By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recently recognized several staff members and teams for their outstanding contributions to youth development through Iowa 4-H. The awards were presented during the Iowa 4-H YouthFest conference in Ames, where professionals from across the state gathered for learning, collaboration, and celebration.
Recognizing the importance of the staff's work, Mitchell Hoyer, Iowa 4-H Youth Development Program Leader, said, “Our Iowa 4-H staff continue to create meaningful opportunities that help young people develop confidence, leadership and life skills. This recognition highlights the creativity, dedication and impact our staff brings to communities across Iowa, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements.”
The Achievement in Service Award honored staff members with three years or less of service who have made significant contributions to Iowa 4-H. Recipients included Rachel Muir, Guthrie County Youth Coordinator, Paige Roberts, Wright County K-12 Outreach Coordinator, and Zoe Roos, Linn County Youth Coordinator. These individuals were recognized for expanding educational programs, strengthening community partnerships, increasing youth participation, and creating new opportunities in areas such as STEM, computer science, agriculture, and horticulture.
The Distinguished Service Award recognized staff members with four to ten years of service. Winners included Laela Ragsdale, Franklin County Youth Coordinator, and Amy Decker, Dubuque County K-12 Education Coordinator. Both were honored for their dedication to building strong relationships with youth and families, creating innovative programs, and expanding educational opportunities within their communities.
The Meritorious Service Award was presented to Michele Kelley, Fayette County Youth Coordinator, in recognition of more than 11 years of service. Kelley was honored for her long-term commitment to youth development, collaborative leadership, and efforts to strengthen Iowa 4-H through quality programming and partnerships.
Innovation was celebrated through the Visionary Award, which was presented to the Linn County Pioneers Adaptive 4-H Club Team, including Zoe Roos, JD Otterbein, Jessi Murphy, and Meagan Dielschneider. The team developed an inclusive club model designed to increase access and participation for youth of all abilities. Their work created a framework that can be replicated in other communities across Iowa.
The Outstanding Team Award went to Jacob Fjeld, Hardin County Youth Coordinator, and Laela Ragsdale, Franklin County Youth Coordinator, for their successful homeschool programming partnership. By combining resources and expertise across county lines, they expanded learning opportunities and improved access to high-quality educational experiences for homeschooling families.
These awards highlight the dedication, innovation, and leadership of Iowa 4-H professionals who continue to create meaningful experiences for young people. Through strong partnerships, creative programming, and a commitment to youth success, these individuals and teams are helping prepare the next generation of leaders while strengthening communities across Iowa.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-brzozowska
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle