2002 4-H Centennial Alumni-The Inaugural Class of the Emerald Clover Society

Recognized by
Michigan 4-H Youth Development

With support from
Michigan 4-H Foundation

Last updated: September 6, 2002

The Emerald Clover Society reflects the ultimate outcome of 4-H membership—extraordinary use of an individual's head, heart, hands and health to make our communities, our country and our world a better place in which to live.

2002 4-H Centennial Alumni: The Inaugural Class of the Emerald Clover Society

Richard (Dick) Posthumas Richard Posthumas, Kent County 4-H'er

Lieutenant Governor, State of Michigan

“4-H taught me responsibility at a young age. At the same time, it taught me that hard work leads to success, but there are times you might fail anyway. It taught me to get back up and go again.”

Dick Posthumus has spent 20 years serving the state of Michigan, first as a state senator from the 31st district and currently as lieutenant governor. He is the longest-serving senate majority leader in Michigan history, serving for eight years. As a state senator, his legislative initiatives helped improve high school students’ access to college and technical training through the creation of a scholarship program that helps low-income students get the financial support they need to pursue an associate’s degree at any degree-granting institution in Michigan. His domestic abuse prevention advocacy won him the President’s Award from the Child Abuse and Neglect Council of Oakland County. He also led a mission to Japan to increase trade opportunities in Michigan and helped implement welfare reform in Michigan.

Posthumus has dedicated his personal life to chairing the Michigan Domestic Violence Homicide Prevention Task Force. He is a member of the Sons of the American Legion and currently serves as state chairman for Habitat for Humanity. His family is active in 4-H, where he and his wife, Pam, serve as 4-H volunteers.