Agent Camille Jessee is the statewide winner of the 2015 Alice Ann Moore Award for 35 years of work with the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture Extension, primarily as Carter County 4-H agent.
She received the award in Knoxville at UTIA’s annual Awards and Promotions luncheon, where more than 30 people were recognized and presented gifts from alumni, former faculty and friends of the Institute.
Jessee’s experience with 4-H has opened doors to youth who would not otherwise have the educational and recreational opportunities offered through 4-H activities, competitions and fundraisers. She has organized scholarship opportunities for students to attend summer camp and 4-H Congress.
The four H’s stand for Head, Heart, Health and Hands, and the club’s purpose is to help youth and adults work in partnership for community progress, service work, healthy living and clear thinking.
Jessee’s students participate in a variety of service activities as well as attending 4-H competitions. They raised thousands of dollars for a program called Feasts of Joy which supports victims of domestic violence, and they also make cards for residents of nursing homes and servicemen and women abroad.
Her involvement connects students with educational, vocational and technological opportunities and people in those fields, and many say she is an example of the personal and professional connections that 4-H can provide to its constituents.
Jessee has been involved with a program that helps young women enter the technology field in the Appalachian region and actively recruits and trains young members of the Appalachian Fair Board, with which many 4-Hers are involved. She has also led judging teams in the fields of forestry, livestock, meats, wildlife and consumer decision-making.
“My work is all about providing an educational opportunity for the youth of Carter County,” Jessee said. “It’s especially an honor to receive this award from Alice Ann Moore. I’ve known Alice Ann since I started working in 4-H, and she’s a valued mentor to me.”
Alice Ann Moore, former director of UT Extension 4-H youth development programs, has served UTIA for over 30 years, is an honorary member of the Tennessee 4-H foundation and was even involved as a child growing up in Crockett County.
Like Moore, Jessee sees the value in the program first-hand and has continued her involvement for the advancement of Carter County youth.