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WASHINGTON, DC (June 26, 2025) The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees welcomes Michael Lavin, founder and managing partner of Germin8 Ventures, to its Board of Trustees. A recognized leader in leveraging science and technology to transform the Ag supply chain and global food systems, Lavin brings deep expertise in emerging technologies and partnership models that align with 4-H’s commitment to innovation.
At Germin8 Ventures, Lavin leads a venture capital firm that backs pioneering technologies that drive resilience and reshape supply chains. With a portfolio spanning agriculture, biotechnology, and AI, Germin8 supports innovative startups that provide solutions for future-proofing the farm, nutrition, and food security. Additionally, Lavin serves as Vice Chairman of OSI Group, a premier global supplier of custom value-added food products to the world's leading foodservice and retail food brands.
“I’m honored to join the 4-H Board of Trustees and contribute to an organization that empowers the next generation of leaders,” Lavin said. “Our nation’s youth are a projection of America’s future, and I am grateful for the opportunity to support 4-H’s mission to equip youth with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive.”
Lavin currently serves on the Board’s Investment Subcommittee, providing strategic guidance on investment decisions. His insights support long-term growth and mission-driven impact.
“As we look to prepare youth for tomorrow, Michael’s extensive knowledge recognizing innovative systems and deep understanding of agriculture and food sectors will make him a key contributor to our strategic vision,” said Mark Berven, Chair of National 4-H Council’s Board of Trustees.
Lavin’s appointment reflects 4-H’s ongoing commitment to excellence in leadership and its strategic focus on food, agriculture, AI and innovation to shape a better future for all.
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs reach nearly six million
young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through the Beyond Ready national initiative, 4-H aims to increase that number to ten million youth annually by 2030. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Archana Gharpuray started her career at Hughesnet over 35 years ago as a software engineer. Today, she leads the software development teams for the Hughesnet JUPITER satellite ground systems. Her team of around 100 engineers collaborates with experts worldwide to create cutting-edge satellite ground technology.
What sparked your interest in a STEM Career? What training/education did you participate in to pursue this career path?
Growing up, I was the kid who always asked why. Why does this work? How can I make it better? That endless curiosity led me down a path I never expected but has shaped my life in amazing ways.
My journey into engineering began at home. My dad noticed my interest and encouraged me to explore communications engineering – a field not many girls chose at the time. But that only made me more determined. I wanted to understand the world and build something meaningful.
After high school, I enrolled in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Telecommunications. It was both exciting and challenging. There were times when I was buried in complex math or struggling with tough group projects. But through it all, my passion for creating solutions kept me going. There's a special kind of magic in seeing something you helped design actually work. That feeling never gets old.
What are some skills that you use day-to-day that people would be surprised you need to know?
Engineering is about way more than just equations. Every day, I use skills like communication, creativity, and teamwork. Whether I’m explaining technical ideas to non-engineers, writing detailed reports, or brainstorming new designs, I’ve learned that engineering is as much about people as it is about technology.
Creative problem-solving is at the heart of what we do. It's not just about getting the right answer - it’s about finding better answers, new ideas, and fresh perspectives. And almost nothing in engineering is done alone. Teamwork isn’t optional - it’s essential.
"You don’t need to have it all figured out - you just need to be curious and willing to learn."
What advice would you give to someone interested in turning their passion for STEM into a career?
If you’re someone who loves puzzles, questions, and building things - big or small - then engineering might be the perfect fit for you. My advice? Start exploring now. Build a simple circuit. Take something apart just to see how it works. Join a STEM club, try a free coding class online, or volunteer for a school tech project.
And here’s the most important thing: you don’t have to be perfect to pursue engineering. You just have to start. Mistakes, failures, and messy first tries are all part of the process. That’s where the real learning—and growth—happens.
Jill Bramble, 4-H President and CEO, and Kristine Dixon, Charles Schwab Foundation Executive Director
Today’s young people are ambitious and eager to work toward economic success. As we see a growing number of youth seeking content from financial advice influencers on TikTok (aka FinTok) and other platforms, it’s clear that there’s a strong demand for trustworthy information on how to achieve their financial goals.
According to National 4-H Council’s Beyond Ready survey of American teens, these goals include owning a home (77%), being financially secure (68%), and living debt-free (67%). Many young people also aspire to own a business (36%), a goal especially high among Black teens (55%). This same research revealed 41% of teens wish money management was taught at their school. Ensuring that financial literacy education is broadly available is a crucial part of helping youth make their dreams a reality.
The unique challenges young people face today – such as growing credit card debt compared to previous generations and delaying major life milestones like homeownership due to financial concerns – make it even more essential that we provide them with guidance on how to navigate the 21st century economy.
Schools are expected to do more with less. While some education systems make financial literacy a part of their curriculum, there is still a critical gap to fill in many communities across the country. But schools can’t do it alone.
To ensure young people are Beyond Ready to succeed, leaders across corporate and nonprofit sectors must step up, working with schools and communities to make modern, relevant financial literacy education and tools available to young people nationwide.
One example of successful collaboration is the 4-H Smart Cents program. 4-H educators from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension collaborate with skilled professionals through a partnership with Charles Schwab Foundation to create a financial literacy playbook for educators across the country. The lessons cover essential, practical topics like paying for college and managing credit card spending. The program provides a roadmap for how leaders across the private and nonprofit sectors can expand financial literacy education outside of the traditional classroom.
Inside Nebraska schools, the state’s Financial Literacy Act requires at least five high school credit hours in personal finance or financial literacy before graduation. Nebraska schools also partner with local banks for in-school savings programs that encourage kids to develop positive saving habits. These creative collaborations – across government, education, nonprofit, and corporate sectors – create financial education resources that benefit Nebraska students, helping cement the state’s status as a leader in this space.
While the priorities of rural youth may look different compared to youth in urban areas, depending on factors such as transportation or career interests, basic personal finance principles are universal. Students who have a strong foundation in financial literacy are better equipped to save and invest their money, set financial goals for the future, and in some cases, even start a business before graduating high school. Equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their money is crucial for the long-term growth and prosperity of our nation.
The world is moving at a rapid pace, and financial literacy will remain an essential skill for young people. With smart investments in teaching these basic life skills, we can empower youth to become confident in their financial decisions and their economic outlook for the future. And working collaboratively across sectors that help emphasize financial literacy and partnerships like Schwab and 4-H, it ensures that youth have the essential skills to become Beyond Ready for work and life and build essential skills for success that drive even better results.
_________
The Charles Schwab Foundation is a nonprofit, private foundation, classified by the IRS as a charity under 501(c), (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is neither a part of the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (member SIPC) nor its parent company The Charles Schwab Corporation.
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When I first stepped foot in Austin, I was filled with excitement, confidence, and motivated for the opportunities SXSW EDU were sure to bring. I felt Beyond Ready. Reflecting about this opportunity last summer, I recall a mix of nerves and determination. 4-H had given me so much throughout my career, and I wanted to use this incredible opportunity as a chance to represent the organization in the best light. I prepared for months to ensure I captured the experience of 6 million young people involved in 4-H.
From participating in Clovers and Company to being honored as a Youth in Action awardee, my 4-H journey has been nothing short of a series of projects and programs that taught me the skills to be ready for life. The leadership skills I gained as a 4-H officer and the decision-making skills I learned from judging teams, and the empathy I learned from community service has shaped me into the person I am today.
At South by Southwest EDU (SXSW EDU), I connected with people from varied backgrounds and experiences. Some were similar to mine and others were vastly different. A highlight was an invitation to breakfast with students from New York, California, Massachusetts and Texas for a Walton Family Foundation roundtable discussion. Sharing insights about 4-H with my peers underscored the power of youth voice, which was a theme that resonated deeply during my upcoming panel discussion later that day.
The panel I participated in was titled, “Community Power: Elevating Youth Through Learning Ecosystems.” It provided an opportunity to collaborate with Hannah Howard from Camp Fire, Manny Juarez of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, and Safaniya Stevenson from the Collaborative Communications Group who were also panelists and amazing mentors. Together, we shared the importance of positive youth development programs in shaping futures with the attendees in the room. I stressed it takes a village to raise a child.
During the panel presentation, as the only youth in a room full of adults, my favorite question was how adults can uplift youth voices in their educational spaces. This reflection allowed me to highlight how my SPARK champions empower me to find my passions in the most simple spaces. One of those places is through the nonprofit I started, I AM. It provides a voice to young Black girls to help them learn about confidence, develop life skills and opportunities to help them find their spark. I shared students don’t require a stage or flashy facilities to feel seen and heard; sometimes simply “pull up a chair and listen because change is already transpiring.”
This experience reinforced a pivotal lesson from 4-H: true growth happens outside of your comfort zone. The willingness to step up, take risks and learn from failures prepared me for moments like attending SXSW EDU. It’s this same mindset that makes me excited about my future career and life. I am beyond ready for the challenges, opportunities and adventures to come.
Amiyah Elam
If my friends ever asked: “Is 4-H the right fit for me?” I could answer – unequivocally – YES! 4-H is the perfect match for anyone who wants to unlock a future full of possibilities.
My own 4-H journey began as a 5-year-old Cloverbud in Hardin County, KY where I attended club meetings with my older sisters. When I turned 9, I joined more 4-H clubs and began taking more classes. Here are the ways that 4-H matched me with the lifelong skills and meaningful experiences that are part of who I am today:
PASSION
Part of discovering your spark – what interests and motivates you – involves trying lots of new things. Through 4-H, I was part of clubs like livestock, photography and sewing. By trying out new programs and projects, you learn quickly what you don’t like, find out what you’re good at, what you enjoy doing, and what you want to get better at.
For me, it was sewing. I was amazed by the endless projects I could make independently. This opened the door to many more opportunities and cemented my passion for sewing, crafting, and design. I quickly became obsessed with creating custom sewing patterns for my own pieces. Years later this would spiral into an endless imagination of textile styling, upcycled projects, and a passion for vintage and sustainable fashion.
The one piece of advice I give to young 4-H’ers: Take advantage of every opportunity 4-H has to offer. Don’t miss out, step outside your comfort zone, and find what you’re passionate about!
LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION
As a homeschooler, I had the flexibility to participate in anything my county, state, and National 4-H had to offer. As my involvement in the 4-H program escalated, so did my passion for leadership. I began creating clubs, classes and workshops. I learned to communicate with others, set and accomplish goals, and so much more.
Without the leadership opportunities I took part in as a young 4-H’er, I would never have had the courage to chair the Kentucky State Leadership Board, to serve as the 2020 Kentucky State Treasurer, or to join National 4-H Council’s Young Alumni Advisory Committee (YAAC). Being able to converse with influential state representatives and potential donors about 4-H was a huge advantage in developing my professionalism, confidence, and public speaking abilities.
RESILIENCY AND PROBLEM-SOLVING
My Kentucky 4-H State officer team faced many hardships due to the COVID-19 shutdown. While altering our state programs to reach youth through online experiences, I realized the importance of teamwork and adaptation. While so many opportunities were taken from us during the pandemic, we created new ones online and learned an entirely different skillset as leaders. Through video content, online communication, and social media platforms we connected to our fellow 4-H’ers in a way no other officer teams had before. Looking back, these skills were crucial in becoming a business owner.
CONFIDENCE
Growing up with seven sisters, we thrifted the majority of our clothing. Shopping second-hand was a way to express ourselves aside from hand-me-downs. I quickly realized I loved vintage clothing but didn't have the confidence to wear the eccentric styles I wanted. "Once I became involved in 4-H, I developed the confidence to try new things and step out of the box I kept myself in. Throughout my teenage years, that confidence developed into expressing myself through upcycling and styling vintage clothing.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND CREATIVITY
During the pandemic, I began documenting my thrifting adventures and creating style content on my Instagram business account. I started collecting, styling and selling my vintage clothing items, thereby creating a business for myself. Within a few months, I was able to quit my part-time job at a realtor’s office and sell vintage full-time.
After establishing an online presence, I opened a brick-and-mortar shop at 18 years old. Since the opening of Panoramic Vintage, I have moved into a larger location in downtown Leitchfield, Kentucky.
VOLUNTEERISM
As an entrepreneur, I am able to create my own schedule to include my 4-H involvement, church volunteering, and family-focused lifestyle. Once I aged out of 4-H, I wanted to give back to my county and district programs by creating 4-H clubs, workshops, and by being an active member in my local, regional, and national 4-H offices.
COMMUNITY
Without my past 17 years of 4-H experiences, I wouldn't be a fraction of the leader, business owner, or community volunteer I am today. I hope to continue volunteering within the 4-H program to influence fellow 4-Her’s to achieve their goal and dreams.
Personally and professionally, it’s easy for me to see how 4-H is woven into the fabric of my life. It has given me the skills I need, the community I adore, and the career I dreamt of. I’m still in awe of how surreal it is to help others discover their style through sustainable fashion. I hope to continue growing Panoramic Vintage and investing in others the way 4-H invested in me.
Want to follow along with my business and adventures? Visit panoramicvintage.com, follow me on social @panoramic.vintage, or check out one of my vintage pop-ups throughout the country!
If you’re a teen wondering how you can be matched with experiences like these, join 4-H today. Or if you just care about young people and want them to discover their spark while making memories that last a lifetime, please make a gift. Donate today. Your gift matches kids with the skills and experiences they need to be Beyond Ready – like me – for whatever comes their way.
WASHINGTON, DC (December 09, 2024) – The National 4-H Council received a $15 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to advance its 4-H Beyond Ready initiative, a comprehensive program that will equip 10 million youth by 2030 with essential career and character development as fundamental elements for work and life. This funding is part of Lilly Endowment’s Character Development Through Youth Programs initiative, which supports organizations focused on cultivating positive character traits in young people across the nation.
Findings from a recent 4-H Youth Voice Survey, conducted by Hart Research, show schools can’t prepare students for life and work alone. The impact of out-of-school programs like 4-H are critical to youth development. According to the survey, 77% of youth said out-of-school programs help build confidence, compared to 63% who said the same about in-school programs. Additionally, 62% of youth said these programs help them manage stress, whereas 49% report the same for school-based programs.
Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will expand its efforts to:
- Invest in Educators: To strengthen the capacity of adult mentors, volunteers and educators who deliver character-building experiences.
- Expand Access to Character-Building Programs: To increase youth access to transformative programs that help develop their personal and professional skills.
- Mobilize the 4-H Network: To leverage the extensive 4-H network to create a nationwide movement focused on preparing youth for success in both work and life.
Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council, emphasizes the significance of this initiative: “Lilly Endowment’s investment shines a light on the importance of character development in youth programs. We can provide more outreach, programs and support to young people so they are ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.”
As one of eight organizations selected for this significant investment, 4-H will also develop evaluation tools to measure its progress.
“From the earliest days of its grantmaking, the Endowment has supported projects to encourage character development, especially among young people,” said Ted Maple, the Endowment’s vice president for education and youth programs. “We are heartened by the thoughtful and strategic approaches these youth-serving organizations are taking to support children and youth in developing character traits that will be important for them in their future roles as individuals, family members and citizens.”
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
About Lilly Endowment Inc.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based, private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly and his sons, Eli and J.K. Jr., through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although gifts of stock remain the financial bedrock of the Endowment, the Endowment is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. The Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion.
WASHINGTON, DC (October 15, 2024) – Today, National 4-H Council announced 2025 4-H Youth In Action Award Winners, with each 4-H youth receiving a $5,000 scholarship in recognition of their achievements and positive community impact that shows how they are Beyond Ready for the future.
Kaitlyn (Katie) Culbert, 18, Toms River, New Jersey, Rutgers University Cooperative Extension: Culbert turned her passion for pollinators into action through her local 4-H Busy Bees Beekeeping Club. Her research on native plants and honeybee survival has been published in Harvard’s Journal of Emerging Investigators and she has worked to advance pro-pollinator legislation in her home state. Culbert has served as National 4-H Pollinator Week Ambassador and received multiple awards for her environmental advocacy, including the 2023 President’s Environmental Youth Award and International Young Eco-Hero Award. She is now a first-year student at Harvard and looks to become an environmental lawyer.
Kaycie Hollrah, 16, St. Charles, Missouri, University of Missouri Cooperative Extension: Hollrah’s role in launching the Extension Council Youth Leadership program allows her to attend – and have a voice at – local Extension Council meetings as a non-voting member at the University of Missouri Extension. Representing youth in her community, this leadership program has opened the door for other young people to collaborate and make community related decisions that impact their lives and well-being. Hollrah’s experiences in 4-H have shaped her goal to work as a leader with the organization after college, creating additional avenues to help young people grow as servant-leaders and forge their own paths.
Kingston Ryals, 16, Vidalia, Georgia, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension: Initially hesitant to join 4-H due to a speech impediment, Ryals overcame his fear of public speaking and became President of the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors. He focuses his time on addressing educational disparities through his non-profit, The Rock Project. The organization has grown from serving five to 40 local African American youth and boasts a 100% college enrollment rate among its graduates. Ryals is a high school junior who plans to study law and political science.
Ronak Suchindra, 17, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, Penn State Cooperative Extension: Suchindra began 4-H as a shy youth and has now become a passionate advocate for STEM education through the online learning platform he created, Kids Connect. Kids Connect offers more than 50 STEM workshops that have reached over 3,000 students globally. Suchindra plans to study business and engineering with hopes to launch a future start-up.
“We are deeply proud of all that Katie, Kaycie, Kingston and Ronak have achieved in 4-H,” said Jill Bramble, President & CEO, National 4-H Council. ”We are excited to see them continue to engage and inspire their fellow 4-H’ers, making an impact in their communities and becoming Beyond Ready for college and life.”
Since 2010, the 4-H Youth in Action Awards recognize 4-H’ers who have applied the knowledge gained in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities and prepare for future careers (link to youth survey). In addition to receiving a $5,000 scholarship, the winners will spend 2025 showcasing their work and impact nationally, networking with prominent 4‑H alumni, and sharing their stories as official 4-H spokespeople.
To learn more about Youth in Action, please visit here.
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
WASHINGTON, DC (October 14, 2024) – U.S. teenagers seek more support to develop essential career, life and technical skills to help them succeed in the future, according to a new survey released by National 4-H Council.
Youth surveyed feel that out of school programs are more likely than school to give them confidence (77% vs. 63% in school) and the ability to manage stress (62% vs. 49%).
Additionally, young people see gaps in their current education as it relates to career pathways, technical skills and preparation for life after high school.
One noted skill gap is in financial literacy, where 41% of teens responded that they want to learn more about money management. Vrishab Nooka, a 17-year-old 4-H’er from North Carolina was one of those youth until he found his passion for finance through 4-H.
“Being a leader of my 4-H club has allowed me to develop excellent public speaking skills, leadership qualities like collaboration and relationship-building, and the ability to think critically to solve problems. These skills are important for any career, and thanks to 4-H, I’ve been able to learn and master them,” said Nooka, who plans to study economics in college.
The survey also shows that while about 70% of 4-H teens surveyed feel prepared to apply both technical and life skills in their careers, about half of all teens surveyed do not:
- Ability to understand and use AI tools (57% feel less prepared)
- Math skills (51%)
- Data and analytical skills (48%)
- Computer and technology skills: (46%)
- Leadership and team management (41%)
- Ability to manage stress (40%)
“The world is moving fast for our youth and schools can’t do it alone. 4-H is here – in every county and parish – to provide opportunities for all youth to build and practice foundational skills to help them thrive in work and life,” said Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “Our goal with Cooperative Extension is simple – to impact 10 million youth so they are healthy, productive and engaged; Beyond Ready to take on any challenge in school, in the workplace, in their communities and in life.”
Other Key Findings:
- Overall, teens prioritize financial security and personal fulfillment in their future careers. When looking at their ideal careers, teens say they prioritize opportunities that offer good pay (81%) and benefits (73%) and are in a field they find interesting (80%). They see aspects related to workplace culture, such as mentorship opportunities (49%) and longevity at one company (39%) as less important.
- Many industries interest teens, with health, arts and entertainment, and STEM leading the way, while STEM-related fields interest 4-H youth the most. The top five for all teens surveyed are:
- Health, Healthcare and Wellness (19%)
- Arts and Entertainment (17%)
- Engineering (14%)
- Computer Science and Technology (13%)
- Science, Research and Development, and Education (10%)
- 4-H teens surveyed are more likely to have plans for post-high school graduation than their peers:
- 40% more likely to pursue a college degree
- 2X more likely to obtain vocational or technical training
- 2X more likely to serve in the military.
- Entrepreneurship and reaching lifelong goals are higher for 4-H youth. The data shows that youth in 4-H are more confident in reaching important life goals like starting a business, being debt free, making a difference in their community and contributing to science.
The survey of 1,116 teenagers ages 13-18, including 273 4-H participants, was conducted online by Hart Research and fielded August 27 – September 9, 2024. It accompanies the launch of Beyond Ready, a new initiative set to reach ten million young people through 4-H’s local programming that prepares them for future careers and success in life.
To see the full survey results, click here. Learn more about Beyond Ready. For interview requests, please contact 4hcouncil@ssmandl.com.
ABOUT 4-H
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. Through Beyond Ready, 4-H will increase that number to ten million youth annually. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
.Thursday, September 12, 2024 (Washington, D.C.) – The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees welcomes Karis T. Gutter as the newest member of its board. As the current Head of Government and Industry Affairs for Corteva Agriscience, Americas, Gutter will bring a wealth of experience in sustainability, food security and innovation.
“Karis’ extensive background in agriculture and commitment to public service will enhance our efforts to ignite and inspire the next generation of leaders,” said Krysta Harden, National 4-H Council Board Chair and President & CEO of U.S. Dairy Export Council. “We’re excited to have his talents, leadership and experience as a Board member.”
A native of Terry, Mississippi, Gutter’s career began with his service in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. He furthered his impact through roles in local government with the Hinds County Board of Supervisors and on Capitol Hill, where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to Congressman Bennie G. Thompson. Gutter was also a Professional Staff Member for the House Committee on Homeland Security.
"I am honored to join the 4-H Board and contribute to its vital mission of preparing youth for their career and life,” said Gutter. “I look forward to leveraging my experience in agriculture and public service to support and advance the incredible work being done to empower young people.”
With a notable career spanning both public service and industry leadership, prior to Corteva Agriscience, Gutter also served as the Deputy Undersecretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services and as the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, where he played a crucial role in agricultural policy and support to providing education to military veterans and families.
Corteva Agriscience has been a long-standing partner with 4-H for many years. Through initiatives like the 4-H Pollinator Habitat partnership, employee volunteer efforts to promote sustainability, and active board leadership, the organization is committed to the support of positive youth development locally and nationally.
About National 4-H Council:
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
Tuesday, July 23, 2024 (Washington, DC) – The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees voted to add two new members who will help strengthen the organization’s commitment to preparing a new generation of young leaders for work and life. Janice Abraham, retired President & CEO of United Educators, and Darci Vetter, Head of Global Public Policy at PepsiCo bring extensive experience and expertise to support Council’s mission to increase investment and participation in Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program.
“We are thrilled to welcome Janice and Darci to our Board of Trustees,” said Krysta Harden, National 4-H Council Board Chair and President & CEO of U.S. Dairy Export Council. “Their expertise enhances our ability to serve Extension and ensure responsible stewardship of our resources. In addition, the Investment Subcommittee will play a crucial role in guiding, maintaining and growing our financial resources.”
Janice Abraham, Trustee
“The work of 4-H is critically important as it supports the positive development of the youth of this country,” said Abraham. “I am honored to serve on the Board of Trustees as we work with the states, counties, federal government and countless volunteers to prepare our youth to be engaged, healthy and productive citizens.”
As a seasoned risk management professional, Abraham led United Educators’ expansion as CEO for over 25 years, to serve over 1,600 schools, colleges and universities. The author of “Risk Management: An Accountability Guide for University and College Trustees,” prior to joining UE, Abraham served at Whitman College, Cornell University and the National Association of College and University Business Officers. As a former international banker for J.P. Morgan and with her current service on higher education and association boards, Abraham brings expertise from the insurance, finance, investment, risk management and higher education sectors.
Darci Vetter, PepsiCo’s Head of Global Public Policy
“I look forward to supporting Council’s initiatives that empower young people and strengthen communities,” Vetter said. “It is a privilege to support educators and youth within 4-H, contributing to the development of tomorrow's leaders.”
Vetter brings deep expertise in international trade and agricultural policy, including helping companies navigate complex supply chains and implement and report sustainability commitments. Before joining PepsiCo, she served as Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Deputy Under Secretary of Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services at USDA. Earlier in her career, she served on the Senate Finance Committee staff, and in the agriculture and environmental affairs offices at the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
In addition to welcoming new trustees, Council announced the establishment of an Investment Subcommittee that will oversee the management of short and long-term investments that help sustain and support Cooperative Extension programs across the country.
Investment Subcommittee Members:
- Trent McKnight (Chair): Founder, AgriCorps and Operating Partner, VestedWorld
- Janice Abraham: Retired President and CEO, United Educators
- Jim Borel: Board Chair, Neogen Corporation
- Christine Kelleher: Chief of Investments, National Gallery of Art
- Michael Lavin: Managing Partner, Germin8 Ventures
- Richard Maltsbarger: President & CEO, Pet Valu
About National 4-H Council:
4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H is the youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.
Learn more about 4H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
