4-H youth leaders focus on agriculture advocacy and education
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA EXTENSION - www.extension.umn.edu
The University of Minnesota Extension recently launched a new opportunity for teens. The Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador program is a year-long experience for youth to refine their leadership skills, explore and advocate for agricultural issues and expand their professional network.
4-H Agriculture Ambassadors are representatives of the University of Minnesota Extension 4-H Youth Development program. They are self-motivated, enthusiastic leaders who use their skills, knowledge and leadership abilities with fellow youth, area residents, community leaders and elected officials. Ambassadors serve to strengthen Minnesota’s commitment and enthusiasm for agriculture through public relations, community engagement and peer education.
Youth are selected to be 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors through a competitive application process. The criteria include demonstrating a superior level of ambition in one or more 4-H ag and animal science projects, a profound career interest in agriculture, advanced leadership qualities and willingness to be positive change agents.
In its second year, the program has grown to include 26 Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors from across the state. The newest members are:
- Kendra Blaschko, Le Sueur County
- Bryce Blaschko, Le Sueur County
- McKayla Carlson-Hughes, Isanti County
- Morgan Delaney, Washington County
- Macy Hoffman, Morrison County
- Rilee Klaers, Wright County
- Kaitlyn Lorang, Renville County
- Keegan Lorang, Renville County
- Makayla Moline, Nicollet County
- Ethan Muellerleile, Le Sueur County
- Natalie Neumann, Wright County
- Lauren Rott, Olmsted County
- Elaine Sauder, Dodge County
- Rachel Visser, McLeod County
- Allison Wright, McLeod County
Each youth has special areas of interest and is prepared to share their story and passion at community meetings, legislative hearings and other ag-focused gatherings. If you would like to host a 4-H Agriculture Ambassador at an event you are planning, please contact Extension educator Brian McNeill at mcnei006@umn.edu.
