Karen Hinton, dean and director emeritus of Extension, and current Carson City resident was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame Oct. 12, for her lifetime achievements and contributions to 4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization that develops citizenship, leadership, responsibility and life skills in youth through experiential learning.
“Karen truly used her career in 4-H and Extension to try to make a positive impact on people’s lives,” Nevada 4-H Director Carrie Stark said. “She is respected by Extension and 4-H leaders across the country for her innovation, hard work and passion for serving our country’s youth.”
Hinton began her 31-year Extension career in 1981, working first as an Extension home economist in Douglas County, and then as an Extension educator in Carson City. She soon moved up the ranks to the position of western area director, overseeing all Extension programs and operations for Washoe, Douglas and Storey Counties, and Carson City. In 1998, she became the dean and director of Extension, overseeing all Extension operations, statewide. She retired in 2012, after serving as the University’s longest-serving female dean.
In retirement, Hinton continues to be an avid supporter of 4-H and Extension.