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First-ever survey to examine tween and teen use of AI finds children think generative AI will benefit their education and careers, but express concerns about cheating and privacy
WASHINGTON, DC (February 29, 2024) – National 4-H Council today released a survey that explores young people’s knowledge and use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, specifically generative AI tools such as ChatGPT. The survey shows that while most young people (66%) express at least some understanding of what generative AI is and how it can be used, many kids (72%) are also seeking support from adults in learning how to use these tools correctly and with confidence.
The survey, the first of its kind to include responses from both tweens and teenagers (ages 9-17), also finds that young people are broadly optimistic about the potential of generative AI for their education and careers. A strong majority of respondents (64%) agreed that generative AI will help them learn things that they will need to know in their future careers, and 58% said it would help them improve how they learn at school. However, respondents also have concerns about AI, including how the technology could be used for cheating (61%) or to expose private information about them (53%).
The survey, which included 1,510 children ages 9-17, was fielded from November 5-16, 2023 by Hart Research and supported by Microsoft.
“As America’s largest youth development organization, 4-H has an important role to play in educating youth about generative AI. Preparing young people for the workforce of the future means ensuring that they have a solid understanding of these new technologies that are reshaping our world,” said Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “We are focused on meeting this need through educational content on CLOVER, our new digital learning platform, and through 4-H’s Cooperative Extension in-person programs.”
Additional findings from the survey include:
“Like with any new technology, we need to educate, empower and equip young people with the necessary skills to use generative AI in a responsible way,” said Courtney Gregoire, Chief Digital Safety Officer at Microsoft. “4-H’s findings help us all understand how youth are using these new tools. We welcome these insights as we continue to evolve our approach and provide additional resources to those who need them.”
The survey was designed and reviewed in a process involving experts from 4-H and University of California-Irvine. The survey was preceded by ten cognitive interviews with children within the target age group in October 2023 to test and refine the survey instrument. Children ages 9-12 were recruited exclusively through invitations sent initially to their parents or caregivers asking permission for them to participate. Children ages 13-17 were recruited directly.
To help children, educators and caregivers navigate conversations around generative AI, Microsoft recently released two new resources: a Family Safety Toolkit, which provides tips to caregivers on how to have conversations with children about generative AI, and a Classroom Toolkit, to equip educators with instructional information to create an immersive and effective learning experience with generative AI for students aged 13-15 years.
About National 4-H Council:
National 4‑H Council is the private sector, non-profit partner of Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program. Our executive team and Board of Trustees are committed to growing the capital investment in positive youth development so that all youth have the opportunity to thrive through 4‑H programs. We champion the belief that young people are leaders today and when given the opportunity to find their spark, work alongside caring adult mentors and use their voice, their potential is endless.
National 4‑H Council supports national and state 4‑H programs with a focus on fundraising, brand management, communications, and legal and fiduciary services.
Learn more about 4-H and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
WASHINGTON, DC (October 2, 2023) – National 4-H Council today announced the winners of the 2024 Youth In Action Awards, a national program sponsored by Bayer that recognizes four diverse young leaders who have made a positive impact in their communities.
The winners will each receive a $5,000 higher education scholarship and spend 2024 inspiring other youth by telling their 4-H story. In addition, they will have opportunities to showcase their work nationally, network with prominent 4‑H alumni, and serve as official 4-H spokespeople for Youth in Action.
The announcement was made during National 4-H Week, held October 1-7, 2023 to celebrate and showcase the opportunities and impact that 4‑H offers young people across the country.
The winners of the 2024 4-H Youth in Action Awards are:
“The 2024 Youth in Action Awards honor four incredible young people, each of whom are model examples of their generation – embodying a commitment to service, a love of their communities and a passion for leadership that represent the best of 4-H,” said Jill Bramble, President & CEO, National 4-H Council. “We are proud that Cooperative Extension’s 4-H programs have offered Katie, Amiyah, Reed, and Avani these opportunities to lead and tools to succeed, which they have used to make a positive impact on their communities and inspire other 4-H’ers to do the same.”
The 4-H Youth in Action Awards, sponsored in part by Bayer, began in 2010 to recognize young people who overcome challenges and use the knowledge they gain through participation in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their community.
To learn more about Youth in Action, please visit http://4-h.org/parents/4-h-youth-in-action/.
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. 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.
ABOUT BAYER
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of healthcare and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. At the same time, the Group aims to create value through innovation, growth, and high earning power. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development and to its social and ethical responsibilities as a corporate citizen. In fiscal 2015, the Group employed around 117,000 people and had sales of EUR 46.3 billion. Capital expenditures amounted to EUR 2.6 billion, R&D expenses to EUR 4.3 billion. These figures include those for the high-tech polymers business, which was floated on the stock market as an independent company named Covestro on October 6, 2015. For more information, go to www.bayer.com/.
As the mom of two Gen Z children, I know firsthand the challenges that our young people are facing, from the lingering impacts of the global pandemic and an ongoing mental health crisis, to the ever-evolving technological landscape. But, even in the face of tremendous change and uncertainty, this young generation has incredible promise: they are filled with purpose, they embrace diversity, they care about their communities, and they drive innovation.
In 4-H, we believe opportunity should not be pre-determined by any person’s circumstance. Our mission is to inspire all young people to thrive and achieve. Too many of America’s youth are lacking the opportunities that prepare them to lead in life and career. That’s why we are thrilled to bring Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program to even more young people with CLOVER by 4-H.
CLOVER is a digital learning platform that encourages hands-on learning in a fun and accessible way. Developed by Cooperative Extension and our network of land-grant universities, CLOVER’s content spans more than 20 subject areas, including STEM, emotional wellbeing, financial literacy, and career readiness. With both free and paid subscriptions, CLOVER is another way to ensure that young people everywhere have access to high-quality 4-H programming.
Key Things to Know About CLOVER
To kick off the launch of CLOVER, we have partnered with Netflix on an activity tied to the new movie Spy Kids: Armageddon. #GAMECLOVER builds on key themes of the movie by teaching young people the basics of coding and game design using an ‘escape room’ format. By expanding upon the popular Spy Kids experience, the #GAMECLOVER activity is an approachable way for kids to take an interest in STEM.
In the coming months, CLOVER users can continue their online STEM education with a collection of computer science activities ranging from computer basics to augmented reality, supported by Google.
CLOVER furthers our mission of equipping millions of 4-H’ers with the skills and confidence they need to excel in future careers and help solve the world’s biggest challenges. We look forward to seeing young people use CLOVER to spark creativity, explore future career paths, and grow their passion for learning.
To discover more and sign up for CLOVER, visit 4-h.org/clover.
Conversations with more than 80 funders, nonprofit leaders, and other experts highlight the urgency and mindset shifts needed to unlock capital and invest in the region.
BOSTON—August 24, 2023—Funders with fresh mindsets have a timely opportunity to invest in the Black rural South and help the region access large-scale funding that has the potential to fuel economic mobility, according to a new research study published today by The Bridgespan Group and National 4-H Council.
Of the approximately 200 rural counties in the South with Black populations of 25 percent or more (“the Black rural South”), all but two land in the bottom half for upward mobility for young people, previous Bridgespan and National 4-H Council research found. Yet these communities, with rich social and cultural capital, have contributed disproportionately to building the nation’s wealth and have tremendous ability to continue contributing to opportunity in our country with investment, particularly in our youth.
Mike Soskis, Bridgespan principal and co-author of the report, says, “The opportunities for impact are there: We’re seeing some funders moving from framings or misconceptions that deter investment to mindsets that can help fuel economic mobility for young people. And they’re noticing the tremendous opportunities and leaders in the region.”
According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report, approximately 30 percent of Black residents in non-metro areas live in poverty—a higher rate than any other race or ethnic group, urban or non-urban.
The Black rural South also sits at the intersection of three philanthropic funding challenges, according to the new study: Rural communities see less funding than their metro counterparts; the South has historically been substantially underfunded; and leaders of color systemically receive less funding than white leaders.
“Still, in our conversations with more than 80 funders, nonprofit leaders, 4-H staff at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), researchers, and field experts, we found much to be excited about: Caring communities and innovative organizations are employing a number of promising approaches to support economic mobility for young people in the Black rural South,” says Angie Estevez Prada, Bridgespan consultant and report co-author.
The report highlights examples from leading funders in the region and articulates four mindset shifts more philanthropists must make to take advantage of the numerous opportunities that exist:
“Creating pathways to opportunity for young people in the Black rural South is difficult. But for funders willing to adopt these mindsets, this is an area where even one funder, especially one funder, can help enact positive change,” says Tay Moore, former member of National 4-H Council’s Youth Alumni Advisory Committee and Board of Trustees. “The Black rural South is ready. The region is hungry for change and deserving of investment.”
Effective August 18th, Bramble, currently Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer of National 4-H Council takes the reins from outgoing President and CEO, Jennifer Sirangelo, who is departing to lead Points of Light
CHEVY CHASE, MD (July 11, 2023) – National 4-H Council, today announced the departure of Jennifer Sirangelo, the current President and CEO. Sirangelo will depart on August 18, 2023 when she will transition leadership of the organization to an experienced National 4-H Council executive and 4-H alumna, Jill Bramble. After an 18-month, externally-led executive succession process, the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees unanimously supported the appointment of Bramble, current Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, as its new President and CEO. She has more than 18 years of successful leadership experience at the organization and a deep commitment to National 4-H Council's mission, values, and goals.
“This is a bittersweet moment for me,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, outgoing President and CEO of National 4-H Council. “It has truly been an honor to serve alongside National 4-H Council Associates and thousands of Cooperative Extension 4-H leaders and educators, preparing America’s young people to thrive through the life-changing impact of the 4-H program. I am so proud of all that the 4-H Movement has accomplished in creating opportunity for all young people. While it’s hard to step away from 4-H, this transition is easier knowing that Jill will be National 4-H Council’s next leader. Jill is the best person for this role. I have the utmost confidence in her and know the future is bright with her at the helm.”
Sirangelo has been an executive leader at National 4-H Council for 17 years, including nearly 10 years as President and CEO. She oversaw a period of transformational growth in Council’s revenue, brand relevance, financial health, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) impact. During her tenure, National 4-H Council’s revenue sustainably grew by 10X, and the organization launched a brand and purpose platform that prioritized diverse 4-H youth and alumni voices and attracted new multi-million dollar investments. A vocal and visible champion of DEI, she led the organization in raising millions in equity funding for 4-H programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and guided the organization through the extreme business challenges of the pandemic to emerge in strong financial health.
"We are deeply grateful to Jennifer for her outstanding leadership and contributions to National 4-H Council and America’s young people. She will be missed," said Krysta Harden, Chair of National 4-H Council’s Board of Trustees. "We are fortunate to have a leader of the caliber of Jill Bramble who is prepared to build on the organization’s growth and continue championing the importance of Cooperative Extension’s 4-H programs for the nation's youth."
As the new President and CEO of National 4-H Council, Bramble brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission. She is a fourth generation 4-H alumna who rose through the ranks of National 4-H Council starting as a grant writer to now take on the top leadership position. Throughout her time at National 4-H Council, Bramble has consistently demonstrated her dedication to empowering young people, fostering innovation, and strengthening partnerships. Her strategic insights, collaborative approach, and passion for positive youth development make her the ideal candidate to lead National 4-H Council into its next phase of growth and impact.
"I am honored to step into the role of National 4-H Council’s President and CEO," said Jill Bramble, incoming President and CEO of National 4-H Council. "I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of 4-H programs. As the leader of National 4-H Council, I will spend every single day ensuring all kids have access to the powerful, life-changing outcomes that I experienced in my own childhood. I have endless faith in the leadership of the next generation if we give them the tools they need to be successful. My role will be to empower Cooperative Extension 4-H educators to help America’s youth reach their full potential.”
As the new CEO, Bramble will focus National 4-H Council on transforming the capital investment in 4-H positive youth development. Located in every community across America, and fueled by the nation’s land-grant universities, 4-H’s proven programs are growing a workforce-ready generation of purpose-driven leaders. By nurturing innovation, scaling national partnerships, enhancing program effectiveness, and fostering inclusive and diverse communities, National 4-H Council strives to accelerate Cooperative Extension’s growth to 10 million youth.
About National 4-H Council:
National 4‑H Council is the private sector, non-profit partner of Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program. Our executive team and Board of Trustees are committed to growing the capital investment in positive youth development so that all youth have the opportunity to thrive through 4‑H programs. We champion the belief that young people are leaders today and when given the opportunity to find their spark, work alongside caring adult mentors and use their voice, their potential is endless.
National 4‑H Council supports national and state 4‑H programs with a focus on fundraising, brand management, communications, and legal and fiduciary services.
Learn more about 4-H and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Julia Majors
Manager, Public Relations
jmajors@fourhcouncil.edu
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 30, 2023) – Today, National 4-H Council and the Smithsonian Institution announced a new partnership to increase access to civic and cultural experiences for thousands of teens. Through a variety of shared resources and activations such as visits to Smithsonian museums, national 4-H events, digital storytelling projects, and online content, 4-H and the Smithsonian will provide increased opportunities for young people to learn and explore.
4-H is the country’s largest youth development organization. Delivered by the nation’s Cooperative Extension system, 4-H strives to eliminate the opportunity gap facing America’s kids through diverse programming, life skills building, and mentorship. The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. Established for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge,” the Smithsonian has always been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery, and the Institution has recently set a goal to reach every classroom in the nation.
Over the next two years, 4-H’ers from across the country will have the opportunity to participate locally and online in project-based learning. Teens can participate in a variety of programs, including Museum on Main Street (MoMS), an outreach program from the Smithsonian that brings traveling exhibitions, educational resources, and programming to small towns across the U.S. This year the program will pair 4-H teens in two to three states with subject matter experts to develop a project benefitting their communities via Cooperative Extension’s 4-H programs and the Smithsonian. In addition, 4-H youth attending National 4-H Council’s annual summits—Ignite by 4-H, True Leaders in Equity Institute, and Citizen Washington Focus—will receive guided tours and participate in learning sessions centered around themes in democracy and civics, diversity, equity, access & inclusion, STEM, and careers at five Smithsonian museums.
Digital educational resources created by 4-H and the Smithsonian will also be available on Clover by 4-H, and the Smithsonian’s Learning Lab.
“It is important that the Smithsonian’s vast educational resources are available to all Americans—from those in major cities to rural towns—not just those who visit our museums,” said Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch. “Through new technology, virtual exhibitions, and resources and now this partnership with 4-H, we are able to reach more people than ever before and inspire learning across the country.”
“Helping young people widen their perspective through cultural and historical lenses can lead them to find their spark and further develop skills that are critical to civil discourse, such as tolerance, curiosity, and leadership,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO of National 4-H Council. “These opportunities inspire young people to dream big and encourage them to drive positive change in their communities.”
The partnership will kick off in June with guided Smithsonian tours during Citizenship Washington Focus, 4-H’s annual leadership and civic engagement experience that brings high school students to Washington, D.C. to gain the skills and experiences to become effective change agents.
For more information on 4-H and Smithsonian experiences, visit 4-H.org.
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 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 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
ABOUT THE SMITHSONIAN
Since its founding in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution has been committed to inspiring generations through knowledge and discovery. It is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Two of the 21 museums—the National Museum of the American Latino and the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum—are in the early planning stages. There are more than 6,300 Smithsonian employees and 5,100 volunteers. The total number of objects, works of art, and specimens at the Smithsonian is estimated at nearly 157 million, of which nearly 148 million are scientific specimens at the National Museum of Natural History. www.si.edu
Media Contacts
Julia Majors
National 4-H Council
jmajors@fourhcouncil.edu
(202) 262-1782
Alex Fairchild
Smithsonian
fairchilda@si.edu
(202) 256-8735
I was eight years old when I first saw food insecurity in my community.
Through Bloomington/Normal's annual Diwali Food Drive, I witnessed the impacts of hunger firsthand, as I collected, organized, and delivered nonperishable food items to several local charitable organizations. That was the first time I realized that kids like me-families just like mine-struggled with something many of us take for granted: healthy, nutritious food. The issue of food insecurity particularly intrigued me because it seemed as if it was often ignored, despite the fundamental role health plays in the lives of everyday Americans. However, as I grew, 4-H provided me with an arena to address this challenge.
First through the McLean County Hunger Ambassadors, and later on through [former] Illinois Food Advocacy Team and Illinois Healthy Living Delegation, I was able to work with 4H-ers statewide to improve food security and healthy living in Illinois. Most significantly, our team rolled out $23,600 in mini-grant funding, supporting 30 youth-led food advocacy projects-varying from SPIN club community gardens to birthday backpack kits-over the span of two years.
However, never did I think that I would have the honor of representing 4-H at the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health this past September. As a speaker in conversation with the Second Gentleman and Ambassador Susan Rice, I had the opportunity to share my food advocacy and healthy living story and represent 4-H on a national stage. Furthermore, as an attendee of the conference, I was amazed by the profound impact speakers from across the country had had on their communities when it came to supporting healthy living. Whether it was hearing about Boston Public Schools' innovative "My Way Cafes", or being galvanized by guest speaker José Andrés' call-to-action, my main takeaway was clear: there is no limit to the power of a passionate individual rallying behind a project.
Of course, with the amazing resources that 4-H can provide its members, I am certain that our youth can play an essential role in leading the charge to improve healthy living across our country. And so, to those youth impassioned by the idea of eliminating food insecurity, I have a few suggestions:
1) Start out small:
Tackling a convoluted issue like food insecurity can seem impossible at first, but instead, if you can find one community to leave an impact on, you'll be amazed at the impact you can have.
2) Find a team to support you:
The great thing about this point is that you've already got one: 4-H! An organization like 4-H, can provide you with the mentors, resources, and passionate peers you need to sustain a project idea you might have. Chances are, your extension or state is already doing something to address healthy living, and you can use that as a connection point to get started on your own project.
3) Don't be afraid to fail:
This one might seem a little odd, but I mean it wholeheartedly. Don't let your fears-your age or inexperience or whatever else-put you in a box. Dream big about your impact and follow through with the work ethic to back it up! You might not always achieve your goals, but you will definitely learn from the experience.
As announced at the Conference, it is our nation's imperative to end hunger in our country by 2030. I hope you will join 4-H in achieving that mission. After all, the 4th H is indeed health.
Youth With Outstanding Community Impact Will Serve as National Spokespeople for Addressing the Digital Divide and Creating Economic Opportunity
CHEVY CHASE, MD (January 31, 2023) - National 4-H Council today announced the 2023 4-H Tech Changemaker National Ambassadors. They will serve as spokespeople for the program which empowers young people to deliver digital skill-building workshops to adults, resulting in practical, real-world solutions that create economic opportunity and workforce development in local communities. The three teens were selected for their outstanding impact in addressing the digital divide and creating economic opportunities within their communities.
The 4-H Tech Changemakers program trains and equips teens who use their tech savvy to teach adults how to use and leverage digital resources to find employment, including online job seeking, marketing themselves on social media, software use, and more. The $5.75 million investment from coalition partners Verizon, Tractor Supply Company, and Microsoft will allow 4-H teens to bring vital digital skills to more than 35,000 adults across more than 15 states, with a focus on rural regions and communities of color.
The 2023 4-H Tech Changemaker National Ambassadors include:
Ivan Becerril, [18], Nogales, AZ:
Ivan joined the University of Arizona Extension 4-H Tech Changemakers program to help teach adults remote access technology during the pandemic. Over time, he saw a wide range of wants and needs across different groups within his community and began adapting his lessons to teach broader skills, from workforce development and communication to identifying cybersecurity threats. He soon began teaching in Spanish after identifying a strong need for digital skills training and education in his community that borders Mexico. Ivan has educated nearly 3,000 people to date.
"The massive digital divide has robbed the people in my community of opportunities and chances to grow and prosper. Whether I'm teaching in English or Spanish, helping elderly people connect with families, or equipping job seekers with skills that strengthen their resumes, the 4-H Tech Changemakers program has allowed me to make a difference and empower others to improve their own lives," said Ivan.
Zamaria Kinsey, [15], Sunbury, NC:
Zamaria joined the 4-H Tech Changemakers program sponsored by Cooperative Extension at N.C. Agricultural and Technical State University to help her rural community that faces a lack of internet access, speed, and providers, making it difficult for youth to do homework or adults to attend virtual meetings. After she began teaching key digital skills, she saw her tips spread among her community through word of mouth, growing the impact of her work. She is now a staunch advocate for increasing internet access in regions like hers.
"The 4-H Tech Changemakers program came at a perfect time as I noticed a gap in basic computer literacy skills in my community. When I first started leading workshops, people of all ages were new to the basic functions of a computer or how to navigate the internet. The program has helped me bridge this gap and set my community up for success as they continue to learn new skills," said Zamaria.
Hannah Jones, [16], Adairsville, GA:
Hannah joined the University of Georgia Extension 4-H Tech Changemakers program to develop the local workforce so more people can live, work, and thrive in her rural community. While working with her county government, she also noticed the opportunity to teach government employees how to hone their technology skills. Her workshops have educated hundreds of people from a variety of backgrounds and professional industries to date.
"My belief in the untapped potential of my county inspired me to teach digital skills and help strengthen our growing workforce. From teaching educators to use technology and energize their classrooms to leading strong password workshops, the Tech Changemakers program has allowed me to help my community grow and encourage people to step outside of their comfort zones, taking their digital skill sets to new heights," said Hannah.
Through 4-H Tech Changemakers, hundreds of teens are teaching digital skills classes designed to help everyone from small business owners to farmers.
About 4-H Tech Changemakers
4-H Tech Changemakers empowers young people to address the country's widening digital divide by providing them with the education and tools they need to teach digital employability skills, such as online job seeking, social media marketing and software use to adults in their communities. With the support of 4-H's Cooperative Extension network, 19 Land-Grant Universities (LGUs)-9 of which are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)-will prepare 4-H teen leaders to teach critical digital skills to adults in their community. The program recently expanded its commitment to service more than 50,000 adults across 164 communities nationwide.
To learn more, visit 4-H Tech Changemakers.
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. 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 and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
CHEVY CHASE, MD (January 18, 2023) - National 4-H Council has announced the election of three new leaders to its Board of Trustees; Dana McNabb, Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, General Mills, John Ordus, Executive Vice President, Chief Stores Officer, Tractor Supply Company, and Priya Kumar, 4-H Young Alumni Advisory Committee (YAAC) Representative to the Board of Trustees and Student, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
McNabb, Ordus, and Kumar will support National 4-H Council's mission to increase investment and participation in the nation's largest youth development organization. "As enthusiastic advocates for positive youth development, we are thrilled to welcome Dana, John and Priya to our Board of Trustees," said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4 H Council. "Their leadership will be invaluable as we support and grow Cooperative Extension's 4-H program to create opportunities for all young people," said Sirangelo.
"As an alumna, I'm beyond excited to support 4-H's commitment to growing the next generation of diverse leaders," said Dana McNabb, Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, General Mills. "Growing up on a farm, I saw first-hand the impact and importance of hands-on learning. 4-H helped me build my confidence and gain valuable skills and friendships that have shaped the leader I am today. I'm honored to join National 4-H Council's Board of Trustees to help provide talented 4-H-ers opportunities to meet their full potential."
"It's a great honor to join the Board and build on Tractor Supply's longstanding partnership with National 4-H Council and thousands of local 4-H chapters," said John Ordus, Executive Vice President, Chief Stores Officer, Tractor Supply Company. "I look forward to contributing to the meaningful and transformative work 4-H does in our communities to support youth as they grow to be the leaders of tomorrow."
"I am very grateful for the opportunity to join and learn from the Board of Trustees to contribute to the future of 4-H," said Priya Kumar, 4-H Young Alumni Advisory Committee (YAAC) Representative to the Board of Trustees and Student, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
"Growing up, 4-H sparked my passion for STEM by allowing me to experiment with various approaches to project development and leadership. I hope more youth can flourish through the pursuit of their interests."
Dana McNabb - Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, General Mills
Dana McNabb is Chief Strategy and Growth Officer at General Mills, with global accountability for the company's strategic approach to long-term growth.
McNabb assumed her current role in July 2021, after serving as Group President of the company's Europe & Australia Segment. Previously, she was President of the U.S. Cereal Operating Unit, which includes brands like Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Chex, Lucky Charms and Wheaties. McNabb has extensive global experience, and her work has spanned the company's major businesses, including Snacks, Meals and Dairy, in addition to Cereal.
McNabb is a graduate of the University of Ottawa, completed her MBA at the London School of Business and is a proud 4-H alum.
John Ordus - Executive Vice President, Chief Stores Officer, Tractor Supply Company
John Ordus has served as Executive Vice President, Chief Stores Officer of Tractor Supply Company since February 2020 and is a member of the Company's Executive Committee. In this role, he oversees Store Operations, Customer Solutions, Loss Prevention, Store Administration, Real Estate and Construction.
With over two decades of experience in Farm and Ranch retail, John joined Tractor Supply as a Store Manager in 2002 and held various leadership roles spanning from District Manager to Regional Director from 2003 to 2009, before becoming the Vice President of Store Operations of the Southwest region from 2009 to 2015. Beginning in 2015, John served as the Senior Vice President, Store Operations and was named a member of the Company's Executive Committee in June 2019.
Prior to joining Tractor Supply, John was a Store Manager at Quality Farm & Fleet from 1998 to 2002. He attended Central Michigan University.
Priya Kumar - Student, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Priya Kumar is a bioengineering student working towards a dual degree in computer science + chemistry and a minor in business at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She is constantly in search of new and challenging opportunities as she works toward her goal of combining medicine, engineering, and entrepreneurship. She is Vice-President and Co-Founder of chronic kidney disease prescreening startup, ProteCKD. Through the University of Chicago CNVC program, she is also co-founding a medical device start-up. In 2022, she began the implementation of a STEM camp and research study in India. After graduation, she plans to attend medical or graduate school.
Kumar grew up in an Indian-Japanese household in Washington State. In 2012, she became involved in 4-H. As a youth, she was heavily involved in an underwater robotics club and the statewide Know Your Government Conference. Now, as a Young Alumni Leader of the WA State 4-H Teen Equity and Inclusion Task Force, Kumar is passionate about engaging youth in STEM and diversity, equity, and inclusion projects. She is the 2023 Young Alumni Advisory Committee representative to the National 4-H Council's Board of Trustees.
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 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 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.
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New York Jets linebacker and Tennessee 4‑H Alumnus Avery Williamson is joined by Ohio 4‑H member Joyona for a Day in the Life experience. Avery gives Joyona a tour of his home and farm, while sharing his 4‑H experience and passion for agriculture. The experience is sponsored by Nationwide.
A group of Michigan 4‑H’ers spent a day with IndyCar driver and California 4‑H alum, Charlie Kimball at the Detroit Grand Prix for an exciting Day in the Life experience where they learned about the STEM behind racing.
Illinois 4‑H’er Caleb joins Olympic legend and gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee for an exciting Day in the Life experience where they explore urban agriculture.
4‑H Grown alumna Aubrey Plaza is promoting her new film, and she brought Delaware 4‑H’er Andrew along for the ride in the newest “Day in the Life” experience.
Georgia 4‑H’er Callista hangs out with 4‑H Grown alumna and National 4‑H Spokesperson Jennifer Nettles in a new “Day in the Life” experience.
Carla Hall, co-host of ABC’s The Chew and proud 4‑H Grown alumna from Tennessee, pays it forward to collegiate New York 4‑H’er Jasmine.
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