Wayne W. Brabender
State 4-H Learning Resources Coordinator

Wayne Brabender joined UW-Extension in 1973 as a 4-H Marketing Specialist. In 1983, Wayne put his skills to work on statewide 4-H curriculum where he managed production, acquisition, and distribution of 400 statewide 4-H publications.

On a national level, Wayne juried 4-H curricula, chaired the Communications and Expressive Arts National Jury and edited six national 4-H curricula: Child Development, Citizenship, Get Real! Get Active!, Photography, Small Engines, and Theatre Arts.

Wayne put his love of photography to work as State 4-H Photography Specialist and created the State   4-H  Photography Advisory Committee of volunteer photo leaders to plan, develop, and conduct programs and generate resources for the state’s 11,500 project members and 500 photo leaders.

During his 35-year career, Wayne was active with WAE4-HYDP as editor of Entre Nous newsletter, chair of the Communications Committee, and member of the Board of Directors, earning the association’s DSA and Tennie Award. Upon his retirement in 2008, UW-Extension recognized Wayne for his “overwhelming enthusiasm, support, and leadership” for 4-H.

Since retiring, Wayne has continued to chair the State 4-H Photo Advisory Committee, teach photo seminars at State 4-H and Youth Conference, and judge 8-10 county fairs each year. Wayne worked hard supporting faculty and staff, ensuring that quality curriculum products were available to 4-H youth and volunteers in Wisconsin and throughout the country. His many publications and photographic contributions truly support the educational mission of 4-H Youth Development and live on after his retirement.