"All of my experiences with Illinois Extension, my 4-H skills and my education came together during my military deployment. That experience led me to the USDA."
B.S. '82 General Home Economics, University of Illinois; M.S. '87 Ag Education, University of Illinois
International Trade Specialist, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Foreign Agricultural Service
Favorite 4-H Projects: Sewing, Beef, Baking/Cooking
How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
The experiences in leadership positions at the club and county levels as well as through workshops and conferences that I attended, allowed me to improve my leadership skills.
Did 4-H instill a career path for you?
My 4-H involvement made me want to be an Extension Advisor, so my degrees led me to Illinois Extension, where I worked for 12 years. I was deployed with the Army Reserves serving as an agricultural officer, where I was introduced to an agricultural attache who encouraged me to work with the Foreign Agricultural Service.
What advice do you have for someone who is interested in your career path?
Follow your 4-H interests as you never know where they might lead you in your future. I pursued my college degrees, joined the Army Reserve through ROTC, where my citizenship and leadership skills contributed to my success and an agricultural position in the Army became available. All of my experiences with IL Extension, my 4-H skills and my education came together during my military deployment. That experience led me to the USDA.
What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
Do all you can in 4-H, there is a lot to learn that will help you in the future.
Why should young people join 4-H today?
4-H instills a sense of community and citizenship. You learn leadership skills that will stay with you for life. You learn life skills and how to get along with others and work together.