ALLENTOWN, Pa. — A Berks County couple has been chosen winners of Lehigh County 4-H’s 2025 Friend of 4-H Award.
Roger and Nancy Bowman, of Lenhartsville, were given the award because “their long-standing commitment to agriculture and youth development has made a significant impact on 4-H members across Berks and Lehigh counties,” according to a Tuesday news release.
The pair, both retired teachers, served as Berks County 4-H leaders for more than 30 years and helped with the Lehigh County 4-H Livestock Club alongside their grandsons.
“Roger and Nancy have supported Lehigh County 4-H in two key areas: leadership at local fairs and hands-on education for youth."Lehigh County 4H
“Roger and Nancy have supported Lehigh County 4-H in two key areas: leadership at local fairs and hands-on education for youth,” according to the release.
“For 20 years, they have served as the sheep and goat superintendents at the Allentown Fair and assist[ed] with sheep and goat registration at the Schnecksville Fair.
"They have also taught thousands of Allentown elementary students during the Allentown Fair Agricultural Day, providing educational sessions on sheep and wool.”
Farmers, exhibitors, volunteers
The Bowmans, who in 1973 bought their Lenhartsville farm, have raised a variety of livestock, later focusing on purebred Corriedale and Dorset sheep.
They exhibit their animals and wool fleeces at events including Allentown Fair, York Fair, Keystone International Livestock Expo and the Pennsylvania Farm Show, officials said.
They also serve as directors of the Berks County Sheep and Wool Growers Association and have been involved with the Pennsylvania Corriedale Association.
“In 2022, they launched an annual shawl project with the Lehigh County 4-H Livestock Club,” officials said. “They donate yarn, equipment and instruction, allowing members to complete a full sheep to shawl experience.
“The shawls are auctioned at the club’s Round-Up Sale and have raised a total of $9,550 for eight local charities over the past four years.”
The pair also has hosted workshops on wool grading, wool judging and sheep breed characteristics for 4-H livestock and skillathon teams across the state.
“Their commitment to agricultural education has strengthened the knowledge and confidence of many 4-H youth,” officials said.
Residents with children interested in joining Lehigh County 4-H, can contact Extension Educator Kelly M. Weisner at 610-391-9840 or kmb26@psu.edu. Parents can also register a child online for 4-H online, choosing Lehigh as the county.
