Illinois 4-H

Favorite 4-H Projects:  Baking, Beef cattle, Poultry

Did any of your 4-H project skills, experiences or connections help prepare you for your career path?
I have had the opportunity to speak on behalf of agriculture on the local, state, and national levels. I credit my public speaking skills to 4-H. I am comfortable speaking to a small group or keynoting to 700 people. 4-H has allowed me to promote agriculture to farmers and the non-farming public. It is important to know where our food comes from and I am proud to be the fifth generation of our family to farm in this area.

What advice do you have for someone who wants to enter your career path?
Don’t be afraid to stretch…having a degree in Ag Com has given me the skills to promote agriculture internationally and on the local level. Before I retired back to the farm, I spent 27 yrs at a local farm cooperative training employees about being safe on the farm. And I still do that on our farm today as well!!

What did you learn through 4-H that benefits you today?
You are the product of your own environment. Surround yourself with good people and always stay true to your moral compass.

How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
They contributed immensely! The public speaking skills, being able to lead and conduct meetings with ease, and work cooperatively together were all skills I gained from 4-H. And I still use them!

What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
Be open to learning new things or taking a project that may challenge your abilities. Along the way, you will gain more confidence and continue to grow in your 4-H experience.

Do you currently volunteer or have volunteered with the 4-H program? If so, in what capacity.
I am a 4-H leader for the Arcola Purple Ribbon Riders 4-H club. I co-lead the 15 member Cloverbuds of the club. I also volunteer as a judge for the county 4-H show. This fall I presented a workshop on showing chickens. I also serve as the poultry superintendent at the Moultrie-Douglas 4-H fair.