By Andi Anderson
Dr. Julie Chapin of Portland, Michigan, has been awarded the prestigious Michigan 4-H Citation Award, the highest recognition presented by Michigan 4-H Youth Development. The honor was presented during the 2026 Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration, hosted by Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan 4-H Foundation at the MSU University Club in Lansing.
The Citation Award recognizes individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and support have significantly strengthened Michigan 4-H and positively influenced the lives of young people across the state. Established in 1946, the award honors those who have made exceptional contributions to youth development and the growth of 4-H programs.
Chapin has dedicated more than 40 years to supporting Michigan youth through leadership, education, volunteer development, advocacy, and philanthropy. Her lifelong commitment to positive youth development has helped expand opportunities for countless young people while strengthening Michigan 4-H programs at the local, state, and national levels.
An Ottawa County 4-H alumna and member of the 4-H Emerald Clover Society, Chapin began her career with Michigan State University Extension in 1981 as a 4-H youth agent. She later served as a youth animal science specialist and state 4-H program leader for volunteer development. Throughout her career, she held key leadership positions that helped shape the direction of Michigan 4-H.
In 2010, Chapin became the inaugural director of MSU Extension's Children and Youth Institute. She also served as the state leader for Michigan 4-H and secretary of the Michigan 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees. Her leadership helped advance educational programs, strengthen volunteer engagement, and expand opportunities for youth across Michigan.
Following her retirement in 2018, Chapin continued to support the organization. She returned in 2022 to once again lead the Children and Youth Institute and Michigan 4-H during a period of growth and transition. Her guidance helped the organization continue its mission while preparing for future success.
Chapin has also played a prominent role in fundraising and resource development. Since 2022, she has chaired the Michigan 4-H Foundation's Resource Development Committee and contributed strategic leadership to the Beyond Ready Campaign Core Committee. Her efforts have helped strengthen support for Michigan 4-H and ensure long-term program sustainability.
Along with her husband, Larry, Chapin has actively supported endowment development and established the Julie A. and Larry T. Chapin Endowment Fund. Their contributions demonstrate a strong commitment to preserving and expanding opportunities for future generations of 4-H members.
The Citation Award recognizes Chapin's exceptional leadership, advocacy, volunteer service, and philanthropic contributions. Her work has helped secure resources, strengthen educational programs, and inspire young people throughout Michigan.
At the awards celebration, Dr. Thomas Coon and Sandra Clarkson Stuckman also received Michigan 4-H Citation Awards. Additional recognition was given to Emerald Clover Society inductees, scholarship recipients, outstanding volunteers, agricultural leaders, longtime 4-H supporters, and retiring staff members.
Through decades of service, Dr. Julie Chapin has become a respected leader and advocate for youth development. Her dedication has strengthened Michigan 4-H, empowered young people, and helped ensure the organization remains well-positioned to serve future generations.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, General