Awards and Promotions - 2005

The Lloyd and Nettie Downen Endowment Fund
Leadership Enhancement Award

(Pictured at Left: Dr. Norman, Patrick Hamilton, Buddy Mitchell)

Award Description

Established by Dr. and Mrs. M. Lloyd Downen, Dean Emeritus of the Agricultural Extension Service, this award recognizes Extension faculty members who serve in leadership roles across the state.

Citation

We’re not sure if Patrick Hamilton would be the youngest-ever winner of the Downen Award – but his exemplary work rivals that of any Extension veteran. He is an Extension specialist in 4-H. His work focuses on service learning projects, volunteer development, youth leadership and youth-adult partnerships.

The Tennessee 4-H program includes more than 17,000 volunteers, and reaches nearly 400,000 youth statewide. Patrick supports the volunteer program through curriculum development, technical assistance, training sessions and web-based literature. He plans to begin his pursuit of his Ph.D. soon, and co-workers rave about his attitude and work ethic. Our winner will be using the funds from this award to attend a conference titled the “Art of Leadership” to further enhance his skills.