Alumni Spotlight: Julie (Wolterman) Burroughs

From State Fair Queen to baby food producer, our December Alum of the Month has used the skills gained from her 4-H experience to propel herself to success. Julie (Wolterman) Burroughs was a member of the Garfield All-Stars 4-H Club for nine years in Ida County. Some of her projects included; showing cattle, quilting, knitting, woodworking, child development and much more. She also participated in Clothing Selection, Fashion Revue and 4-H Council. 

Julie’s favorite 4-H memory was when she was crowned the 1993 Iowa State Fair Queen.  “The competition was such a valuable experience and my year as Queen, representing Iowa, was phenomenal,” said Burroughs. “The opportunity was such an honor and defined my 4-H experience.” Burroughs went on to coordinate the Iowa State Fair Queen Competition of 14 years.

Another fond 4-H memory Burroughs has is showing livestock. “I loved the energy and sense of community on livestock show day. The entire Club worked together to get the cattle washed and groomed for the show,” said Burroughs. “There was not a detail missed that day! I loved the feeling of excitement, anticipation and nervousness as a 4-H’er entered the show ring.”

When looking back, Julie has many childhood memories involving 4-H. “4-H was such a part of my family and community growing up,” said Burroughs. “I met lifelong friends and learned so many valuable lessons through 4-H. I wouldn’t trade my time with the Garfield All-Stars for anything.”

Today, Julie resides in Des Moines with her husband, Tony, and four daughters; Emma, Lily, Avery and Brynn. She is the owner of a local, all natural baby and toddler food company called Farm Baby Foods. Farm Baby Foods offers Stage 1 and Stage 2 all-natural baby food as well as convenient, resealable pouches, ideal for all ages. Each container or pouch of Farm Baby Foods is transparent, which make it easy for parents to see and know exactly what they are serving their children.

“All products feature BPA-Free, freezer safe, reusable packaging. The wholesome, mom-made treats are all-natural with absolutely no added ingredients,” said Burroughs. “No added salt, sugar, preservatives, artificial flavors or fillers, just the highest quality of produce.”

4-H taught Burroughs many important values like; community service, dedication, community awareness, leadership, discipline, friendship, hard work, integrity, problem solving, teamwork, accountability, responsibility and communication. As an adult, she thinks that making an effort to stay active in the 4-H community or giving back to 4-H is an illustration of leading by example.  “It is important to acknowledge each of our responsibilities (as Alum) to make sure the 4-H organization continues to offer fun-filled learning experiences as well as quality programming,” said Burroughs.

Learn more about Farm Baby Foods here.