Katelyn Engel is a nine-year member of the Delong Livestock 4-H Club in Knox County. Engel was selected as one of nine State Project Mastery Winners after demonstrating her skills in her beef project. To be awarded a state award in project mastery, a 4-H member had to not only demonstrate personal growth in the project area but also as a leader who shared their knowledge with others. 

Engel has taken her role as a leader in 4-H very seriously by serving as a club officer, a member of the Knox County 4-H Federation Board, and as a member of the Illinois 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team. She says of her time on the 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team, “my involvement in the Illinois State Livestock Ambassador Team which has given me the opportunity to make new friends and teach consumers about the importance of the livestock industry.”

Participation in the beef project area has given Engel many skills. She shares, “My involvement in my beef project has given me many opportunities to network, make friends, and build life skills. Because of my project, I got involved in livestock judging which has strengthened my public speaking skills, built my leadership, and enabled me to compete on the local, county, state, and national levels.” Engel often shares these skills with younger members. 

Knox County 4-H is incredibly proud of the example that Engel has set for younger members. Engel says, “Receiving the state award is a tremendous honor. I am pleased to know that I have been able to impact so many others through my experience in 4-H. 4-H has given me so many opportunities that I could not dream of having otherwise. I have gotten the opportunity to represent 4-H on the county, state, and national levels.” 

Those interested in 4-H and the opportunities it presents should contact their local University of Illinois Extension Office or visit the website.