Urbana, Ill. – 4-H youth across the state have been honored for their career achievements in the 4-H program.

The State 4-H Experience Award offers recognition for members who took part in activities and events in the categories of Participation, Community Service, Leadership, and Project Mastery. In order to qualify for the award, 4-H members must have expanded their 4-H experience beyond just the county level.

“4-H encourages and provides supports for youth to develop mastery in their chosen subject area, but we also encourage youth to use those skills in leadership roles,” says Lisa Diaz, University of Illinois Extension assistant dean and 4-H director. “These awards recognize youth who have pledged to use their head, heart, hands and health to support their communities and their world”

Youth choose learning pathways and are encouraged to find 4-H experiences to explore at the county, state, and national levels.

“4-H experiences take place at the community level, but there are opportunities to expand youth experiences,” says Diaz. “These youth have pushed themselves to new limits and expanded their worldview in order to qualify for these awards.” 

Diamond Level awards recognize youth who completed six or more experiences in one of the three dimensions, with at least four experiences beyond the county level. The Diamond Level awards are sponsored by Dwight Huffstutler, James and Sharon Walker, Wilbur and Marilyn Nelson, and Gary and Cecilia Balke. The Emerald Level award recognizes youth who completed eight or more experiences in one of the three dimensions, with at least four of those experiences beyond the county level and at least two at the state, national, or international level.  The Emerald Level awards are sponsored by Bill and Jane Wyffels, Carrol and Patsy Bolen, Sandra Lignell, and Doug and Edith Block.

Emerald Level Award Winners in Leadership include Gracie Prose, Ogle County

The Deb Stocker Award honors an exceptional member of the 4-H Youth Leadership Team. Gracie Prose of Ogle County was this year’s recipient.

To learn more about awards and scholarship opportunities in Illinois 4-H, please visit the Awards and Scholarship page.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. 4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools, and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people 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. 

Source:  Katie Duitsman, 4-H Leadership Youth Development Extension Specialist

Writer:  Carissa Nelson, Media Communications Manager, 4-H State Office, carissa7@illinois.edu