Lawrence County woman to be inducted into 4-H Hall of Fame

Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 1:30 PM

By Steve Anderson

Illinois Extension serving Lawrence, Edwards, Richland, Wabash, and Wayne counties in southeastern Illinois has announced its 2026 inductees to the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame and one of them is from Lawrence County.

Congratulations to Deb Weger. Over the last 28 years, she has served as the Russell Community 4-H Club leader and has supported Lawrence County 4-H general projects and livestock shows.

Also nominated for induction is Lara Kocher from Richland County. She is a former 4-H member and a third-generation club leader. She has been the volunteer leader of the Country Clovers Club for nine years and counting.

Richard Gochenour of Wabash County will also be inducted. He has been instrumental in building, updating, and maintaining the horse arena at the Wabash County fairgrounds and has helped install drainage tile and a new announcer's booth at that location.

All were selected for their outstanding contributions to their county 4-H programs and will be recognized at a ceremony during their county exhibit day on Saturday, August 15th at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.