LOVELOCK - Marianne Papa has been the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Youth Development Program Coordinator for the Pershing County 4-H for 20 years.
She also worked 13 years for UNCE in Fallon. After 33 fulfilling years helping shape the youth of the future, Papa has retired.
"It was a blessed job. I loved it," Papa said.
Papa graduated from UNR with bachelor's and master's degree in home economics. She started her Cooperative Extension career in 1980 in Fallon as a county home economist, conducting adult and youth programs.
In 1993 she came to Lovelock to be the 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator. Papa coordinated a variety of programs, or clubs as they are known in 4-H circles, from the traditional livestock clubs, beef, sheep, swine and goats; to include drama clubs, camping clubs, cooking clubs and the YCATs rock climbing and hot air ballooning clubs.
She did not need to climb mountains nor crawl into caves in her position. She worked with the 4-H leaders of the various clubs. Papa coordinated over 100 youth and 20 leaders when she retired.
"The best part of the jobs was the people. We have great members, caring leaders and dedicated staff. I have become friends with the people I worked with," Papa said.
She kicked off her retirement with a party at Lake Tahoe's 4-H Camp, which was attended by over 80 of her friends. Then she took off on a three-week vacation that took her to see the Boston Pops and tour Boston, New York City, Chicago, Niagara Falls, then she finished in Milwaukee to celebrate her mother's 89th birthday.
A special treat for Papa was sharing her vacation with her college friend Margaret Barratt. Papa and Barratt attended UNR graduate school together.
After graduation Barratt returned to live in Australia. The two have kept in touch since college but have only seen each other once in 1991, when Papa visited her in Australia.
Papa said she was extremely happy that her friend was able to share the trip with her.
"It was a glorious time. We saw so many attractions, museums, plays and the Boston Pops were fabulous. I was so happy Margaret could share this time with me," Papa said.
Now back at home in Lovelock, Papa said she has no plans to move.
"Lovelock is my home now. I have wonderful friends here," Papa said.
She would like to travel a little more, although she has no immediate plans on where or when. First on her list is to become a 4-H volunteer. She plans to lead a cooking and nutrition club and a craft club with the Pershing County 4-H.[[In-content Ad]]
