Stephen (Steve) Zoppa began his 4-H career at age seven and spent twelve years as a Hartford County 4-H member, participating in a wide range of animal and non-animal projects across three clubs. He was also an active participant in Hartford County 4-H Camp, serving as both a camper and counselor. Throughout his youth membership, Steve held numerous leadership roles, including serving as President of the Hartford County 4-H Fair Association. For the past 19 years, Steve has continued to give back as a dedicated Hartford County 4-H volunteer. He has served as a Junior Fair Advisor and Fair Advisor, mentoring Fair Officers and supporting key committees. Known for his behind‑the‑scenes problem‑solving, Steve is always willing to lend a hand wherever needed. He plays an essential role in securing equipment, coordinating with town departments, and transporting materials for the Fair. Steve also serves as Superintendent for the Hartford County 4-H Fair Horse Draw Pull and Doodlebug events and contributes as an Industrial Arts Judge. He previously served as a Trustee on the Hartford County 4-H Camp Board. Steve continues to dedicate his head, heart, hands, and health to 4-H—and truly works to “make the best better” for Hartford County 4-H. 

Hogan Eng is an exceptional Fairfield County 4-H Volunteer whose leadership has transformed robotics into a powerful youth development experience. In 2018, Hogan partnered with 4-H to transition a FIRST Robotics team into what is now Power Surge 4-H Robotics, a fully student-driven program blending advanced STEM learning with 4-H’s core values. As a professional electrical engineer, Hogan brings real-world expertise in robot design, programming, and engineering, but his greatest strengths are how he empowers youth and engages volunteers. Students lead every aspect of the team, from designing and building robots to fundraising, outreach, and competition strategy, while adults serve as mentors and guides. Hogan’s impact extends far beyond competition. His students grow into confident leaders, problem-solvers, and educators. Through his commitment, Power Surge 4-H Robotics isn’t just building robots; it’s building futures. 

Margaret “Peg” Hall for the past 11 years has been a driving force in the 4-H program, reviving and leading the Diggity Dogs 4-H Club, co-founding the county’s first horticulture-based club, and welcoming dozens of new families into 4-H. She is a constant presence at county and state activities, serving as a Fair Association director, Foundation trustee and vice president, community service leader, thoughtful evaluator, and dependable volunteer who is always the first to say yes when help is needed. As a Fair Director she supports the youth officer team of the Fair Association and a variety of fair committees and has served as an adult advisor to the officer nominating committee. Peg has played a critical role in major initiatives such as Operation Community Impact, personally delivering milk to food pantries across the county for years, leading large-scale community dinners that engage hundreds of members in service and engaging in the State Award trip review process for youth across the State to attend National 4-H opportunities. Known for her tireless work ethic, kindness, fairness, and humility, Peg leads by example, supports new volunteers, champions youth achievement, and quietly does whatever it takes to make 4-H stronger. Her selfless commitment truly embodies the spirit of 4-H and makes her an exceptionally deserving recipient of the Meritorious Service Award.