(MILAN, Ill.) —University of Illinois Extension is pleased to announce the appointment of Elaine Kaple as the new Rock Island County 4-H Metro Youth Development Educator. She will concentrate programmatically in the metro area of the multi-county unit, bringing her experience and passion for education to this vital role.

Elaine brings a wealth of experience to the new position, with over eighteen years of diverse educational experience in both traditional and non-traditional settings. She has a proven track record of fostering youth development, program development, and effective outreach coordination. Her expertise includes hands-on instruction and volunteer management, making her a valuable addition to the 4-H team.

With a Master of Science in Education, Educational and Interdisciplinary Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, Ms. Kaple possesses a strong educational background that complements her practical experience. Her academic achievements reflect her commitment to holistic and mindfulness-based educational practices, which nurture learners as whole individuals.

Jenny Garner, Illinois Extension County Director said "I am thrilled to welcome Elaine Kaple to our 4-H youth development team. Her passion for education and her deep understanding of the transformative power of 4-H will undoubtedly enrich our programs and bring new opportunities for growth and engagement. Elaine's dedication and experience make her an invaluable addition to our Extension family."

Elaine will play a pivotal role in implementing youth education initiatives in the metro areas of our unit and will collaborate closely with her colleagues, including 4-H Educator Jennifer Peterson, 4-H Program Coordinators McCala Crawford, Tracy Fowler-Pestle, and Kristen VanDeVelde. Elaine's responsibilities will encompass program planning, monitoring, and evaluation tailored to meet local needs and align with statewide priorities. She will help guide program expansion and ensure the highest quality in our initiatives.

One of Elaine's key tasks will be forging partnerships with higher education institutions, businesses, and community organizations to support and expand our 4-H youth development programs. She will also take a hands-on approach in teaching and providing training and support to skilled volunteers who work with our youth.

In her previous role as Administrative Aide to the Vice President at Western Illinois University Quad Cities, Ms. Kaple focused on leadership, community outreach, university and department operations, fundraising, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Her connections within the Quad Cities community, along with her understanding of Extension's culture and operations, will be invaluable in raising awareness of 4-H in the region.

Elaine’s dedication to excellence and her passion for youth development will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of the 4-H Youth Development program at Illinois Extension. Together with the Extension community, 4-H, and other stakeholders, she aims to work towards "making the best better."

Elaine is eager to take on her new role and looks forward to utilizing her skills and experience to benefit Extension and the 4-H program. You can reach her at University of Illinois Extension’s Rock Island County office located at 321 W. 2nd Ave. Milan, IL 61264, by calling (309) 756-9978 or by email at kaple@illinois.edu