Reno Reporter

A 34-year volunteer at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), Extension was among four individuals across the country to be honored with the Outstanding 4-H Lifetime Volunteer award.

UNR alumna Linda Zimmerman was named the 4-H Western Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer at the 4-H Salute to Excellence Awards ceremony, a recent news release from the university said. She was recognized for her work with the Washoe County Extension 4-H Horse Program that helps children throughout the state.

“Linda is incredibly grounded, is very reliable, has a high moral character and is someone that everyone enjoys working with,” Kelsey Conklin, 4-H Youth Development community-based instructor in Washoe County, who nominated Zimmerman for the award, said in the release. “She excels at helping others grow into leadership positions and helps to support them. She embodies respect for all those around her, setting the standard and example.”

Carrie Stark, Nevada 4-H state director, praised Zimmerman for her commitment to connecting with young members.

“Linda understands some youth may struggle in different areas as they join 4-H or try to engage in activities or projects,” Stark said in the release. “She goes above and beyond to assist them, finding a way to help them with extra time, resources and meetings to overcome their struggles. She exemplifies positive youth-adult partnerships.”

The university reported that for 30 years Zimmerman has overseen horse shows as the 4-H horse leader for the Silver Knolls Spurs in Washoe County and also served for 15 years on both the Washoe County 4-H Horse Leaders’ Council and the General Washoe County Leaders’ Council.

“Linda shaped my love for the equine industry by providing countless members the opportunity to expand their knowledge with numerous clinics and 4-H horse shows she put on,” Rebecca Glocknitzer, a past member of Zimmerman’s horse club, said in the release. “My most cherished memories were showing at the Nevada State Fair horse show in every class possible with my horse Louie. I am very thankful for the opportunities Linda provided me for many years!”