Patricia Brundige Inducted into National 4-H Hall of Fame

COLUMBUS, Ohio-Patricia Brundige, the largest individual benefactor in the history of The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), has been inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame for her transformative contributions to Ohio 4-H Youth Development.

Brundige's lifelong support, volunteerism, and philanthropy have empowered countless youth, ensuring 4-H's continued growth and success across the state. She grew up in Franklin County and participated in 4-H as a youth, maintaining a deep connection to the program throughout her life. After attending Ohio State to study home economics education, she began an extensive career in the food science industry.

With the untimely passing of her late husband, Thomas Brundige, she assumed responsibility for operating the company he had founded, Total Ultimate Foods Inc. Through it all, Brundige always remained focused on giving back to the community that helped shape her.

For over five decades, Brundige has generously supported Ohio 4-H, contributing to CFAES and OSU Extension, which administers 4-H programs in all 88 Ohio counties. Among her many gifts is the creation of the Kunz-Brundige Franklin County Extension Building, named in honor of her parents, and located at CFAES' Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory. The facility has become a hub for teaching, research, and community engagement, supporting CFAES' mission of advancing agriculture, food systems, and environmental sustainability.

"Pat's passion for Ohio 4-H and her extraordinary generosity have shaped the future of our college and touched the lives of so many young people," says Cathann A. Kress, vice president for agricultural administration and dean of CFAES. "Her contributions go far beyond financial gifts - she has invested her time, her heart, and her vision. She is committed to ensuring that today's youth, like herself as a young 4-H member, have the opportunity to grow, lead, and give back, just like she did, when she came through 4-H."

Ohio 4-H, part of CFAES, is the largest youth development program in Ohio, reaching nearly 160,000 youth across the state each year. Through 4-H clubs, camps, and educational programs, Ohio 4-H empowers young people with skills in leadership, citizenship, communication and community service. Nationally, 4-H serves over 6 million youth, making it the largest youth development organization in the United States.

Brundige's philanthropy is far-reaching, from establishing endowments for 4-H research to funding scholarships for youth to attend 4-H camps and events. Her support extends to all aspects of the 4-H experience, from sponsoring clock trophies at the Ohio State Fair to funding Ohio 4-H Achievement Awards, which support youth in attending the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta. Additionally, she served as a nine-year member of the Ohio 4-H Foundation Board of Directors.

"Pat is the epitome of the 4-H spirit," says Kirk Bloir, state 4-H leader and assistant director of OSU Extension. "She sees a need and fills it - whether it's helping youth in her club attend camp, slicing onions for a fundraiser, or serving as a project judge at a county fair. Her dedication is an inspiration to all of us involved in Ohio 4-H. Pat's leadership and generosity have strengthened the program and will benefit generations of Ohio youth."

One of Brundige's guiding principles is her "see a need, fill a need" philosophy, which she applies not only through financial contributions but also through the countless hours she has dedicated to volunteering. She is known for her hands-on approach, from teaching sewing at 4-H camps to leading community service projects for the Franklin County 4-H Walk & Serve program. Her passion for youth development has earned her multiple accolades, including the Friend of 4-H Award and the Everett D. Reese Medal, Ohio State's highest honor for philanthropy.

"Pat's legacy in Ohio 4-H is truly immeasurable," says Kress. "She makes Ohio 4-H stronger, more resilient, and more capable of preparing the next generation of leaders. Her engagement in CFAES and OSU Extension has ensured that Ohio's youth will continue to have opportunities to learn, and thrive."

Brundige's induction into the National 4-H Hall of Fame is a recognition of her unwavering commitment to 4-H's mission. Created in 2002 to honor exceptional leaders, volunteers, and supporters, the Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on the 4-H movement at the local, state, and national levels. This year, Brundige was one of 15 inductees honored during a ceremony in Boise, Idaho.

Brundige's ongoing contributions to Ohio 4-H, CFAES, and Ohio State will continue to create opportunities for youth in 4-H to thrive for years to come.

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