4-H Salute To Excellence Awards
Recognizing 4‑H Volunteers
Each year, state 4‑H programs nominate two outstanding individual volunteers through the 4‑H Salute to Excellence Awards.* The Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award is given to an individual who has spent 10 or more years as a 4‑H volunteer while the Volunteer of the Year Award is given to an individual who has volunteered for 4‑H less than 10 years.
National Winners
National and Northeastern Region Volunteer of the Year for 2025
David Buck
Since the age of 18, David Buck has dedicated his life to service. He began in the U.S. Coast Guard, continued as a police officer, and now works as a dairy farmer. In 2020, he and his wife, Tamra French, set out to revive their historic 1850s barn and created Guardians Farm, a small dairy operation with Holsteins, Jerseys, and Brown Swiss cows. They process the milk on-site and provide fresh dairy products to their local community.
Around that time, David and Tamra learned about 4-H. As first-generation dairy farmers, they had never been involved with the program before. In 2021, with help from a friend who had 4-H experience, they launched their first club focused on dairy cattle. That first year came with challenges, but they quickly realized how much the members were gaining from the experience.
In 2022, with guidance from Litchfield County 4-H Educator William Davenport, they founded the Dirt Road Dairy Farmers 4-H club. In its first year, club members leased animals from Guardians Farm. When there weren’t enough heifers available, David and Tamra worked with another farm to provide more, even housing those animals at no cost to club members. One participant later bought her project heifer, showing the lasting impact of that first year.
Since 2023, all project animals have been leased directly from Guardians Farm. This has allowed members to work together in one location and develop their skills as a group. Meetings include both club business and hands-on time with the animals. David is always available to support the kids, whether they need transportation, advice, or encouragement. His background as a K-9 police handler taught him the importance of ending each training session on a positive note, a lesson he now applies with the club.
Even as he continues learning himself, David plans and participates in activities such as clipping clinics, showmanship training, and dairy judging. He also drives club members to UConn Extension programs and often joins in. Leading up to the fair, he organizes a mock show so members can practice and build confidence. When possible, he invites judges to give members a more realistic experience.
David and Tamra also lead club field trips to dairy farms and agricultural events. These outings are both educational and fun, helping to strengthen the bond between members.
The 4-H fair is the highlight of the year. Tamra’s saying, “go big or go home,” sets the tone. David’s military experience helps the club function like a well-organized team, where each member and volunteer has a role. Their display consistently earns compliments and reflects the hard work and cooperation of everyone involved.
David shares every part of dairy life with the club. Members have helped with milking, nutrition, breeding, and even witnessed the birth of their project heifers. These moments leave lasting impressions.
In just a few years, the Dirt Road Dairy Farmers club has grown into a close-knit community. Through care and commitment, David helps members build confidence, teamwork, and pride—skills that serve them far beyond the barn.
National and Northeastern Region Volunteer of the Year for 2025
David Buck
Since the age of 18, David Buck has dedicated his life to service. He began in the U.S. Coast Guard, continued as a police officer, and now works as a dairy farmer. In 2020, he and his wife, Tamra French, set out to...
National and Northeastern Region Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Linda Elcsisin
Linda Elcsisin embodies the spirit of engaging youth to discover and explore their sparks. Linda is one of those people who daily goes through life quietly not wanting the spotlight on herself but instead choosing to bring the spotlight and the sunshine and the happiness to her true passion – youth. She cares deeply about their daily lives, fueling their excitement and their everyday dreams, but also their big dreams. She is not showy, she is not boastful, nor is she a bragger. Instead, the takes all that energy and focus to the youth – whether she is guiding them to raise animals, helping to craft their public presentations or maybe is creating a fabulously stylish purse, dress, or an outfit. Linda has been a 4-H Volunteer since 2004 – and she is not slowing down. Linda resides in Calcium, NY with her husband Mike. Linda’s proudest accomplishments are her two daughters, Emily who is completing her last semester as a Nurse Practitioner and her other daughter Erika is in Medical School. Both girls grew up in 4-H. Linda recently retired from a 32-year teacher career.
National and Northeastern Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Linda Elcsisin
Linda Elcsisin embodies the spirit of engaging youth to discover and explore their sparks. Linda is one of those people who daily goes through life quietly not wanting the spotlight on herself but instead choosing to bring...
Regional Winners
North Central Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Aaron Baker
Aaron Baker is a dynamic force in Missouri 4-H, known for his innovative leadership and deep commitment to youth development. A 2024 Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame inductee and recipient of the prestigious Frank Graham Volunteer Award, Aaron has spent over a decade transforming the 4-H experience at every level.
As Club Leader of Home Pioneer 4-H since 2013, Aaron grew membership from 23 to 119, using technology and social media to boost engagement. He introduced online resources for project records and shared member demonstrations to inspire statewide participation. His club’s international speaker series has also expanded members’ global awareness.
Beyond his local work, Aaron serves as President of the Macon County 4-H Council and is a leader in regional events, including planning the 200+ attendee Energizer & Roundup. At the state level, Aaron has been a Missouri 4-H Foundation board member, advisor to the State 4-H Council, and a long-time supporter of the 4-H Legislative Academy. His advocacy helped secure funding for facility improvements at the Missouri State Fair and encouraged youth participation in national initiatives like the Smithsonian’s 4-H History Program.
Aaron is a sought-after speaker, presenting at the Missouri 4-H Volunteer Summit and the statewide faculty and staff conference. He also leads a Facebook group of 700+ volunteers, fostering collaboration across Missouri.
His efforts have earned recognition beyond 4-H, including Missouri’s Most Engaged Neighbor and Adult Volunteer of the Year. Aaron Baker’s vision, energy, and leadership continue to shape the future of Missouri 4-H.
North Central Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Aaron Baker
Aaron Baker is a dynamic force in Missouri 4-H, known for his innovative leadership and deep commitment to youth development. A 2024 Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame inductee and recipient of the prestigious...
North Central Region Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Blake Hennenfent
Blake Hennenfent is a fourth-generation 4-H member whose family legacy spans more than 335 combined years in Knox County 4-H. That deep-rooted tradition has shaped Blake into a passionate leader and mentor dedicated to the success of 4-H youth in his community.
As a member of the Union 4-H Club, led for nearly two decades by his mother, Blake exhibited cattle at county and state fairs and helped launch the Knox County 4-H Livestock Judging Team. His early commitment to livestock evaluation led him and his teammates to
become the first from Knox County to compete at the prestigious National Western Stock Show. He later judged at the collegiate level for Black Hawk East and Western Illinois University, all while continuing to support Knox County 4-H.
Since 2016, Blake has served as the Livestock Judging Team coach, guiding youth through competitions and life lessons. Under his mentorship, many 4-H members have earned scholarships to collegiate judging teams and built essential skills in communication, leadership, and critical thinking. His impact extends far beyond the show ring—Blake fosters confidence, humility, and ambition in every young person he mentors.
Even as a college student, Blake prioritized giving back over personal time, proving that 4-H was more than a childhood chapter. For the past nine years, he has played a vital role in organizing countywide events, mentoring youth in agricultural projects, and advocating for 4-H as a pathway to personal growth and community impact.
Blake’s unwavering dedication continues to strengthen Knox County 4-H for generations to come.
North Central Region Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Blake Hennenfent
Blake Hennenfent is a fourth-generation 4-H member whose family legacy spans more than 335 combined years in Knox County 4-H. That deep-rooted tradition has shaped Blake into a passionate leader and mentor dedicated to...
Southern Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Bradley “Brad” James
Bradley “Brad” James has dedicated more than three decades to shaping the lives of youth through Oklahoma 4-H. Though his time as a 4-H member was brief, Brad’s roots in the program run deep—his grandfather was a 40-year volunteer leader in New Mexico, inspiring Brad’s lifelong commitment to service.
When his oldest son joined Texas County 4-H at age nine, Brad naturally followed in the footsteps of his family’s legacy, offering his knowledge from college, his professional background with the USDA, and his expertise in shooting sports. A former member of the U.S. Army National Shooting Team, Brad was part of the original Oklahoma 4-H Shooting Sports Committee and traveled to Raton, New Mexico in 1996 to help launch the state’s program. Today, he takes great pride in the program’s tremendous growth and impact.
Since 1988, Brad has volunteered with the Loyal Doers 4-H Club and became the Organizational Leader in 1993. When his wife became an Extension Educator and stepped down from her leadership role, Brad seamlessly took the reins—never once regretting the commitment. His service as a National Shooting Sports Instructor spans nearly 30 years, and he has mentored countless youth in animal science, shooting sports, and beyond.
In 2006, Brad received the USDA’s Presidential Award for Volunteer Service, and in 2023, he began serving as President of the Texas County 4-H Parent-Volunteer Association. For Brad James, helping youth become the best versions of themselves is the ultimate reward.
Southern Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Bradley “Brad” James
Bradley “Brad” James has dedicated more than three decades to shaping the lives of youth through Oklahoma 4-H. Though his time as a 4-H member was brief, Brad’s roots in the program run deep—his grandfather was...
Southern Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Randy Bailey
Randy Bailey’s unwavering dedication to 4-H and youth development has made him a transformative force in Creek County and across Oklahoma. Since becoming a certified 4-H archery coach in 2020, he has built Creek County’s Shooting Sports program from the ground up—growing the archery club to over 60 youth participants. His passion and perseverance launched the program in 2021 despite pandemic delays, and his impact has continued to expand.
Randy currently serves as Archery Club Leader (4 years), Hunting Skills Club Leader (2 years), and a volunteer for the Shotgun and Rifle/Pistol Clubs. As a 5-year member of the Parent-Volunteer Committee and Shooting Sports Club, he has become a cornerstone of
local programming. His mentorship has led to the recruitment of six new volunteers and the certification of four new coaches, ensuring sustainability and growth.
At the district and state level, Randy has volunteered at multiple competitions and events, served on the State Shooting Sports Advisory Board (2022–2023), mentored 10 coaches statewide, and volunteered at the National 4-H Shooting Sports Championships in 2024.
Randy’s commitment to youth development shines through his efforts to empower young leaders—establishing a youth advisory committee within the archery club—and his support of members in livestock, fair exhibits, and leadership roles. His efforts have earned him multiple honors, including 2024 State 4-H Volunteer of the Year.
Outside of 4-H, Randy serves as President of the Pawnee County Burn Association and Chairman of the North 48 Volunteer Fire Department Board.
Randy Bailey’s leadership is shaping confident, capable youth across Oklahoma.
Southern Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Randy Bailey
Randy Bailey’s unwavering dedication to 4-H and youth development has made him a transformative force in Creek County and across Oklahoma. Since becoming a certified 4-H archery coach in 2020, he has built...
Western Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Margaret ‘Margie’ McKeen
Margaret ‘Margie’ McKeen has been an invaluable asset to the 4-H Program and the greater community for an extraordinary sixty-two years. In the early 1960s, Margie moved to the family ranch in Alma, New Mexico, alongside her husband, Hugh B. Despite the demands of raising four children and managing a farm and ranch, Margie quickly became deeply involved in her local community. She took on the role of Organizational Leader for the San Francisco Valley 4-H Club, marking the beginning of an enduring legacy of service to 4-H and youth development.
For over six decades, Margie has positively impacted the lives of countless 4-H members. Under her leadership, young people have not only developed vital life skills but have also gone on to become leaders in their own right—doctors, teachers, county commissioners, authors, engineers, servicemen, entomologists, commercial off-shore fishermen, and county extension agents. Margie's influence extends far beyond these accomplishments, however. Her 4-H members have become parents, community leaders, and dedicated citizens, perpetuating the values of hard work, responsibility, and service that Margie instilled in them.
Margie’s 62 years of service to the 4-H program have left an enduring legacy of empowerment, leadership, and community engagement. From her role as the Organizational Leader of the San Francisco Valley 4-H Club to her leadership in organizing McKeen Ranch Days and supporting the Frisco CowBelles, Margie has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to educating youth, advocating for agriculture and fostering strong community ties. Her tireless efforts have not only shaped the lives of countless 4-H members but have also enriched her community by creating educational opportunities, supporting local scholarships, and promoting agricultural education. Through her mentorship, organizational leadership, and advocacy for the 4-H program, Margie has inspired generations of youth to reach their full potential, making her a true pillar of the 4-H community.
Western Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer for 2025
Margaret ‘Margie’ McKeen
Margaret ‘Margie’ McKeen has been an invaluable asset to the 4-H Program and the greater community for an extraordinary sixty-two years. In the early 1960s, Margie moved to the family ranch in Alma, New Mexico, alongside...
Western Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Stephani Treadwell
Stephani Treadwell is an award-winning educator and dedicated 4-H volunteer who has transformed youth development in Bernalillo County through her innovative leadership and commitment to service. Since 2016, she has served as the 4-H Club Leader at Collet Park Elementary School, where she is also the principal. Recognizing the needs of a student population where over 84% live in poverty, she integrated the 4-H Schools program into the curriculum, creating a model that blends academic achievement with life skills development.
Under her guidance, the program has become a cornerstone of the school culture, improving attendance, behavior, and student engagement. Stephani’s efforts have been recognized nationally, earning her multiple honors, including the NAE4-HYDP Excellence in Urban 4-H Programming Award (state, regional, and national levels) and the Western Extension Directors Association Award of Excellence in Programming.
Beyond her school, she serves on the Bernalillo County 4-H Advisory Board, Fundraising and Grant Writing Team, Curriculum Development Team, and as a Community Liaison. Her work builds lasting partnerships, secures essential funding, and ensures that 4-H programming reaches underserved youth. She has also been recognized as a Friend of 4-H by New Mexico 4-H.
Stephani’s influence extends beyond her district as she actively shares her model with educators and 4-H leaders across the country. Through her visionary leadership,
commitment to equity, and passion for experiential learning, she has empowered countless students and helped expand 4-H access and impact across communities.
Western Volunteer of the Year for 2025
Stephani Treadwell
Stephani Treadwell is an award-winning educator and dedicated 4-H volunteer who has transformed youth development in Bernalillo County through her innovative leadership and commitment to service. Since 2016, she has...
Previous Outstanding Lifetime Volunteers
Northeastern Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Donald Beebe
Donald Beebe's journey with 4-H began on his grandfather's dairy farm at the age of eight. For nearly 30 years, he has been an integral part of the 4-H community, dedicating his life to the positive development of young people. While his career as an attorney occupies his time, his heart lies in supporting the New London County 4-H Foundation, where he serves as a leader overseeing the county's 4-H camp.
Donald's commitment extends beyond administration; he actively engages in camp activities, whether it's organizing the annual fundraising auction or easing homesickness among campers by crafting personal stuffed animals. His presence at the camp is a constant, leading closing ceremonies and entertaining campers with his 4-H clover puppet, Lucky.
Beyond 4-H camp, Donald oversees approximately 60 teens and a dozen adult volunteers in the 4-H Teen Ambassador program. For over 25 years, this program has been a cornerstone of leadership development in Eastern Connecticut, nurturing life skills and empowering youth to become leaders in their communities. Through his support, many teens have gained opportunities at local, state, and national levels, attending events like Citizenship Washington Focus and the Eastern States Exposition.
Donald’s leadership style fosters mentorship, encouraging youth to learn from their own experiences and take ownership of their paths. He believes in celebrating uniqueness and empowers both youth and adults to contribute their strengths to the community. Donald’s dedication doesn't stop at leadership; he's a tireless fundraiser, ensuring that financial barriers never hinder a youth's participation in transformative 4-H experiences.
Above all, Donald Beebe embodies the spirit of 4-H, where dedication, mentorship, and community support create a nurturing environment for youth to thrive. His impact extends far beyond 4-H camp, shaping the future leaders of tomorrow with his unwavering commitment and infectious enthusiasm.
Northeastern Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Donald Beebe
Donald Beebe's journey with 4-H began on his grandfather's dairy farm at the age of eight. For nearly 30 years, he has been an integral part of the 4-H community, dedicating his life to the positive development of young people...
National Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer, North Central Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Jim Ostlie
Jim Ostlie’s journey as a dedicated volunteer and standout leader traces back to the revival of the Swift Falls Winners 4-H Club in 2011, a pivotal moment after its hiatus since 2004. Dating back to 1944, this club holds a rich history, and under Jim's guidance, it flourished into the largest in Swift County – , boasting over 60 members at its peak.
Jim attributes much of his personal and professional growth to his formative years in 4-H, where he honed essential leadership skills and formed enduring friendships. He wants every child to have this transformative journey, which is why he works tirelessly to ensure inclusivity and engagement for participants of all ages and backgrounds.
Jim introduced the Cloverbud Leader position within the club, empowering older youth to design and lead activities tailored to engage their younger peers. This innovative approach has not only been embraced within the club but has also fostered a culture of mentorship and collaboration across Swift County.
Jim's commitment to inclusivity extends to creating spaces that embrace youth of all abilities and interests, evident in the club's monthly activities and meetings. He encourages both youth and volunteers to take on leadership roles in planning activities, and facilitating knowledge-sharing through project talks and demonstrations.
Beyond the club meetings, Jim collaborates with families to organize group tours of local businesses and attractions, enhancing members' understanding of their community and fostering camaraderie among participants.
A poignant example of Jim's dedication is highlighted by his wife Laura, who shared that when the time comes to wash and clip breeding ewes—a labor-intensive process spanning several weeks—Jim clears his schedule at a moment's notice. His sole focus is on accommodating the busy schedules of the 4-H members he mentors, ensuring he's available to guide them through the process. It's important to note that Jim doesn't simply do the work for them; instead, he selflessly creates the time and space for these young individuals to develop the skills and confidence needed to present their animals exceptionally on show day.
Jim's impact extends beyond the club level to the revitalization of the Swift Falls community. Through his leadership and the collective efforts of the Swift Falls Winners 4-H club, this close-knit town has undergone significant transformation. A key aspect of their mission focuses on enhancing the community, exemplified by their ambitious project to upgrade the playground equipment at Swift Falls County Park. With Jim at the helm, the club secured grants and raised over $40,000, leading to the installation of new equipment in 2015 and the recent addition of an ADA-compliant swing set in June 2023. This endeavor not only enhances recreational opportunities but also fosters a profound sense of pride and belonging among residents of all ages in Swift Falls.
Moreover, Jim has provided invaluable opportunities for 4-H youth to collaborate with the Swift County Master Gardeners in enhancing the park's landscape. Through partnerships with the County Parks, Drainage, and Wetlands Department, he has leveraged funding and identified project priorities, earning recognition for the Swift Falls Winners club with the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) 4-H Leadership Award in 2015.
Jim's remarkable influence in fostering community engagement and service among 4-H members was further underscored by earning another AMC 4-H Leadership Award in 2022. This recognition was a result of impactful improvements made at the Swift County Fair, spearheaded by Jim and his dedicated team of 4-H families. Their endeavors included refurbishing a dilapidated barn and transforming a rundown indoor wash area for livestock into a functional outdoor wash area. By engaging youth in these projects, Jim instilled a sense of pride and ownership within the community while providing valuable educational experiences.
National Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer, North Central Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Jim Ostlie
Jim Ostlie’s journey as a dedicated volunteer and standout leader traces back to the revival of the Swift Falls Winners 4-H Club in 2011, a pivotal moment after its hiatus since 2004. Dating back to 1944, this club holds a rich history, and under Jim's guidance...
Western Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Katie Ramsey
Katie Ramsey is a dedicated leader whose heart beats for 4-H. With over fifteen years of unwavering commitment, she has left an indelible mark on the Otero County 4-H Youth Development Program in New Mexico. Beginning her journey as a 4-H agent, Katie transitioned into the role of a full-time stay-at-home parent while still passionately serving as a 4-H project leader. Years later, she stepped up as organizational 4-H club leader in Otero County. Her leadership prowess shines through her role as the Heritage 4-H club leader, where she consistently boasts one of the largest youth enrollments in the county. Katie's dedication is evident in her tireless efforts to go above and beyond for her club members, providing guidance, support, and a nurturing environment for their growth.
Katie’s outstanding leadership of the 4-H program is demonstrated in the areas of effective communication, setting a positive example, and actively supporting the growth and success of the Otero County 4-H program. As an alumnus of South Dakota 4-H, Katie grew up participating in horse, beef, swine, creative arts, and public speaking projects. In her own words, her “favorite part of 4-H is helping kids find projects they enjoy!” She has spent numerous hours making home visits to help youth one-on-one with their livestock projects and hosting 4-H project workshops. When Katie does not have the expertise to assist 4-H youth on their projects, she will seek out additional volunteers in the community to provide the knowledge needed to help them accomplish their goals. Through her support, 4-H youth have developed new skills and interests benefiting them for a lifetime.
Katie’s influence reaches far and wide, serving as a role model not only for volunteers within Otero County but also other surrounding counties. Her mentoring has empowered countless volunteers, instilling in them the confidence and skills needed to lead effectively within the 4-H community. In addition to her county level 4-H volunteerism, Katie has served in state leadership roles with the New Mexico 4-H Volunteer Leaders’ Association Executive Board, who plan the annual New Mexico 4-H Adult Forum, a training program for 4-H agents, volunteers and parents. Katie worked with her county extension agents to host the state-wide Forum in 2019 and continues to provide workshops for the Forum each year. Katie’s workshops quickly reach capacity limits. The participants appreciate her applicable experience and ability to teach content in a way it can shared with 4-H clubs.
A champion of parliamentary procedure, Katie's expertise has guided numerous youth teams to success in various competitions, showcasing her commitment to fostering leadership skills among the next generation. However, Katie's impact transcends accolades and achievements; it lies in the lives she touches and transforms. Through personalized coaching and unwavering support, she empowers youth to realize their full potential, as exemplified by the remarkable journey of a member in her 4-H club. This member went from a shy child, hesitant to speak in front of others, to a confident speaker and leader who went on to win first place in 4-H and FFA speaking competitions in New Mexico, qualifying her for Nationals.
Katie's inclusivity knows no bounds as she actively seeks to engage diverse youth and communities, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued within the 4-H family. Her innovative approaches, such as collaborating with military families, highlight her dedication to expanding access and participation in 4-H programs.
Moreover, Katie's altruism extends to community service and fundraising efforts, further enriching the 4-H experience for all involved. Her selflessness and dedication have been instrumental in sustaining the program during times of transition and uncertainty.
As a beacon of inspiration and resilience, Katie Ramsey epitomizes the spirit of servant leadership – , leaving an indelible legacy of empowerment, inclusion, and excellence within the Otero County 4-H community and beyond.
Western Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Katie Ramsey
Katie Ramsey is a dedicated leader whose heart beats for 4-H. With over fifteen years of unwavering commitment, she has left an indelible mark on the Otero County 4-H Youth Development Program in New Mexico. Beginning her journey as a 4-H agent...
Southern Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Lori Thomas
Lori Thomas stands as a beacon of dedication and service within the South Carolina 4-H community. For over 13 years, she has been a steadfast leader, mentor, and advocate, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless youth and families. Her ability to work with a range of partners and community members to help guide the local 4-H program is one of those traits every Extension educator hopes for in a leader and volunteer.
Lori regularly attends state 4-H events as a chaperone and registered nurse. Beyond local service, she served two terms on both the South Carolina 4-H Foundation Board and Southern Region 4-H Volunteer Advisory Team. Her teen members have followed her lead and pursued state-level opportunities, recognition, and service roles including coveted delegation slots to represent South Carolina youth at National 4-H Congress and National 4-H Conference, as well as serve on State 4-H Teen Council. Dorchester County and South Carolina 4-H would not be the same without the incredible positive influence and profound gifts of service Lori has bestowed.
As the guiding force behind the local Explorers 4-H Club, Lori has cultivated a nurturing environment where youth from diverse backgrounds flourish. Under her leadership, the club has grown into a shining star, drawing members from both rural and urban areas, including Charleston. With consistent annual enrollment of 30 to 50 members, Lori's club stands as a testament to her exceptional leadership and ability to inspire.
Lori’s teen 4-H members attend state 4-H events, local one-day, and weekend workshops, and trainings on leadership, civic engagement, and healthy lifestyles. Her teens serve as 4-H Ambassadors for a wide range of programs. Under her guidance, her teen leaders once hosted a week-long cooking camp for kids, covering smart food choices, cuisine from around the world, and food safety and preparation. This is just one example of how her club members take what they learn at state 4-H events and bring it back to the local community to share. These opportunities help the 4-H members develop their skills in public speaking, organization, leadership, teamwork, and so much more.
Moreover, Lori's commitment to personalized mentorship ensures that each member of her club receives tailored support and guidance. She communicates youths’ needs and helps them communicate them when appropriate. She raises her club’s interests while also being open to new suggestions and ideas. Her support has led teens from her club to go on to a wide range of 4-H opportunities. This past year her club had teens attend State 4-H Congress, National 4-H Conference, and National 4-H Congress.
Lori's impact is not limited to the youth alone; she fosters a culture of volunteerism and collaboration, harnessing the collective efforts of parents and volunteers to enrich the 4-H experience. Recognizing the importance of safety and professionalism, she ensures that all club activities adhere to the highest standards, fostering a comfortable and secure environment for all involved.
In every aspect of her involvement, Lori Thomas exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism, leaving a lasting legacy of positivity, inclusivity, and excellence within the South Carolina 4-H community. Her profound impact on youth development and her unwavering commitment to serving others make her truly deserving of recognition as an outstanding lifetime volunteer.
Southern Region Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer
Lori Thomas
Lori Thomas stands as a beacon of dedication and service within the South Carolina 4-H community. For over 13 years, she has been a steadfast leader, mentor, and advocate, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless youth and families. Her ability to work with a range...
Previous Volunteers of the Year
Southern Region Volunteer of the Year
Michael Glasgow
Michael Glasgow epitomizes the essence of an exceptional 4-H volunteer, bringing nine years of unwavering dedication and passion to the Cheatham County 4-H program in Tennessee. As lead 4-H Rifle Instructor and State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee member, Michael’s impact extends far beyond the county level –influencing the broader state program with his expertise and dedication.
Through his nearly ten years of volunteering, Michael has demonstrated the ability to empower and encourage youth to solve problems and master skills through 4-H Shooting Sports, 4-H Camp, Financial Management, STEM, and other programs. His positive attitude and dependability has earned him the reputation of being a joy to work with. His organizational skills and servant-leadership are greatly valued by all who interact with him. Whether he’s establishing a new air rifle team for 4-H or volunteering his time on the shooting range at 4-H camp, Michael is a shining example of joyfully serving others.
Michael had an instrumental role in securing a grant to obtain vital equipment for the county program underscoring his commitment to empowering youth through safe and educational experiences. Through this grant, Michael jump-started the Cheatham County 4-H Shooting Sports Program. He regularly leads other shooting sports coaches in practices and organizational meetings, serving on both the county level and state level as a Level 2 instructor, and conducting state-level instructor workshops in the rifle discipline. Michael’s leadership is vital at the State Air Rifle Jamboree and the State 4-H BB Jamboree as well. He is active in the community through the Civitan Club, Boy Scouts, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency; and uses his community activism to expand the 4-H program to new audiences.
In Cheatham County and beyond, Michael’s impact is palpable. From his weekly assistance with BB coaches to his leadership in the county Air Rifle program, Mike's versatility and willingness to go above and beyond make him an invaluable asset to the 4-H community. His presence at every training session or competition on the state level further underscores his commitment to the program's success. In every aspect of his volunteer work, Michael Glasgow embodies the spirit of 4-H, enriching the lives of youth and contributing to the growth and success of the program. Cheatham County 4-H and the broader State 4-H Program are undeniably stronger thanks to Mike's unwavering dedication and tireless efforts.
Southern Region Volunteer of the Year
Michael Glasgow
Michael Glasgow epitomizes the essence of an exceptional 4-H volunteer, bringing nine years of unwavering dedication and passion to the Cheatham County 4-H program in Tennessee. As lead 4-H Rifle Instructor and State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee member, Michael’s impact...
Northeastern Region Volunteer of the Year
Sarah Burke
Sarah Burke stands as a shining example of selfless dedication within the Venango County 4-H community. Sarah's unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional experience for her 4-H’ers reflects her profound love for the program and its participants. Sarah serves as the head organizational leader of the Wild Hogs 4-H Club, the Livestock Committee Chair, and she works on a team to run the Venango Teen Council.
Sarah actively encourages youth to explore new projects, attend camps, and take on leadership roles within the community. Her availability and support for both youth and fellow leaders are unwavering, exemplified by her proactive approach in seeking out youths’ opinions before advocating for decisions and providing accommodations when needed.
As part of the Venango Teen Council leadership team, Sarah fosters cooperation and empowerment. She works well with her fellow leaders and encourages their teens to take on leadership positions and responsibilities in the Venango 4-H community. Teen Council oversees several of the county’s biggest promotional 4-H events and encourages Venango 4-Hers to connect with youth from other clubs. Sarah serves as a driving force behind these events, helping Teen Council stay organized and making sure that every member has an important role in planning these events.
Having been a 4-H’er herself, Sarah's decision to give back stems from her personal experiences and the positive impact 4-H had on her life. Most 4-H’ers in her county are involved in livestock projects which makes the Livestock Committee a very high pressure and intense group. Sarah volunteers as head of this committee because she believes she can steer it in a positive direction and benefit all livestock species and members. She has proven to be an excellent leader through her ability to keep meetings on track and organized and for her ability to elevate every voice.
Sarah is dedicated to increasing 4-H participation through community outreach, as well as connecting youth with mentors that bring out their best. When she realized that one male participant was having trouble connecting with her and other leaders, she encouraged a male coworker to become a 4-H volunteer. The two have since built a connection. Sarah also finds innovative approaches to engaging new youth and increasing diversity among participants, such as hosting trunk-or-treat events and public club events.
Sarah Burke's tireless dedication and unwavering passion for empowering youth make her a true asset to the Venango County 4-H community. Her selfless contributions and innovative leadership continue to shape the future of 4-H, leaving a lasting impact on all who have the privilege of working alongside her.
National Volunteer of the Year
Northeastern Region Volunteer of the Year
Sarah Burke
Sarah Burke stands as a shining example of selfless dedication within the Venango County 4-H community. Sarah's unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional experience for her 4-H’ers reflects her profound love for the program and its participants. Sarah serves...
North Central Region Volunteer of the Year
Shane Giedd
Shane Giedd is a dedicated and humble 4-H volunteer. Despite his busy schedule as an agriculturalist managing his family ranch, Shane dedicates an extraordinary amount of time, resources, and talent to enriching the 4-H experience for today's youth.
In the wake of tragedy, Shane's unwavering support and compassionate guidance were a source of solace and strength for grieving youth and adults alike. His calm and reassuring presence during difficult times exemplifies his remarkable character and unwavering commitment to the well-being of those he serves.
Shane's mentorship extends beyond the realm of livestock judging, as evidenced by the heartfelt testimonies of those he has guided. Whether it's providing invaluable coaching to aspiring meat judges or offering words of encouragement to instill confidence in hesitant participants, Shane's influence knows no bounds. When a 4-H member had nearly given up due to lack of self-confidence, Shane gave her encouragement and guidance, and she returned to the team. Shane spends many hours with the older youth in his county, discussing their big dreams and goals and offering advice. He graciously shares his nationwide agriculture network to help those youth achieve their goals. Some of those young people have gone on to be recruited by multiple universities based on their experiences in Shane’s 4-H Meats Judging Program. In the words of one of his mentees, “Shane is my favorite coach because he has helped me multiple times with meats judging and he’s also a very kind, caring human. Throughout my meats judging career, I have learned a lot of things from Shane. I will forever be grateful.”
In every endeavor, Shane's priority remains clear: to provide the youth he mentors with the tools, resources, and support they need to succeed. His unwavering commitment to their growth and development serves as a testament to his selflessness and dedication to the 4-H program.
North Central Region Volunteer of the Year
Shane Giedd
Shane Giedd is a dedicated and humble 4-H volunteer. Despite his busy schedule as an agriculturalist managing his family ranch, Shane dedicates an extraordinary amount of time, resources, and talent to enriching the 4-H experience for today's youth...
