You could say that David Wallace was destined to be a die-hard 4-Her. In fact, it was such a huge proponent of his parent’s lives that they delayed their wedding by a month in order to allow Wallace’s mother to show at the Kentucky State Fair steer show one last time. Wallace recalls early memories of being rowdy in a play pen at the Princeton research station. The research station was a place rich with Wallace family history, and the birthplace of Wallace’s love for agriculture and registered Angus cattle.
Fast forward, Wallace found a place in the driver’s seat of leadership roles across Kentucky 4-H. From serving on State Teen Council and eventually being elected as Kentucky State 4-H Vice President, to being a member of the coveted Kentucky State 4-H Livestock Judging Team, Wallace represented the clover to his core. It was here where Wallace began to evolve as a leader. Building upon the work ethic and values that had been so integral in his early life, Wallace sought to refine his skills and build invaluable relationships that still aid him in his later professional life.
Though all 4-H activities seem to hold a special place in Wallace’s heart, his fondest recollection of 4-H resides in a judging van with his fellow judging teammates and the late Dr. Monte Chapell. Venturing into countless states and numerous livestock operations, Wallace saw the world through a van window, or in some cases through the headlights of the judging van judging steers at an intense late-night practice. Wallace and his brother Steve were both Gold Team members, with Steve being named the national champion swine judge at the Chicago International in 1974, and David tying for the same honor later in 1978. After his time as a participant was completed, Wallace hustled to give back to the next 4-H judgers in line, coaching younger students while pursuing a degree in agriculture economics and attending law school.
After law school, Wallace began handling legal matters for what would eventually become Heritage Bank, the company where he is now Chairman and CEO. But even in his adult life, Wallace couldn’t shake the itch to be involved in, and support, the youth organization that propelled him into his career. So, alongside fellow 4-H alumni Paul Hall and Keith Rogers, Wallace and his constituents established the Friends of 4-H organization which would later become known as the Kentucky 4-H Foundation. Today, the Kentucky 4-H Foundation and its donors are the most prolific financial contributors to Kentucky 4-H.
Wallace vouches that his communication skills, professionalism, decision-making ability, and respect for his fellow man can be traced back to the 4-H playbook. Wallace mentions that larger than life figures like Dr. Chapell and Dennis Goodman, alongside his devoted parents and brother, encouraged not only his professional development, but his love for the 4-H organization. Astonishingly, Wallace states his 4-H story while distinguished, is no different from numerous other past and current members. He further explained that this profound organization can provide endless opportunities in youth leadership development and networking. Needless to say, much like Wallace, 4-H lessons serves as a blueprint for sculpting the future we all wish to see in our communities, country, and world.