Growing Tomorrow's Leaders  

This year Kentucky State University 4-H team was able to attend the National 4-H Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The National 4-H Conference brought leaders from across the nation together for a week of inspiration, education, and collaboration. This year's conference was a resounding success, showcasing the incredible potential that 4-H programming has and its positive impact towards youth development.

This year, over 1,000 4-H members were able to come together to share their stories, ideas, and projects. This year's theme, "Cultivating Tomorrow's Leaders," set the stage for an event that left a lasting impact on all who attended. Kentucky State University 4-H was able to send some returning 4-H staff, (Brian Walker, Louis Milligan, Patrice Thompson, and Danielle Kinder) as well as some new 4-H staff, (Bridgett Potett, Jacob Hall, Stefanie Back, and Nolan Pettit) to the conference. 

This year's success story at the National 4-H Conference was built on several key pillars:

Empowering Youth Leadership: The conference celebrated the diverse talents and skills of 4-H members. Workshops and interactive sessions focused on leadership development, communication, and project management, empowering individuals to become active leaders in their communities. To showcase this leadership, we got to welcome the newest board member Louis Milligan. He was selected by National 4-H to be present on the board. Brian Walker member of the National STEM sub-group Technology & Gamming was also present to do reporting on the committee that he is chairing. Also displaying leadership was Danielle Kinder who was elected president elect for the Urban Programming Committee.

Innovative Project Showcase: Attendees had the opportunity to present their 4-H projects, which ranged from sustainable agriculture initiatives to STEM research and community service projects. This showcase highlighted the creativity, dedication, and commitment of 4-H members who are making a positive difference in their communities. The 4-H team plans to have some of their entries posted next time.

Networking and Collaboration: The conference provided a unique opportunity for leaders to connect and collaborate. Brian Walker and Patrice Thompson are in the works of creating the 1890s Network for Extension Professionals that will allow them to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and create partnerships that will continue to drive positive change in the future.

Guest Speakers and Inspiration: The conference featured renowned speakers who shared their stories of success, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, dedication, and teamwork. These insights left a lasting impression on the attendees, inspiring them to dream big and pursue their passions. Brian Walker and Patrice Thompson were able to take a picture with Louisville native Steven Smith, Senior Program Coordinator, of the NASA Johnson Space Center where they were able to talk to him and highlight some of the programs that they have initiated.

Commitment to Inclusivity: The 2023 National 4-H Conference also celebrated diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that every person had the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the 4-H movement.

Not only was this year's National 4-H Conference a success, but it was also an inspiring testament to the potential that leadership can make. It showed me that when individuals are given the tools, support, and a platform to make a difference, they can create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. This conference is a powerful reminder that 4-H is not just an organization; it's a catalyst for positive change and youth empowerment."