Whether she is helping a young 4-H’er prepare a record book, announcing a livestock show or helping maintain a school garden, Denise Tulloh has spent more than two decades creating opportunities for youth to learn, lead and serve.

Tulloh, of Cotton County, was named the Oklahoma 4-H Lifetime Volunteer of the Year during the Oklahoma Conference on Volunteerism at Oklahoma State University. She was also recognized as the West District 4-H Lifetime Volunteer of the Year. The awards honor volunteers with more than 10 years of service to Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development.

A former 4-H’er, Tulloh began volunteering when her own child became interested in joining the program. Recognizing a need for a club connected to the local school system, she worked with Extension educators to establish the Walters Afterschool 4-H Club, which later became the Walters 4-H Club. Since then, she has served as club leader for more than 20 years.

“I volunteer because I believe deeply in what 4-H offers,” Tulloh said. “It’s one of the best platforms for young people to discover who they are, give back to their communities and prepare for their futures.”

As leader of the Walters 4-H Club, Tulloh uses monthly meetings and hands-on educational programs to encourage young people to participate at the county, district and state levels. She has helped youth prepare record books, develop public speaking skills and pursue leadership opportunities. Over the years, 4-H’ers from her club have gone on to serve as county, district and state officers, earn Hall of Fame honors and become leaders within their communities.

“Denise creates a welcoming, educational environment where youth are encouraged to explore projects, develop leadership skills and build confidence,” said Kimbreley Davis, former Cotton County Extension educator. “Her leadership has provided stability, vision and consistency for generations of 4-H members.”

Tulloh’s impact extends well beyond regular club meetings. She helped establish a partnership among Walters 4-H, Walters Public Schools and the Walters Dahlia Garden Club, giving 4-H’ers the opportunity to maintain flowerbeds at the local elementary school while learning horticulture skills, responsibility and community pride.

Her service also reaches county, district and state programs. Tulloh has volunteered with the Oklahoma 4-H Horse Program for many years, assisting at district and state 4-H horse shows and serving at the State Family Horse Camp. She regularly announces the Cotton County Junior Livestock Show and County Fair, helps operate concession stands that raise funds for scholarships and camp, and volunteers wherever needed.

“Denise’s volunteer efforts and contributions to Cotton County and Oklahoma 4-H have had a positive impact on countless youth,” said Andrea Ballard, former Cotton County Extension educator. “If Denise is involved in an event, she is working to ensure the participants have a positive experience.”

One of Tulloh’s most meaningful contributions continues a family tradition that spans generations. Her family sponsors an award in Cotton County to recognize younger members and encourage them to stay involved in the program.

“Our family provides the Outstanding Junior 4-H’er Award each year, ensuring our junior members know they are valued and celebrated,” Tulloh said. “As the family matriarch now, I’ve kept the promise I made to both generations before me: we will always take care of that award.”

For many youth, Tulloh’s greatest contribution has been the confidence she inspires.

“Mrs. Tulloh has a way of building kids up and making them believe in themselves,” said Cotton County 4-H’er Rowdy Burns. “She believes in kids, and because of that, kids believe in themselves.”

Burns said Tulloh encouraged his interest in agriculture from an early age, trusted him with responsibilities and supported his goals throughout his 4-H career.

The rewards of volunteering have come full circle for Tulloh. After more than 20 years of service, she now sees former 4-H’ers returning as volunteers and leaders themselves.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my service has been seeing multiple generations of families return to Walters 4-H,” she said. “I’ve been blessed to watch shy children grow into confident speakers, strong leaders and role models.”

For more information about 4-H, contact an OSU Extension county office.

The Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development program provides experiential and hands-on learning opportunities to help youth learn valuable life skills they need to become leaders within their clubs, communities, state and world. Most programming is available at little to no cost. 4-H membership is open to youth in each of Oklahoma’s 77 counties, where OSU Extension educators are equipped with research-based information to help all residents solve local issues, promote leadership and manage resources.