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New Trustees to leverage extensive business experience to increase investment in nation’s largest youth development organization

Chevy Chase, MD (December 19, 2019) – National 4‑H Council has announced the election of three new Trustees to its Board – James C. Collins, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Corteva Agriscience; Wade Miquelon, Chief Executive Officer, JOANN; and Tennessee 4‑H alumnus Justin Cross, Young Alumni Advisory Committee (YAAC) Representative.

The new Trustees will be important partners in the Board’s work to support the 4‑H system’s ambitious goal of growing 4‑H to reach 10 million young people by 2025, as well as to continue to engage alumni. The organization wants to ensure that millions more young people have access to the life-changing programs delivered by the nation’s public universities and Cooperative Extension System.

Collins and Miquelon bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience in the agriculture and retail industries respectively and will play an integral role in supporting the implementation of National 4‑H Council’s strategic plan, which was created to support the Cooperative Extension System’s growth plans. Cross, a senior at the University of Tennessee, will bring a fresh perspective given his many years as a 4‑H’er, his role on the YAAC and his passion for both business and agriculture.

“The combined and varied expertise of our new Trustees will be invaluable as we strive to grow more young people ready for life and career,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “They will be important partners in the Board’s work to support the 4‑H system’s goal of significantly increasing investment and participation in Cooperative Extension’s 4‑H program.”

James C. Collins, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Corteva Agriscience

Jim Collins is the Chief Executive Officer of Corteva Agriscience, an independent pure-play agriculture company after its successful spinoff from DowDuPont in June 2019. Previously, he was Chief Operating Officer for the Agriculture Division of DowDuPont. Collins worked with the division’s leadership to build the foundation to drive Corteva’s top and bottom-line performance into the future, while delivering cost synergies. This includes introducing a variety of new products from its innovation pipeline, successfully launching its new multi-channel, multi-brand growth strategy, and establishing a best-in-class cost structure.

Collins joined DuPont in 1984 and has served in a variety of roles supporting and leading DuPont businesses. His work in the Agriculture segment began over 35 years ago, as a sales representative and product manager, and he subsequently served in a variety of roles supporting DuPont’s seed and crop protection businesses around the world. Collins has a bachelor’s degree of science in Chemical Engineering from Christian Brothers College and an MBA from the University of Delaware.

Wade Miquelon, Chief Executive Officer, JOANN

Wade Miquelon was named President & CEO of JOANN in February 2019, having joined the company as Executive Vice President & CFO in 2016. Miquelon has helped drive a strategic growth plan including revitalized branding, refreshed merchandising, expanded digital capabilities, and customer-focused storefront innovation.

Prior to JOANN, Wade was Executive Vice President, CFO and President of International at The Walgreen Company. He was previously CFO and Executive Vice President of Tyson Foods, Inc., and prior to that spent 17 years at The Procter & Gamble Company, where his last two roles were as CFO of Western Europe based out of Geneva, and the CFO for AAI (ASEAN, Australasia and Switzerland), based out of Singapore. Miquelon has served on various for profit and not-for-profit boards, including Acadia Healthcare (Nashville, TN), Alliance Boots (Bern, Switzerland), the Lyric Opera (Chicago, Illinois), and the Shedd Aquarium (Chicago, Illinois).

Justin Cross, Student, University of Tennessee

Justin Cross is a Tennessee 4‑H alumnus with eight years of 4‑H involvement. He is a senior at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he is studying Finance and Agricultural Economics. In his state, Justin serves on the Tennessee 4‑H Foundation Board of Directors.

Justin aims to combine his love for business with his passion for agriculture. As a 4‑H’er, Justin was heavily involved in Agriculture and Citizenship Programs and is passionate about public service.

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 3,000 local Extension offices. Globally, 4‑H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries.

Learn more about 4‑H at HTTPS://4‑H.ORG, find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/4‑H and on Twitter at HTTPS://TWITTER.COM/4H.

Andrew Bosworth, Prominent 4‑H Alum and Facebook Executive, Kicks Off Giving Tuesday with a Personal Gift to Expand Access and Engagement of 4‑H STEM Programming

Chevy Chase, MD (November 25, 2019) – National 4‑H Council and notable 4‑H alum, Andrew ‘Boz’ Bosworth, announce a one-million-dollar donation to support 4‑H in bringing access to hands-on science, technology, and math (STEM) learning opportunities to youth across the country. Boz, who serves as vice president of augmented and virtual reality at Facebook, credits 4‑H with driving his passion for science and technology when he was young. Now he and his wife April, also a 4‑H alum, are paying it forward and inviting the public to help him inspire a whole new generation of STEM enthusiasts.

For as long as he can remember, Boz has had a passion for science and technology. As a member of the El Sereno 4‑H club in California, he not only raised sheep and pigs but also learned to code when he was 10. He later co-founded the California 4‑H Technology Corps and helped start several other technology teams in other states.

“Most people don’t associate 4‑H with STEM learning, but it shaped my future career in technology,” said Boz. “Project work with plants and animals immersed me in biology and forced me to use critical thinking skills, but that only scratches the surface. As I look back at my personal 4‑H experience, whether I was coding or speaking in public, I was doing things I loved while building the social and leadership skills that still serve me in my professional career today.”

During this season of giving, Boz will match all gifts totaling up to one million dollars to give more youth the same life changing opportunities that he experienced.

“In 4‑H, we provide young people opportunities to develop skills and get hands-on experiences in everything from coding, to robotics, and agricultural science, bringing them a whole new perspective on possibilities for their futures,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “We are grateful for leaders like Boz who know the power of 4‑H and provide opportunities for young people today to follow in their footsteps.”

To learn more about Boz’s story and ways you can support 4‑H, visit www.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 www.4‑H.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4‑h and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/4h.

Four-part series features stories of youth creating positive change in communities


NEW YORK – November 20, 2019 – Today, NBC News Learn launched “4-H Inspires Kids to Do,” an original video series featuring youth making a difference across the United States. These young adults lead programs, supported by 4-H, which tackle the most challenging issues in their local communities. NBC News Learn, the education division of NBC News, produced the series in collaboration with 4-H, the nation’s largest positive youth development organization serving nearly six million youth each year.

The four-part series highlights young adults from rural and suburban areas and their efforts around equity and inclusion, food insecurity, minority engagement in STEM, and drug abuse.

“We are excited to amplify the important message of social responsibility practiced by 4-H,” said Soraya Gage, General Manager of NBC News Learn. “Our collaborative storytelling with 4-H is designed not only to share their impactful projects, but educate and inspire other students about the importance of community service.”

“In 4-H we believe in the power of young people and empower them each day with opportunities that put them in the driver seat to learn and lead,” said Artis Stevens, Chief Marketing Officer, National 4-H Council. “These stories represent the millions of young people who, with the support of caring adult mentors and 4-H programs delivered through Cooperative Extension, are finding ways to create change in communities across the country.”

The original series can be viewed online at NBCNewsLearn.com. Each video segment aligns to state and national education standards. Viewers can learn more about the series and join the discussion by following @NBCNewsLearn on Facebook and Twitter.

About NBC News Learn

NBC News Learn is the education brand of NBC News – distributing the journalism and storytelling of NBC News to students in the classroom, at home, and in the community. Our award-winning content, innovative live broadcasts, and extensive, exclusive news archives have made NBC News Learn an invaluable education tool for K-12 and Higher Ed students and teachers across the country.

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 WWW.4‑H.ORG, find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/4-H and on Twitter at HTTPS://TWITTER.COM/4H.

 

 

 

Former Associate Dean and Director of Ohio State University Extension to also lead Well Connected Communities Initiative in building a culture of health nationwide

Washington, D.C. (October 21, 2019) – During a meeting of the Well Connected Communities (WCC) National Advisory Committee today, Dr. Roger Rennekamp was introduced as the new Extension Health Director for the Cooperative Extension System. In his role supporting the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy, Rennekamp will explore strategies that scale communities through the WCC initiative into system-wide opportunities for policy and health equity change and enhance the leadership of Cooperative Extension in the field of health. He will start in this position on November 1.

In his new role, Rennekamp will develop, implement and drive the sustainability of the important work, as it moves to advance systems change in increasing health equity by responding to the diverse needs of children, youth and families, particularly among vulnerable populations. In doing so, Rennekamp will also increase understanding and visibility of the Cooperative Extension System as a national leader in health, as well as enhance leadership and professional development among Extension System personnel.

“At the center of our work is the belief that our nation’s public and land-grant universities can be important partners in community-based efforts to improve the health and well-being of all people,” said Rennekamp. “Improving health outcomes will involve working in new ways that extend beyond health education to changing the environments in which people live, learn, work and play.”

The nation’s land-grant university and Cooperative Extension System, in partnership with National 4-H Council, created the Well Connected Communities initiative in 2017 with the aim of empowering communities to come together to help their residents be healthier at every stage of life. With the support of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF), the nation’s largest philanthropy dedicated solely to health, Extension leaders and educators, volunteers and young people are currently cultivating wellness through this public/private partnership in 39 communities across 12 states.

As Extension Health Director, Rennekamp will be responsible for building on the achievements of the WCC’s inaugural leader, University of Delaware Extension Director Dr. Michelle Rodgers, who played a critical role in the initial development of the initiative. Rodgers was recently honored by ECOP leaders for her contributions in shepherding WCC through its start-up phase. In addition, Rodgers will continue to support WCC’s growth and impact as the new chair of an ECOP innovation committee.

“Cooperative Extension is very grateful for the efforts of National 4-H Council and our Extension Health Educator colleagues in working with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to secure funding for this position,” said ECOP Chairman Mark Latimore, Extension Administrator, Fort Valley State University. “We look forward to the contributions that Dr. Rennekamp can add to these efforts in continuing to leverage federal, state and local investments in Cooperative Extension.”

Rennekamp’s first university position was as a county Extension agent in Kentucky, after which he became a specialist in program and staff development at the University of Kentucky. Prior to his most recent leadership role as Associate Dean and Director of Ohio State University Extension, Rennekamp served as the Associate Dean for Outreach and Engagement at Oregon State’s College of Public Health and Human Sciences.

In his position at Ohio State University Extension, Rennekamp played a key role in heightening awareness of Extension’s mission, including creating new partnerships. He was also responsible for establishing the Extension Endowment Initiative, which resulted in record-breaking philanthropic support for OSU Extension.

About Cooperative Extension

Cooperative Extension (Extension) translates science with innovative educational programs and information applications; engages with the public by providing reliable information leading to positive action; and transforms individuals’ lives, families, communities and economies in both rural and urban locations. Extension operates through the land-grant university system in the USA and is supported by federal (mainly USDA-NIFA), state and local governments. Extension is coordinated by the Extension Committee on Organization and Policy (ECOP), the representative governing board of the 76 state, territory, land-grant university Extension programs. ECOP works in alliance with the Association of Public and Land-grant University’s Board of Agriculture Assembly, Board on Human Sciences, and several regional and national non-government organizations with common vision and mission. See https://landgrantimpacts.org/ and http://bit.ly/AboutCoopExt for more information or follow us on Twitter @Ext100Years

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 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 www.4-h.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4-H and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/4H

 

 

 

Kids and teens across the country get hands-on with coding and computer science through the largest national youth-led STEM challenge


Chevy Chase, MD (October 1, 2019) –During the month of October, over 250,000 youth will become game changers, learning how to use computer science skills to make a difference in their communities, through the 12th annual 4-H National Youth Science Day (4-H NYSD). This initiative aims to inspire kids to take an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topics through hands-on learning experiences – with this year’s focus on computer science and coding. This year’s challenge, Game Changers, designed by Google and West Virginia University Extension Service, aims to teach kids how to use computer science (CS) to create games and engage with topics they care passionately about.

There are currently over half a million open computing jobs, and new ones are being created at four times the rate of other opportunities. These jobs pay nearly twice as well, but in many communities across the U.S.—from rural areas to urban centers—kids don’t have access to the tools or resources they need to learn computer science skills in order to take advantage of these opportunities. And recent research shows that schools can’t meet demand alone: nine out of ten parents want their kids to learn computer science in schools, but only one quarter of schools offer dedicated courses.

“4-H’s passion is for young people everywhere to have access to skill-building and mentorship opportunities that will inspire and empower them to lead, to innovate, and to make our world better for all of us,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, President and CEO, National 4-H Council. “4-H NYSD brings hands-on computer science learning opportunities within reach for thousands of young people each year. The skills they learn along the way—problem solving, digital fluency, perseverance—will provide a strong foundation for success today and in the future.”

This year’s challenge, Game Changers, is perfect for first-time and beginner coders ranging in age from 8 to 14. Using games, physical activity, and puzzles to teach kids important CS concepts and problem-solving skills, the challenge is designed to be a perfect fit for the classroom or out-of-school learning. Each kit consists of one computer-based activity on Google’s CS First platform, using MIT’s Scratch programming language, and two unplugged activities that bring coding to life through games and interaction and draws career and real-world connections between computer science and 4-H’s non-STEM pillar areas—civic engagement, healthy living and agriculture.

“What’s unique about Game Changers is that the activities allow kids to engage with CS hands-on and the challenge can be completed offline if access to computers or internet is a barrier in their schools or communities,” said Jen Robertson-Honecker, Associate Professor and STEM Specialist for 4-H Youth Programming at West Virginia University. “Our approach removes or drastically reduces the technological barriers and makes it possible for anyone to teach Game Changers and help kids learn how to use CS to solve problems and inspire others to make change in their world.”

4-H NYSD kicks off on October 1st, with events taking place throughout the month of October in classrooms, clubs, homes, and afterschool spaces across the country. All youth are invited to participate in 4-H NYSD. For information about how to get involved, visit 4-h.org/nysd or Shopprod.four-h.himumsaiddad.com to purchase the Game Changers kit. Follow 4-H NYSD events around the country with #4HNYSD.

4-H NYSD 2019 was developed in collaboration with Google, with support from our national partners— Bayer, Donaldson, HughesNet, Lockheed Martin and the United States Air Force.

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 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 HTTPS://4‑H.ORG, find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/4‑H and on Twitter at HTTPS://TWITTER.COM/4H.

Chevy Chase, MD (September 26, 2019) In order to help accelerate the skills needed to secure the future of food and agriculture, National 4‑H Council and Bayer have announced a multi-million, multi-year commitment to expand the reach and impact of the Science Matters initiative.

Leveraging Bayer’s more than 150 years of scientific innovations and 4‑H’s century of hands-on learning, Science Matters will reach more than a million young people over the next five years with the tools and support they need to deepen their understanding of agri-science topics.

“Bayer is proud to partner with 4‑H to help invest in the future of agriculture and the bright young people who will make a difference in our industry and world,” said Lisa Safarian, North American President of the Crop Science Division of Bayer and National 4‑H Council Trustee. “Today’s youth have a tremendous opportunity to make a positive impact on our world through agriculture. I look forward to seeing what new ideas will come from the youth leaders inspired by the Science Matters program.”

Not only will today’s youth play a critical role in future ag innovation, they also will be tasked with applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address real-world challenges facing the agriculture industry. The Science Matters program is designed to help build a diverse talent pipeline to grow the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders in agriculture.

“Since 2017, Science Matters has gone beyond textbook learning to bring science to life for diverse youth across rural, suburban and urban communities,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, President and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “This collaboration with Bayer, a leader in the ag industry, gives even more young people the opportunity to experience STEM and agri-science, giving them the skills to innovate and create a sustainable future.”

Science Matters includes sponsorship of 4‑H National Youth Science Day (4‑H NYSD), the premier national rallying program for 4‑H STEM. Bayer’s support will enable the 2019 4‑H NYSD Game Changers curriculum to reach and impact diverse youth who otherwise would have limited access to STEM exploration opportunities. Game Changers uses physical activity and puzzles to teach kids important CS concepts and problem-solving skills, creating real-world connections between computer science and civic engagement, healthy living and agriculture.

In addition, the Science Matters initiative will award grants to seven land-grant universities to implement the 4‑H Ag Innovators Experience (AIE) which drives youth awareness of, and interest in, agriculture innovation and agriculture careers. In 2020, youth throughout the country will be exploring the importance of ecosystem services and their role in securing a sustainable food supply.

Bayer will also sponsor and provide scholarships for youth to attend the National Youth Summit on Agri-Science in Washington, D.C. Attendees will learn about modern agriculture, careers in agriculture and gain more than 30 hours of hands-on learning and problem-solving experience. And Bayer’s continued sponsorship of the 4‑H Youth in Action Award will add yet another dimension to Science Matters.

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 6 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. 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 www.4-h.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4-h and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/4h.

About Bayer

Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and nutrition. Its products and services are designed to benefit people by supporting efforts to overcome the major challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. At the same time, the Group aims to increase its earning power and create value through innovation and growth. Bayer is committed to the principles of sustainable development, and the Bayer brand stands for trust, reliability and quality throughout the world. In fiscal 2018, the Group employed around 117,000 people and had sales of 39.6 billion euros. Capital expenditures amounted to 2.6 billion euros, R&D expenses to 5.2 billion euros. For more information, go to www.bayer.com.

About Bayer Fund

Bayer Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the communities where Bayer customers and employees live and work by providing funding for food and nutrition, education and community development projects.

Two prominent corporate leaders join board to support 4‑H’s goal of empowering 10 million young people with opportunities to succeed in life and career

Chevy Chase, MD (September 24, 2019) – National 4‑H Council has announced the election of two new Trustees to its Board – Danielle Tiedt, Chief Marketing Officer, YouTube and Richard Maltsbarger, President and CEO, Pet Retail Brands.

By leveraging their extensive business experience, as well as their passion as 4‑H alums for inspiring youth leaders, the new Trustees will support Council’s mission to increase investment and expand the reach of our nation’s largest youth development organization. This will ensure that all young people have access to the life-changing programs delivered by the nation’s public universities and America’s Cooperative Extension System.

Tiedt and Maltsbarger bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience in the digital marketing and agriculture industries respectively and will play an integral role in supporting the implementation of Council’s strategic plan, which was created to support Cooperative Extension’s growth. The plan is based on research which found that upward economic mobility — the possibility that children will grow up to earn more than their parents — has been declining for nearly half a century. In 1970, 30-year-olds had a 90 percent chance of earning more than their parents did at the same age, adjusted for inflation. By 2014, those odds had dropped to around 50 percent.

“Investing in our youth is critical, which is why we are extremely grateful to these business leaders for joining our Board. Their combined expertise will help us to expand opportunities and inspire the next generation of young people to succeed in a competitive workforce,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “Their leadership skills, coupled with their passion for agriculture and diversity, will be a tremendous asset to Council’s Board and the 4‑H system at large.”

Danielle Tiedt: Chief Marketing Officer, YouTube - San Fransisco, CA

Danielle Tiedt: Chief Marketing Officer, YouTube

Danielle Tiedt joined Google in May 2012 as YouTube’s Chief Marketing Officer, and since then has worked to showcase and grow the platform. Under her leadership, YouTube Marketing has focused on building mainstream recognition for YouTube Creators and its original programming, developing YouTube Music, bringing the first ever YouTube Kids app to market and launching a premium subscription service. Prior to Google, Danielle worked in a variety of roles at Microsoft for over 15 years.

A 4‑H alum from Iowa, Tiedt is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and now lives in San Francisco with her partner, son and daughter. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys great music, art and the outdoors.

Richard Maltsbarger: President & CEO, Pet Retail Brands - Sunrise, FL

Richard Maltsbarger: President & CEO, Pet Retail Brands

Richard Maltsbarger joined Pet Retail Brands as President & CEO in November 2018.  In this role, he works with a team of ACEs (Animal Care Experts) in 1,180 stores across Canada and the Eastern United States, serving over 30 million pet lovers every year. In addition, Maltsbarger helps to manage his family’s farming operation.

Prior to joining Pet Retail Brands, Maltsbarger spent 14 years in leadership roles with Lowe’s Home Improvement, before working in analytics and marketing with Monsanto and credit risk scoring with Farmland Industries, amongst others.  Maltsbarger earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Missouri-Columbia and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.

Maltsbarger grew up in Missouri and was an active member of the Van Natta 4‑H chapter as a child.  He credits his ability to work on small engines, sew on a button and do basic woodworking and home repairs to his hands-on experiences in 4‑H.

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 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 https://4‑H.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4‑H and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/4H.

The partnership will provide young people with access to critical STEM education opportunities

Chevy Chase, MD (September 24, 2019) – National 4‑H Council today announced a $150,000 grant from the United States Air Force to expose more young people to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education.

Through this partnership, communities in Colorado, Missouri, and Utah will receive free curriculum to implement 4‑H National Youth Science Day (4‑H NYSD), which is 4‑H’s signature STEM program that engages over 250,000 youth each year. This year’s 4‑H NYSD challenge, Game Changers, focuses on teaching computer science skills through fun activities like games and creating animations about causes kids care passionately about.

The grant will also support the training of teen leaders who will facilitate the high-quality, fun, and engaging activities for 4‑H youth. The teen leader experience will focus on career exploration and understanding real-world applications of STEM in the military like the technology of flight and cybersecurity.

“We’re excited to partner with 4‑H to emphasize STEM, teamwork, collaboration and the roles each play in the success of the U.S. Air Force,” said Major Ross McKnight, Chief, Air Force Experiential Marketing. “It is also important that we inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders in STEM to consider service in the U.S. Air Force as they pursue their skills and interest.”

By 2022, projections show that there will be more than nine million STEM jobs in the U.S., which represent a tremendous opportunity for teens beginning to plan for college and career. Through this partnership, 4‑Hers will be able to interact with airmen and see how STEM applies to every part of the United States Air Force’s mission and work in serving our country.

“4‑H NYSD gives young people the opportunity to learn foundational STEM concepts through fun, hands-on activities,” says Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “To have a partner join us like the United States Air Force who can bring these concepts to life for our young people in a meaningful way is an incredible honor.”

To learn more about 4‑H National Youth Science Day, visit https://4‑H.org/NYSD.

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 https://4‑H.org, find us on Facebook at WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/4-H and on Twitter at HTTPS://TWITTER.COM/4H.

Chevy Chase, MD (June 24, 2019) National 4‑H Council is pleased to announce a collaborative partnership with Nationwide, one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the United States, to build a diverse pipeline of youth leaders in agriculture with a commitment of $1 million through 2022.

The 4‑H Leaders in the Field program will help inspire youth to be active leaders in their community. In its pilot year, youth from Ohio will work with members of the Ohio Farm Bureau to refine and execute community action plans that address a need or challenge in their hometown. From strategic planning meetings to implementation, youth will be partnering with local Farm Bureau leaders to implement positive community change.

To hone their leadership skills, the grant will support scholarships for youth to attend Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF), 4‑H’s premier citizenship and leadership experience for youth. Held in Washington, D.C. each summer, CWF empowers high school students to practice and recognize the importance of civic and social responsibility by strengthening their leadership and citizenship skills. It prepares them for life; inspiring them to be invested, informed and accountable for generating the change they want to see in the world – and to create their own success in the future.

Support from Nationwide will provide sponsorships for three delegations of youth from Ohio to travel to the nation’s capital to experience hands-on educational workshops, tour Washington D.C.’s living classrooms and meet with members of Congress to build the skills to be active citizens back home and in their future agriculture-industry endeavors.

“We live in a time where agriculture, and its future leaders, are becoming more important than ever in the assurance of a safe, efficient and abundant food supply for generations to come,” said Mark Berven, President and COO, Nationwide Property and Casualty and National 4‑H Council board member. “By investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders, Nationwide and 4‑H are building a diverse leadership pipeline, lifting up our communities, strengthening grassroots relationships and empowering the youth of today to seek out positive change.”

As part of the 4‑H Leaders in the Field program, select Diversity in Ag Teen Ambassadors will participate in events with Nationwide to help engage a dialogue about today’s agriculture and ways that youth can make a positive impact. An Ag Teen Ambassador will also be featured in an upcoming 4‑H Day in the Life video featuring a celebrity 4‑H alum and NFL player who grew up working on his family’s cattle ranch.

“When young people take responsibility to find answers to challenges, extraordinary change happens – in youth themselves and in their communities,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “Opportunities like Citizenship Washington Focus help inspire active citizenship and position youth with the skills they need to succeed in their life and career.”

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 6 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. 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 www.4-h.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4-h and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/4h.

About Nationwide

Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the United States. Nationwide is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. An industry leader in driving customer-focused innovation, Nationwide provides a full range of insurance and financial services products including auto, business, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Two prominent female leaders in the agriculture industry join as board continues to support 4‑H’s growth goal of empowering 10 million young people nationwide with opportunities to succeed in life and career

Chevy Chase, MD (April 2, 2019) – National 4‑H Council announced the election of two new Trustees to its Board, Lisa Safarian, Bayer and Kaye Reitzenstein, Nutrien Ag Solutions. These appointments bring the board to 52 percent female representation, a reflection of the gender dynamics of 4‑H youth served and a critical milestone for the board as it looks for members to provide diverse expertise and perspectives. Both Trustees bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience in the agriculture industry and will be integral in supporting Cooperative Extension’s goal of growing 4‑H to reach 10 million young people by 2025.

“We are extremely grateful to these business leaders for joining our Board, as their combined expertise will help us to expand opportunities for the next generation of young people who hope to build careers in the agriculture sector,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4‑H Council. “Their leadership skills and expertise, as well as their passion for agriculture and diversity, will be a huge asset to Council’s Board. We look forward to working with them to educate even more young people about the importance of agriculture, as well as increase investment and participation in Cooperative Extension’s 4‑H programs.”

Lisa Safarian
President, Crop Science North America
O’Fallon, IL

Lisa Safarian is responsible for the North American commercial performance of Crop Science, a division of Bayer. This consists of sales, marketing, market development and product supply for row crops, specialty crops and horticulture, including seeds, traits and crop protection in the United States and Canada. Safarian is also a champion for diversity, inclusion and education. She has been named Woman of the Year by the National Association of Professional Women and is involved in the G100 Next Generation Leadership Program. In addition, Safarian serves on the advisory board of Saint Louis University’s Boeing Institute of International Business.

Ms. Safarian holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Business Administration from Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. She lives in O’Fallon, Illinois, with her husband and three children, and is an active volunteer in her community and church.

Kaye Reitzenstein
Chief Financial Officer, Nutrien Ag Solutions
Loveland, CO

As Chief Financial Officer for Nutrien Ag Solutions, Kaye Reitzenstein provides leadership and financial guidance for the world’s largest retail distributor of crop inputs. Nutrien Ag Solutions, a subsidiary of Nutrien, has operations in the US, Canada, Australia and South America.
A proud 4‑H alumna, Kaye and her family are very involved in 4‑H and FFA activities, and Kaye has served as a 4‑H leader and a board member of the Colorado FFA Foundation. Kaye grew up on a farm and ranch, is still very involved with her family’s livestock, and currently resides on a small farm in Colorado with her husband, Mark, daughter, Kyndal and son, Austin.

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 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 www.4‑H.org, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/4‑H and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/4H.