Harvin Hudson
Harvin Hudson has spent his entire life serving others, personally and through his career.
“I guess it’s just in my nature. My dad was always helping people,” Hudson said of his father, a retired high school principal. “I grew up watching him help people to help themselves do better. And I enjoy helping people better themselves and improve their lives.”
In his more than 30 years with the ̾Ƶ Extension Service, Hudson has worked with 4-H’ers, farmers, gardeners and foresters. He began his Extension career in 1983 as the 4-H agent in Lawrence County. In 1989, he moved to Neshoba County, where he is the agriculture and natural resources agent.
As an Extension agent, Hudson has played a key role in enhancing the community by offering research-supported advice to help Extension clients make informed decisions. He helped organize two farmers’ markets in Philadelphia, along with the Wildlife Jamboree, an event aimed at teaching hunters and the public about safely harvesting wildlife for consumption. He also coordinates and manages the Neshoba County Fair livestock shows and exhibit hall.
An active participant in building a better community, Hudson is a member of the Neshoba County Community Development Partnership, Allies for Education and the Ambassador Program for Marketing Neshoba County. He is a board member of the Neshoba County Parks Commission and First Neshoba Credit Union. He also serves on the Community Development Partnership’s education committee and devotes countless volunteer hours to various community activities.
Hudson is modest about his community service, but his efforts have not gone unnoticed. He was named Philadelphia and Neshoba County Citizen of the Year by the Community Development Partnership in September.
“It was a surprise to me,” Hudson said. “I don’t do what I do for the community to get recognition, and I don’t go out and brag about the things I’ve been able to accomplish. But it just goes to show you that people notice.”
Hudson is a native of Winston County. He and his wife, Mattie, have two adult children, Keisha Sanders and Ansley Hudson.