Rep. May honors longtime 4-H leaders with Distinguished Hoosier Awards

Rep. May honors longtime 4-H leaders with Distinguished Hoosier Awards

Posted by: Sam Strattman  | Monday, October 5, 2026

STATEHOUSE (Oct. 5, 2026) – State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) recently presented Delores Jones and Jerri Todd of Norman with a Distinguished Hoosier Award.

Todd has devoted more than 30 years to 4-H, while Jones has supported the program for more than two decades. May said both have helped a generation of young people through their leadership, encouragement and volunteer work.

"Delores and Jerri have helped make 4-H a place where young people feel welcome and families know they have someone to count on," May said. "They've given so much of their time to this community, and I'm proud to recognize them with these awards."

The Distinguished Hoosier Award is one of the highest honors given to Indiana citizens by the governor. It recognizes individuals who have brought honor to the state through their character and accomplishments. 

Affectionately known as "Granny," Jones has become a trusted mentor to young people and 4-H families. She has served for many years as treasurer of the Horse and Pony Committee and regularly helps with workdays, horse camp and fair week.

Inspired by her family’s longstanding heritage with horses, Todd carried that tradition forward by introducing her three children to 4-H. Each completed 10 years in the program in addition to participating in Mini 4-H. Her volunteer work has included the Horse & Pony Committee, Fair Board, horse camps, workdays, bicycle rodeos, fair activities and numerous programs throughout the years.

Together, Todd and Jones are known as the "Dynamic Duo," helping organize ice cream sundae parties, evening dances and trike races. These activities have become familiar traditions for the 4-H families they have served over the years.

May said through their 4-H service and leadership, Jones and Todd have exemplified the generosity, leadership and devotion to others that make them exceptionally deserving of the Distinguished Hoosier Award.

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State Rep. Chris May (R-Bedford) represents House District 65,
which includes all of Lawrence County, and portions of Jackson, Orange and Washington counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.

PHOTO CAPTION: State Rep. Chris May (R- Bedford) (center) presents Delores Jones (left) and Jerri Todd (right) of Norman with Distinguished Hoosier awards at the Lawrence County 4-H Fairgrounds on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. Known as the "dynamic duo," Jones and Todd have been a part of Lawrence County 4-H for decades, devoting countless volunteer hours and impacting the lives of many local youths.