“Every kid was my kid,” said Carnelley. “They learned how to work, how to accept teaching moments and then how to pick themselves back up and do it again. They learned how to be good to one another, and you just don’t find that every day right now.”

In her years of managing the food stand, Carnelley also taught the students how to count back change and how to work together as a team.

“Sometimes I’ll see some of my 4-H kids and they’ll show me that they still remember how to count back change,” said Carnelley. “So many people that came to the food stand saw that the kids were learning and were so patient with them. I’m thankful for that.”

For her decades of service to 4-H and to hundreds of students, Carnelley will be inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame on Sunday at the Iowa State Fair.

“I don’t know if there is a measure to show just how excited I am to be inducted,” said Carnelley. “To know that someone was watching for all those years and has chosen to recognize me means so much.”

Carnelley was nominated by Webster County 4-H Program Coordinator Kristyn Klemp.

“With her signature patience and warm smile, Ivy guided countless young members through their first experiences, whether it was taking an order, cleaning tables, or learning how to count back change,” said Klemp. “Her encouragement and gentle leadership helped build confidence and character in generations of 4-H’ers.”

Carnelley also served as a county food and nutrition program assistant, a role in which she helped to promote healthy habits across the county. Carnelley is also known to many for her favorite fair tradition — handing out dollar bills during the Pie in the Face contest so that more pies could be thrown throughout the event.

She also chaperoned the Citizenship Washington Focus trip in 2006 with her daughter, Katie Carnelley.

“Ivy always empowered youth to take the lead, stepping in only when needed, and leaving a lasting impact on those she mentored,” said Klemp. “Her dedication, kindness, and unwavering support have shaped the lives of countless 4-H members and families. Her legacy is one of service, leadership, and heart.”

Carnelley will be inducted into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame at 3:30 p.m. Sunday in the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair.