Orval A. Childs

Orval A. Childs received his Masters degree from Louisiana State University, after completing undergraduate degrees at Magnolia A&M and Oklahoma A&M. Mr. Childs taught vocational agriculture for 7 years and taught at Magnolia A&M (which became Southern Arkansas University) for 35 years. Mr. Childs assisted thousands of farmers through his work with individuals and farm organizations in educational programs throughout the state. As an educator he influenced and encouraged hundreds of young people interested in careers in agriculture. Mr. Childs received numerous awards and distinctions including: an award from the Cooperation Extension Service, University of Arkansas for Contribution to Arkansas Agriculture through Outstanding Leadership and Service, recognition from the Arkansas Poultry Federation for his many years of dedication to the advancement of young people in the Field of Poultry, a Meritorious Service Award from Southern Arkansas University, a State of Arkansas Certificate of Merit for Distinguished Service, the Southern Arkansas University Distinguished Alumni Award, and recognition of “an Outstanding Arkansan” from the Arkansas Electric Cooperation for 33 years of Leadership. In 1973 Mr. Childs was named the Progressive Farmer magazine’s Man of the Year in Service to Agriculture in Arkansas.