"4-H taught me teamwork, public speaking, and culinary lessons."
Les Dumas Pere Culinary School
Culinary Services & Tour Leader, Culinary Services
Favorite 4-H Projects: Pretty much all of them.
How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
My leaders were great models in how to handle competition, teamwork, and they insisted on quality work while exhibiting good humor - all good lessons
Did 4-H instill a career path for you?
Yes very much so - I became an interior designer because of the home improvement projects, but changed careers to culinary and the public speaking and demonstration skills also still serve me today. Years as a caterer and party planner came from the skills I learned in a less direct way, but I have used those constantly as well.
What advice do you have for someone who is interested in your career path?
Just do it - if it calls to you, follow that. The world is very different now than when I entered my career, but by being able to pivot regularly, I have kept involved in my career choice for 50 years
What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
It is a fun way to learn teamwork, leadership, and most of all life skills which will serve you forever
Why should young people join 4-H today?
A good outlet for energy and way to be safe and do interesting projects when the outside world is sometimes out of control.