URBANA, Ill. — In a world where technological advances happen daily, digital access and literacy are crucial for future generations to close opportunity gaps. University of Illinois Extension works to connect communities with technology to improve the quality of living through digital education and training programs.
Illinois Extension awarded 4-H Youth Development Specialist Danielle Gapinkski the Technology Excellence award for her program Pixel Pioneers at its annual conference. This virtual graphic design 4-H SPIN club met the need for enhanced digital visual arts programming for youth and explored concepts including color theory, typography, design layout, and brand identity.
Initially set for youth in northern Illinois, the program quickly expanded statewide and was made available asynchronously online, resulting in 90 registrations. Participants received a workbook and used free design software for hands-on learning. Most of the participants, 90%, reported that they learned new graphic design concepts, with many expressing increased interest in the field and future 4-H opportunities. Pixel Pioneers will continue to expand with the addition of new resources and advanced sessions.
Illinois 4-H prepares youth to solve Illinois' problems by producing the leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, stewards, and builders we need. Learn how to get involved with 4-H in your community at 4h.extension.illinois.edu.
Photo caption: (Left to right) Kevin Carey, acting director of 4-H youth development/senior program lead, positive youth development; and Danielle Gapinski, 4-H youth development specialist
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.