lenhartsville have been awarded the prestigious 2025 Friend of 4-H Award by Lehigh County 4-H, recognizing their decades-long commitment to agriculture and youth development that has profoundly impacted 4-H members across Berks and Lehigh counties. This significant honor was just announced, highlighting their tireless efforts in shaping future generations.

For over 30 years, the Bowmans have served as dedicated 4-H leaders, now actively contributing to the Lehigh County 4-H Livestock Club alongside their grandsons. Their influence as retired educators has fostered a rich environment for youth engagement in agriculture. Purchasing their farm in 1973, they have raised various livestock, focusing on purebred Corriedale and Dorset sheep in recent years.

The Bowmans have showcased their animals and wool fleeces at major events like the Allentown Fair, York Fair, and the Pennsylvania Farm Show. Their roles extend beyond just exhibiting; they are also directors of the Berks County Sheep and Wool Growers Association and key members of the Pennsylvania Corriedale Association.

For two decades, Roger and Nancy have spearheaded educational initiatives, serving as sheep and goat superintendents at the Allentown Fair while assisting with registration at the Schnecksville Fair. Their hands-on approach to education has reached thousands of elementary students during the Allentown Fair Agricultural Day, where they provide enlightening sessions on sheep and wool.

In an exciting new initiative launched in 2022, the Bowmans introduced an annual shawl project with the Lehigh County 4-H Livestock Club. They generously donate yarn, equipment, and expertise, facilitating a full sheep-to-shawl experience for club members. The resulting shawls are auctioned at the club’s Round-Up Sale, raising an impressive $9,550 for eight local charities over the past four years.

Their commitment to agricultural education has not only enriched the knowledge of 4-H youth but has also instilled confidence and leadership skills that resonate throughout the community. The Bowmans have hosted workshops on wool grading, wool judging, and sheep breed characteristics, further enhancing the skill sets of 4-H livestock and skillathon teams across the state.

This recognition of Roger and Nancy Bowman underscores the vital role individuals play in fostering youth development through agriculture. Their legacy continues to inspire both current and future generations involved in 4-H.

For those interested in joining 4-H, contact Kelly Weisner, Extension Educator for 4-H/Youth Development, at 610-391-9840 or via email at [email protected]. Registration is available online at https://4h.zsuite.org/, with options for both Lehigh and Berks counties.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Bowmans’ impactful work and the continued success of the 4-H program in our communities.