Throughout their 4-H career, young people have ample opportunities to learn and experience leadership. Some of the hands-on leadership opportunities come in the form of officer positions available to 4-H’ers at the county, district and state levels.

4-H offers clubs in many different interest areas. Some 4-H’ers first leadership experience is being a club officer at the county level. It is here that youth learn how to plan and run a meeting. As 4-H’ers build on their leadership skills, they also have the opportunity to run for district and state-level club officer positions.

In addition to club officers, young people who attend the 4-H Teen Conference annually elect state 4-H officers. These officers are senior 4-H’ers who serve as 4-H ambassadors to the state. State officers have many responsibilities including planning meetings, chairing committees, leading trainings, presiding over the State 4-H Teen Council and planning and conducting the annual Teen Conference. They also speak at public events for civic groups and other organizations on behalf of Kentucky 4-H.

State officers beginning their year of service to 4-H are:

• President: Ryan Halligan, Franklin County: He has been a 4-H’er for eight years and served on the Franklin County 4-H Teen Council and the State 4-H Teen Council.

• Vice President: Josh Robinett, Lawrence County: He has participated in a variety of 4-H activities and has received state and national recognition on the poultry judging team.

• Secretary: McKenzie Gearheart, Pike County: She credits 4-H with helping her grow personally and professionally and develop leadership skills.

• Treasurer: Savhanna Pearson, Adair County: A 4-H member for 10 years, she has participated in a variety of 4-H activities and has traveled to national conference and across the United States through 4-H.

For more information about officer positions at the county, district and state levels, contact the Logan County Cooperative Extension Service.

Source: Mark Mains, 4-H youth development specialist