1910
The world was transformed with World War I, the Industrial Revolution, and the mass migration of people from rural farms to cities. In 1919, committee members raised $250,000 (equivalent to nearly $5 million in 2026) to fund the organization’s early work. The first director, O.H. Benson, a former director of Agricultural Extension and a superintendent of schools in Iowa, was instrumental in developing 4-H Clubs. He enthusiastically developed a “learn-by-doing” program for the Boys’ and Girls’ Bureau. With an assistant and a secretary, Mr. Benson began developing a program to be launched in the Northeast.
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Award Winners
The JA Professional Staff Hall of Fame is awarded to former JA staff professionals whose long-term dedication, commitment, and exceptional accomplishments made a significant impact on the organization and created a foundation for the current organization. Laureates are role models and set standards of accomplishment and behavior to which current and future JA staff should aspire. The process is managed by the JA Staff Alumni Network.
A $2,000 scholarship is awarded to a JA Company Program student in recognition of his or her accomplishments, role in their JA Company, and entrepreneurial potential.
The Karl Flemke Award is given annually at the JA National Leadership Conference. This award goes to a first-time Junior Achievement president who has demonstrated an outstanding contribution to and achievement with the organization.
