Sara Marten provides leadership to the 4-H youth development program in Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery Counties. Sara works with both local 4-H staff and volunteers to assess local priorities and organize a variety of opportunities for youth to thrive and grow, including community-organized 4-H clubs, educational workshops and after-school opportunities, and special events and contests. Sara focuses her programming on college and workforce preparation, teen leadership, healthy living, environmental education and appreciation, and STEM.

Sara has been a part of University of Illinois Extension since 2017, previously serving Franklin, Jackson, Perry, Randolph, and Williamson counties in southern Illinois prior to her current position. She also spent time as a 4-H Youth Development Educator with Purdue Extension, serving Decatur County in southeastern Indiana for two years.

Sara is a proud alumna of the University of Illinois, receiving both her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and Master of Science in Agricultural Education. She is a Real Colors® Certified Facilitator through the National Curriculum and Training Institute (NCTI).

Sara is also a proud 4-H alumna and was a 10-year member of the Raymond Buckeyes  4-H Club in Montgomery County.

Sara is a member of the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (NAE4-HYDP) and the Illinois Extension Professionals for Youth Education. She earned her Achievement in Service award from both organizations in 2020.