by MEREDITH BAUER, UF/IFAS
Florida 4-H is proud to announce the induction of Roy Carter, a retired Gulf County University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension director, into the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame. Carter has been an advocate for youth in agriculture for more than four decades.
Carter made history in 1979 as the first Black county Extension director in Florida. Over his 36-year career with UF/IFAS Extension, he built a program that has served thousands of youth and families. His programming included launching the Big River Riders Horse Club, leading livestock judging teams and pioneering school gardening programs.
“Roy Carter embodies the spirit of 4-H,” said Heather Kent, Northwest Extension District interim director. “His dedication to helping youth ‘find their spark’ has created a legacy of service and success that will benefit Florida’s agricultural community for years to come.”
Carter’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. He secured grants to fund summer enrichment programs in sports and agriculture, organized annual 4-H camps at Camp Timpoochee and championed youth participation in state and national leadership events, including 4-H Legislature and Citizenship Washington Focus in Washington D.C. His commitment to hands-on learning and civic engagement has helped generations of youth develop life skills, confidence and a deep appreciation for agriculture, Kent said.
Even in retirement, Carter remains a vital force in his community. He continues to mentor youth, support school gardening projects and lead programs like Gulf County’s annual Agriculture Day.
“He has mentored numerous youths in 4-H projects of their interests and continues providing guidance as he demonstrates the 4-H motto: to make the best better,’” said Jean McMillian, a longtime 4-H leader and a 2017 Hall of Fame inductee. “He remains a pillar of his community.”
Carter is one of six inductees this year who will be honored at a ceremony on July 31 at the University of Florida’s campus in Gainesville.
Provided by UF/IFAS