Katie Beth Brewer

Katie Beth Brewer, a senior at Veritas Classical School, is the State Board President from Dodge County. She has been active in Georgia 4-H since the fourth grade. She served as a board member for the 2020-2021 Southeast District Senior Board. She has also been a featured vocalist for Clovers and Company for four years. Outside of 4-H, Katie Beth enjoys participating in community theatre and playing the piano and violin. 4-H has taught Katie Beth about the important aspects of leadership and how to work as a group to complete common goals. Katie Beth has met so many amazing people and created friendships that she knows will last a lifetime. She is excited to serve on this year’s State Board of Directors and give back to an organization that means the world to her.

Georgia Simmons

Georgia Simmons, State Board of Directors Vice President, is a high school senior from Banks County. Her interest in 4-H started in fifth grade at Rock Eagle summer camp. Since then, Georgia has participated in many activities such as DPA, Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging, and is a certified teen leader. Through 4-H, Georgia has found her passion in environmental conservation, specifically, marine conservation. She discovered her love for marine biology at Camp Jekyll and one day hopes to become a counselor there. Outside of 4-H, Georgia is interested in music, fashion, nature, and arts and crafts. She is also president of the Banks County 4-H County Council and is a member of Banks County’s World Cultures Club, Union Hill Missionary Baptist Church, and yearbook. Georgia is grateful for the memories, skills, and friendships that 4-H has provided her, and she cannot wait to serve our state as your Vice President this year.

Willie White

Willie White III, a State Board Representative, is a senior at Pierce County High School. He has been a part of 4-H since the fifth grade, and over the years, he has been able to engage in many community service and leadership activities. He served on the Southeast District Junior and Senior Boards while also serving as his county 4-H club’s president. Through 4-H, he was able to develop skills and qualities to help himself and others find their passions in life and engage in meaningful community service projects that could leave lasting impacts on their communities. Outside of 4-H, Willie serves as President of his FBLA Chapter, Beta Club, and Church Youth Ministry. He is also involved in Student Council, Cross Country, One Act, River Foundation Beaux, and Thrive Scholars. 4-H has been the foundation for his character and values, and as he goes through the upcoming year, he hopes that he can make a lasting contribution to the program.

Aniyah Hall

Aniyah Hall, a senior 4-H’er from Ben Hill County, is serving as a State Representative this year. She is a junior at Fitzgerald High school. Aniyah has been cheering and running track for the past six years, and she also served on her school’s student council. She began participating in 4-H in the fifth grade. In the past year, Aniyah served as a Southwest District Senior Board Member and on the SRTLC Planning Committee. She placed 1st at DPA in the Dairy project and gained leadership experience coordinating a service project on racial inequality. Aniyah’s favorite part about being in 4-H is the people she has met. She believes that they have truly shaped her into the person she is today, and she is excited to serve them this year.

Jay Lovett

Jay Lovett, a senior 4-H’er from Treutlen County is serving as a State Representative. Jay is currently a senior at Treutlen High School. He is very involved with extracurricular activities such as FBLA, FCCLA, playing basketball, and running cross county. Jay is a vocalist in Clovers and Company and even had the opportunity to sing at the 2021 Georgia 4-H Gala. He served as president of the 2020-2021 Southeast District Senior Board of Directors, and he cannot wait for many more life-changing experiences with Georgia 4-H. Jay has friends from the top of Northwest District all the way to the bottom of Southeast District, and he cannot wait to serve all of them as a state representative this year.

Davis Slate

Davis Slate, a senior at Athens Academy, serves as this year’s Northeast District Representative. He joined 4-H in the fifth grade and has been an active member ever since. Davis serves as the Clarke County 4-H President, a Ready4Life Ambassador, and as the 2020-2021 Northeast District Senior Board Vice President. Davis is a three-time Master 4-H’er, mastering in the Safety Category for Project Achievement, attending National Conference, and winning the State Wildlife Judging competition. Davis loves competing at project achievement and on judging teams, but his favorite activity is Senior 4-H Conference (a.k.a. “4-H Prom”). Through 4-H, Davis has been able to grow as a leader and learned to be an active citizen. Davis also found his passion for STEM in 4-H, which has inspired him to pursue an engineering degree in college. Outside of 4-H, Davis spends his time running cross country, playing soccer, and serving as a head delegate on his school’s Model UN team. Davis is very passionate and credits 4-H with sculpting him into the person that he is today. He is very excited to be giving back to 4-H this year.

Kaylee Collins

Kaylee Collins, Northwest District Representative, is a Senior at Griffin High School in Spalding County. She has been in 4-H since the fifth grade and has participated in project areas such as Human Development, Sports, and Health. She has mastered as a team member on her county’s Consumer Judging team and as an individual for the Chicken Barbecue Contest. She has served on the Northwest District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors where she further developed her passion for 4-H. Her favorite events are national 4-H events, One Georgia Urban/Rural Exchange Program, and State Council. In her free time, she enjoys reading new books, watching Netflix, or traveling with family and friends. 4-H has helped develop her skills, made her a better leader, and connected her with several new friends from across the state and country. She is very excited to serve on this year’s State Board of Directors.

Ashton Ates

Ashton Ates, Southeast District Representative, attends Coffee High School where he is in the 12th grade. He has been an active Coffee County 4-H’er since the fifth grade and started his 4-H journey at school club meetings. Ashton served as a board member on the 2020-2021 Southeast District Board of Directors. Ashton loves to attend summer camp, and he also loves to participate in DPA. He believes that 4-H has taught him how to be a leader, to stand up and speak for others, and how to practice proper etiquette. Ashton enjoys spending time with his 4-H friends and getting youth involved in this amazing organization. He is honored to serve Georgia 4-H this year on State Board.

Hinano Tomlinson

Hinano Tomlinson, Southwest District Representative, is a senior at Furlow Charter School. Hinano has been part of 4-H since the fifth grade, starting with her first District Project Achievement. She fell in love with the organization and has been actively involved since. In 4-H, Hinano has served on the Southwest District Senior Board, as the Sumter County 4-H Club President, a Ready4Life Ambassador, a Certified Teen Leader, and as a member of Clovers and Company. Music is her biggest passion. She hopes to become a big influencer in the music industry through her music and, ultimately, wants to pursue a career as a music producer with her own label. She believes 4-H has molded her into who she is today, and she is excited to carry these lessons into her career one day. Hinano is thrilled to serve Georgia 4-H this year.

Message from the 2021 Board of Directors

Dear Georgia 4-H,

We are so excited to begin another year in this great organization, though it will no doubt be different than previous years. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, our mission as the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors remains the same:  to share and help provide #opportunity4all through the diverse experiences 4-H offers to help youth develop social responsibility, empower them to live an authentic life, and grow as leaders who can make the best better, regardless of circumstances.  Whether planning events, leading community service activities, serving as ambassadors for our organization, or creating a safe and welcoming environment for all, we aim to lead by example for the 243,000 Georgia 4-H youth participants, thousands of adult volunteers, hundreds of 4-H professionals, and countless others who support 4-H.

The State Board of Directors is comprised of nine members: a President, Vice President, three State Representatives, and four District Representatives. We make decisions regarding state-wide issues, events, and ideas. We aspire to understand and consider the needs and desires of all 4-H’ers as we make decisions that impact the 4-H program to insure that our organization continues to thrive and benefit those it serves.

We would also like to formally welcome you to the Georgia 4-H website. This site will help you discover and learn more about the many programs that our great organization has to offer. Whether you are new to the club or a seasoned member, Georgia 4-H has something for all.  Find your passion and build upon it in 4-H!

Making the Best Better,

Jhaycee Barnes, Lily Thomas, Cooper Hardy, CJ Harris, Amare Woods, Parker Varnadoe, Salih El-Gayyar, Lilah Grace McClintock, and Etain Campbell

Meet the 2021 State 4-H Board of Directors

Jhaycee Barnes

Jhaycee Barnes, State Board of Directors President, is a high school junior from Spalding County. She has been an active 4-H’er since the fifth grade. Jhaycee is a four-time Master 4-H’er, having mastered in both team and individual Consumer Judging and in Project Achievement for the Computer Information Technology and International projects. She loves to learn new things and travel. She has served on Northwest District Junior and Senior Boards, where her love for 4-H was able to flourish while serving others. Jhaycee says that 4-H has shaped her into the person she is today, and she is very excited to serve Georgia 4-H this year!

Lily Thomas

Lily Thomas, State Board of Directors Vice President, is a junior at Putnam County High School. She began participating in 4-H during the fourth grade.  4-H has provided Lily many experiences in leadership, including serving as a member of the Northeast District Senior Board of Directors, President of the Putnam County Council, and as a 4-H Ambassador in the Healthy Living and Ready4Life Programs. She enjoys competing in Food Prep, Consumer Judging, and District Project Achievement.  Through 4-H, Lily has developed a passion for civic engagement by volunteering and raising awareness about such issues as domestic violence and local food insecurities. Lily is a three-year member of Clovers and Company, where she performs as a vocalist. Outside of 4-H, Lily plays the electric guitar in the jazz band, runs cross country, plays tennis, and serves as class president. Lily is a third generation 4-H’er, and considers serving on the state board a great honor.

Cooper Hardy

Cooper Hardy, a junior at Westfield High School, is a State Board Representative from Pulaski County.  He is the son of Brad and Danetta Hardy and has been a member of Georgia 4-H since the fifth grade. He is the featured male dancer in the 4-H performing arts group Clovers & Company.  He has also served as President on the Southwest District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors and is currently serving on the Pulaski County Sigma Lambda Chi Board as Vice President. Cooper says that 4-H has given him and many other youth opportunities to truly become themselves and develop their own interests. Cooper is excited to be serving on state board.

CJ Harris

Croswell (CJ) Harris is a high school senior from Newton County and a State Board Representative. He was introduced to 4-H in the fourth grade. When he reached the seventh grade, CJ saw the wide range of opportunities that 4-H presented and decided to merge it with his own interests, starting a three dimensional (3-D) printing project with the e-NABLE organization to create prosthetics for those who need them. With his project, CJ has mastered in Project Achievement in Mechanics and Engineering and enthusiastically teaches and promotes STEM through 4-H. He served on the 2018-19 Northwest Senior Board of Directors and is ecstatic about serving this organization for years to come.

Amare Woods

Amare Woods is a State Board Representative and  junior at Tift County High School. He has been an active member of Tift County 4-H since the fifth grade and served as the 2017-2018 Southwest District Junior Board Vice President and as a 2019-2020 Senior District Board member. Amare is a two-time Master 4-H’er in Dairy Quiz Bowl and Egg Preparation Demonstration contests.  He has even had the opportunity to compete at the national level.  Outside of 4-H, Amare enjoys gardening, cooking, and writing. He is excited and thankful for the opportunity to serve Georgia 4-H this year and help make the best better.

Parker Varnadoe

Parker Varnadoe, the Northeast District Representative, is a high school senior from Madison County. Parker is a two-time Master 4-H’er in Performing Arts – General and 4-H Food Challenge. He has been a member of Georgia 4-H Clovers and Company for seven years and served on the Northeast District Senior Board of Directors. Parker is a National 4-H Shooting Sports Ambassador and serves as Captain of his county’s 4-H Shotgun team. He has competed in numerous other 4-H events including National 4-H Filmfest, Leadership in Action, Dean’s Awards, Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging, and Food Product Development. He loves serving as a teen leader at 4-H events, especially Cloverleaf camp. Outside of 4-H, he is active in church, school and community theatre, Thespian Society, and Interact Club. Parker is grateful for the many opportunities Georgia 4-H has provided him and is honored to serve Georgia 4-H this year.

Salih El-Gayyar

Salih El-Gayyar is a homeschooled high school junior from Fayette County. He has the honor of serving as Northwest District Representative on this year’s Board of Directors. He got his start in 4-H as a third-grader at his local homeschool club, and since then, his love for 4-H has flourished. He competed in Project Achievement and went to State Congress in the Robotics category, competed and mastered in Wildlife Judging, and served on the 2019-2020 Northwest District Senior Board. Between these many experiences, 4-H has broadened his knowledge of so many things, improved his public speaking abilities, made him a better leader, and taught him skills that will impact his future.  He is so thankful and honored to be able to serve an organization that has given him so much.

Lilah Grace McClintock

Lilah Grace McClintock, the Southeast District Representative, is in her junior year at Bacon County High School. She began her journey with 4-H in the fourth grade at summer camp, where she fell in love with the organization. Her favorite 4-H events are State Council and Summer Camp.  Through 4-H, Lilah has served as a leader in various capacities over the years. She was elected to the Southeast District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors, serves as a Teen Leader at different Cloverleaf 4-H events, and leads club meetings in her county 4-H program. She competes in Project Achievement in the Human Development category. Lilah is very passionate about 4-H and shares, “I would not be the person I am today without 4-H, and I am grateful to be part of such an organization.”

Etain Campbell

Etain Campbell, Southwest District Representative from Pulaski County, is a junior at Hawkinsville High School. Etain has been active in 4-H since the third grade, from attending camps to state events. She served as a member of both the Southwest District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors and is currently the Pulaski County 4-H Sigma Lambda Chi Reporter. Etain cultivates her musical talent by participating in Clovers & Company (the Georgia 4-H performing arts group) and her high school’s marching band. She is currently leading her own service project, Musical Knots, to help kids in her community afford musical instruments. Etain shares, “I cannot imagine a better tool to have shaped my life than 4-H.”

Message from the 2020 Board of Directors

Dear Georgia 4-H,

We are truly excited to begin another year in this organization that we love so much. Our mission as the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors is to share with others the diverse opportunities 4-H offers to help youth develop social responsibility, empower them to live an authentic life, and grow leaders who can make the best better, regardless of circumstances.  Whether planning events, leading community service activities, serving as ambassadors for our organization, or creating a safe and welcoming environment for all, we aim to lead by example for the 177,000 Georgia 4-H youth members, thousands of adult volunteers, hundreds of 4-H professionals, and countless others who support 4-H.

The State Board of Directors is comprised of nine members: a President, Vice President, three State Representatives, and four District Representatives. We make decisions regarding state-wide issues, events, and ideas. We aspire to understand and consider the needs and desires of all 4-H’ers as we make decisions that impact the 4-H program to insure that our organization continues to thrive and benefit those it serves.

We would also like to formally welcome you to the Georgia 4-H website. This site will help you discover and learn more about the many programs that our great organization has to offer. Whether you are new to the club or a seasoned member, Georgia 4-H has something for all.  Find your passion and build upon it in 4-H!

Making the Best Better,

Arham Shah, Deontavious Kitchens, Kimberly Rios, Madison Clemente, Taylor Wells, Sarah Isaac, Hope Stewart, Ty Poole, and Douglas Hopkins

Meet the 2020 State 4-H Board of Directors

Arham Shah

Arham Shah, a high school Senior from Emanuel County, serves as the President of the State Board of Directors. Being active in 4-H since 5th grade, he has competed in District Project Achievement every year. He earned 1^st place in the Performing Arts Instrumental project at State 4-H Congress, becoming a Master 4-H’er. He has performed with Clovers and Company and recently performed at the 4-H Legacy Awards in with Jennifer Nettles in Washington D.C. Outside of 4-H, Arham loves to golf and play his saxophone. He served as the Southeast District Senior Board President and strongly believes 4-H has shaped him into the young man he is today.

Deontavious Kitchens

Deontavious Kitchens, State Board of Directors Vice President, is the son of Katrina Johnson and Jagan Thomas. He attends Stewart County High School, where he is in the 11^th grade. His 4-H participation includes attending events on county, district, state, and national levels. He is on his county’s Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging team. He won 1st place at District Project Achievement in the General Recreation project and advanced to compete at State 4-H Congress in 2018. He is also an active teen leader in his county. Outside of 4-H, he serves as a Cadet Captain in JROTC and is the commander of his high school’s male color guard; he has also played baseball for six years. Deontavious says that 4-H is his life and that he could not imagine his life without it.

Kimberly Rios

Kimberly Rios, a State Representative from Emanuel County, is a senior at Swainsboro High School. She got her start in 4-H in the 5th grade and still lives by its motto through making her best better. Kimberly has served as a leader in 4-H in several capacities over the years. She was elected to the Southeast District Senior Board of Directors and has been a teen leader at multiple events. She competes in District Project Achievement and is passionate about community service. Kimberly’s recent 4-H Leadership in Action project, “Bracelets for Smiles,” is dedicated to making and donating hand-made bracelets to pediatric patients in Atlanta. She is very excited to be giving back to 4-H this year.

Madison Clemente

Madison Clemente, a senior from South Paulding High School in Paulding County currently serves as one of Georgia 4-H’s State Representatives. Madison started 4-H in the 5^th grade and has competed in project achievement every year in the area of public speaking. She has served as a board member on both Northwest District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors and is currently the Paulding County Senior 4-H Club President. Madison says that 4-H has truly changed her life and equipped her with experiences and skills that will benefit her for a lifetime. She is so thankful for this opportunity to serve Georgia 4-H this year.

Taylor Wells

Taylor Wells is serving as a State Representative from Clinch County. She is in her junior year at Clinch County High School. Taylor Has been active in 4-H since 5th grade, beginning her journey with summer camp at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. She served as President of the Southwest District Senior Board in 2018. Taylor competes in District Project Achievement and enjoys participating in friendly competition with fellow 4-Hers through summer 4-H camp activities and the Iron Clover games at State 4-H Council. She is ecstatic to Make the Best Better along with her fellow board members this year.

Sarah Isaac

Sarah Isaac is the Northeast District Representative from Stephens County. Sarah is a Junior in high school and has been a 4-H’er since 5^th grade. She started her 4-H career by competing in District Project Achievement and has earned 2^nd place at State 4-H Congress twice. Sarah served on the Northeast District Senior Board of Directors and attends as many events and competitions as possible. She enjoys Fall 4-H Forum, State 4-H Council, and Consumer Judging. Outside of 4-H, she loves to play soccer and play in the marching band. Sarah is thankful to 4-H for giving her this opportunity to serve and help take 4-H to a new level.

Hope Stewart

Hope Stewart, a junior at Griffin High School, is a Spalding County 4-H’er and the Northwest District Representative. 4-H has held a place in her heart since the 5th grade. Project Achievement is her favorite 4-H activity, and she has most recently competed in the performing arts drama category. While serving on the 4-H Northwest District Junior and Senior Boards, she gained vital skills that she hopes to use as she pursues a career in theatre production after high school. One of her goals is to one day be a Georgia 4-H Camp Counselor. She is passionate about 4-H and believes that her support system through 4-H has been among the most valuable things she has acquired in her time in 4-H.

Ty Poole

Ty Poole, the Southeast District Representative of the State Board of Directors, is a senior from Washington County, where he is an Honors Student at Washington County High School. He joined 4-H in 2011 and has been an active member since then. Ty has competed in District Project Achievement since 7th grade and has also competed in Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging. He was able to foster his love for singing as a member of Clovers and Company and has served as a board member on the Southeast District Senior Board. Ty plans to major in Marine Biology and minor in Communications and believes 4-H has enabled him to live his life to the fullest.

Douglas Hopkins

Douglas Hopkins is the Southwest District Representative and is a senior at Thomas County Central High School this year. Douglas enjoys all 4-H events, but State 4-H Congress is his favorite. He enjoys meeting all of the beautiful 4-H’ers in Georgia, and his most valued accomplishment is being elected to serve them all on the State Board of Directors this year. Douglas enjoys preaching at youth groups and helping people in need during his time away from 4-H. He feels that this year will be one of the best yet, as he helps to lead Georgia 4-H with his fellow board members.

Message from the 2019 Board of Directors

Dear Georgia 4-H,

We are absolutely ecstatic to begin another year in this organization that we love so much. Our mission as the Georgia 4-H state board of directors is to build meaningful relationships in order to advocate for leadership development, service, inclusivity, and education for the almost 170,000 Georgia 4-H Youth Members. Whether planning events, leading community service activities, or creating a safe and welcoming environment for all, we aim to lead by example in order to advance the community of Georgia 4-H.

The State Board of Directors is comprised of nine members: a President, Vice President, three State Representatives, and four District Representatives. We make decisions regarding state-wide issues, events, and ideas. As we make decisions, we strive to take the needs and desires of all 4-H’ers into account so we can make our program thrive on all fronts.

We would also like to formally welcome you to the Georgia 4-H website. This site serves as an excellent resource for all programs that our great organization has to offer. Whether you are a new or seasoned member, Georgia 4-H has something for all.  Find your passion and build upon it in 4-H!

Making the Best Better,

John Henry Walker, Andy Martin, George Moore, Jordan Daniels, Tandria Burke, Dawson Babischkin, Andie Ellett, Olivia Phillips, Caleb Moseley

Meet the 2019 State 4-H Board of Directors

John Henry Walker serves as the State 4-H Board of Directors President from Cook County. He is a senior in high school and has been homeschooled his entire life. His first 4-H experience was Junior Camp in 7th grade, which sparked his interest in the organization. This interest quickly grew into a passion. Some activities he’s participated in include teen leading for his county, competing in poultry and forestry judging, leading a local health and fitness initiative, Southwest district Senior Board President, and serving on the State 4-H Communications and Technology team.  John Henry placed 1st with his team at the Southwest district forestry competition and 1st in public speaking at the Georgia National Fair, wrote and co-directed the NOBULL challenge video which won the 4-H tech team a national 1st place prize, and was one of only 15 4-H’ers selected to represent 4-H by welcoming the United State’s Secretary of Agriculture to the Georgia National Fair One of his favorite things about 4-H is attending all the local and state events. He enjoys competing in the communications project, which he has earned two 2nd place titles. John Henry plans on pursuing a career in video production and enjoys writing script and editing videos in his past time.  He feels blessed to have been given all the opportunities he’s had through 4-H, and is especially thankful for all the amazing friends and mentors he’s met along the way who have been valuable role models. He plans on continuing to stay involved with 4-H long after high school so that he can give back to the organization that has given him so much. He is beyond honored to have the opportunity to serve on the State Board of Directors and is excited to use his position to help benefit and serve others.

Andy Martin is your State Vice President from Emanuel County in the Southeast District. Andy is a junior at Swainsboro High School and has been active in 4-H ever since he joined in the fifth grade. He is in the Communications Project at District Project Achievement, competes in Poultry, Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging on the district and state level, attends multiple state events, and is active in his community as he has started campaigns to increase awareness for domestic violence and the impact of adults in their children’s lives. Andy is the current Emanuel County Secretary and served as the 2017-2018 Southeast District Senior Board President. Outside of 4-H, he is a dual-enrollment student at East Georgia State College, performs in his school’s concert and marching band, is a starter for his school’s varsity soccer team, and stays busy with other organizations like the Beta Club. Throughout Andy’s 4-H career, his path has been influenced with the excellent help of 4-H mentors like Jeffrey Burke that showed him the true meaning of 4-H. Andy says, “4-H isn’t just a pastime or a hobby, it is a lifestyle. Every event 4-H’ers attend is an opportunity for them to make lifetime relationships and makes memories that they will never forget. 4-H is a blessing, and I am honored to represent this amazing organization. Being on State Board has already taught me so much, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for me. Thank you Georgia 4-H for allowing me to be better than the best I potentially could.”

George Moore, a high school junior from Stephens County, is a State Representative on your 2018-2019 State Board of Directors. He joined 4-H in the 5th grade and has been an active 4-H’er ever since. George has competed in District Project Achievement every year in many different project areas but most recently the Plant and Soil Science Project. He has competed in Consumer Judging for the past four years helping lead his team to the state level. George is very active Stephens County 4-H as he takes part in anything, and everything offered. George previously served as the Northeast District Senior Board Vice-President as well as a member of the Northeast District Junior Board. George believes he has learned the importance of goal setting and helping others through Georgia 4-H. He draws inspiration from leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. who said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is ‘What are you doing for others?’” George is inspired by this and believes 4-H has kindled his passion for helping others by giving him many opportunities to do this.  Outside of 4-H he enjoys golfing and running cross country for his high school along with participating in many of the clubs offered. George strongly believes 4-H has crafted him into the person he is today through the many opportunities and lifelong friendships. He says, “The plethora of knowledge I have gained through Georgia 4-H will continue to be integral to success on all levels of life.” George is thankful for being given a chance to serve this year and looks forward to helping 4-H’ers across the state.

Jordan Daniels is State Representative from Tift County. He is in the 11th grade at Tift County High School. Jordan has been an active 4-H’er since he gave his first speech on recycling in at a club meeting in the 5th grade. He has served the Southwest District as a Junior Board Member and Senior Board President. He has competed at District Project Achievement since the sixth grade. Jordan also competes in the Cotton Bowl and Consumer Judging Contest; for which he has gone to the State Contest twice. His current project area is Environmental Science, and he has received the Master 4-H Status in Poultry Judging.  Jordan says that “4-H has put me ahead of the game for my future. I have had the opportunity to learn many different things like how to become a better leader, communicate with others, and work hard! I am so humbled to be able to serve Georgia 4-H!”

Tandria Burke is serving as one of this year’s Georgia 4-H State Representatives. She resides in Dougherty County and is currently in the eleventh grade while she is also dual enrolling at Albany Technical College. She started her 4-H career in the 6th grade by attending cloverleaf DPA. Her project area began with the Dog Care and Training category, but eventually drafted into the Arts project and currently to the Companion and Specialty Animals project. She has also had the pleasure of attending State Congress where she placed 3rd in her project area. Tandria has also served on the 2017-2018 Southwest District Board of Directors. She loves to participate in any event or contest that she possibly can. Such include Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging, DPA, State Council, Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference, and Fall Forum. She has also competed in Leadership in Action, where she created a pet therapy day for children living with psychological, social, and physical disabilities. Tandria believes that 4-H is undoubtedly the best club ever. “4-H and the people within are truly the single best things that have happened in my life, and I am so grateful that it has shaped me into who I am today. Thank you, Georgia 4-H, for giving me opportunity after opportunity to improve myself and everything around me. I am beyond ecstatic to be serving this upcoming year to “make the best better.”

Dawson Babischkin is the Northwest District Representative for this year’s Ga 4-H State Board of Directors. Dawson is a Henry County 4-H’er and is in the 11th Grade.  She joined 4-H in the 5th grade, and 4-H has been a huge aspect of her life ever since. On a local level, Dawson has been involved in many activities, such as Cotton Boll Consumer as well as Forestry judging state competition teams. Dawson was also privileged to serve as a board member on the Northwest District’s Junior as well as Senior Board. Competing in District Project achievement since 5th grade has also been a large part of Dawson’s 4-H carrier. As a Senior 4-H’er, she has attended State 4-H Congress in the Performing arts Vocal as well as the Performing Arts: Drama category in which she placed 2nd. Dawson is incredibly thankful for not only the leadership skills she has obtained through GA 4-H but for helping her to discover and explore her passion for performing arts. She is currently in her second year as a vocalist for the GA 4-H Performing Arts group Clovers and Company. “4-H has given me a family where I feel safe to be myself and explore my passions. I’m so honored to represent the GA 4-H program on the state level. I hope to become the best version of myself while giving back to the program that has given so much to me.”

Andie Ellett serves as the Northeast District State Board Representative from Jackson County. Andie is a senior in high school and started 4-H in the 4th grade, through her county’s Love of Llamas Club. From there, her passion for 4-H grew as she became involved in her local County Council, Cotton Bowl and Consumer Judging, the Robotics Club, summer camps, and many district and state level 4-H events. Andie served as a member of the 2014-2015 Northeast Junior Board of Directors and has participated in District Project Achievement since starting her 4-H career. Most recently, she competed at State Congress and was awarded the 3rd place in Performing Arts Drama. After high school, Andie plans to pursue an acting career and would like to build a platform from which she can bring awareness to the many issues she is passionate about, such as environmental awareness and providing necessary support for the U.S. foster and adoption care systems. Andie is honored to be serving on the 2018-2019 4-H State Board of Directors and states, “4-H has done more for me than I could ever put into words. It is a family.  I am truly excited to serve this year.”

Olivia Phillips, a senior from Ben Hill County, is your 2018-2019 Southwest District Representative. Olivia’s 4-H career began when she competed in Cloverleaf Project Achievement as a 5th grader in the Ag Awareness project. Since then, Olivia has become hooked on 4-H. Throughout her years in 4-H, she has been blessed with the opportunity to serve on Southwest District Junior and Senior Boards, hold several county offices, participate on the BB, Shotgun, and 22 Rifle teams, become a certified teen leader and attend several district and state 4-H events. She recently achieved Master 4-H Status in the Target Sports project this past summer. Her favorite 4-H event is summer camp and she aspires to become a camp counselor so that I can encourage kids to stay involved in 4-H. Outside of 4-H, Olivia is on the varsity football cheer team, plays soccer, participates in FCA, FBLA, and Beta Club, serve as Chairman on Fitzgerald’s Community Bank Junior Board of Directors, and actively attend First Baptist Church of Fitzgerald. After she graduates from high school, Olivia hopes to attend the University of Georgia and major in Dietetics to become a registered nutritionist. “ For me, 4-H is more than just a club. It is my home away from home and has taught me how to become the best that I can be. Thank you Georgia 4-H for allowing me the chance to give back to the organization that has shaped me into the person I am today.”

Caleb Moseley, a senior from Bleckley County, is your Southeast District Representative to the State 4-H Board of Directors. Caleb officially started his 4-H journey in the 4th grade.  Since then I have achieved Master 4-H status four times. His masters are in the Egg Preparation Demonstration project, the Turkey Barbecue project, Wildlife at DPA, and most recently, in Leadership in Action with his project Mighty Mouth. Might Mouth is a program that teaches dental hygiene to over 1,400-second-graders in four school districts.  Caleb also likes to take part in Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging, Food Challenge, and Horse Judging.  Caleb is a third-year member of Clovers and Company as a vocalist.  Caleb enjoys attending summer camp every year and is currently competing in the Food Safety and Preservation Project.  Previously, Caleb served as a board member on the Southeast District Junior and Senior Boards. After high school, Caleb plans to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, following my father’s footsteps and becoming a Reconnaissance Marine and then attending Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College to pursue a career as a Greens Keeper.   “I feel that Georgia 4-H has given me the ability to express myself, a place to belong, lifelong friends, and moments which will stay with me forever.  4-H is the reason I am who I am, and I cannot imagine what life would be like without 4-H.  I want to thank all the 4-Hers who allowed and helped me to serve and grow by electing me to this honor.  Thank you to everyone who has ever helped me on the way to where I am today and, truly, I am proud to say that I am Georgia 4-H!”

Message from the 2018 Board of Directors

Dear Georgia 4-H,

We are absolutely ecstatic to begin another year in this organization that we love so much. Our mission for the year is to represent Georgia 4-H to the best of our ability as ambassadors and to build a strong population of 4-H’ers through determination, humility, and positivity. Whether planning events, leading community service activities, or creating a safe and welcoming environment for all, we aim to lead by example in order to advance the community of Georgia 4-H.

The State Board of Directors is comprised of nine members: a President, Vice President, three State Representatives, and four District Representatives. We make decisions regarding state-wide issues, events, and ideas. As we make decisions, we strive to take the needs and desires of all 4-H’ers into account so we can make our program thrive on all fronts.

We would also like to formally welcome you to the Georgia 4-H website. This site serves as an excellent resource for all programs that our great organization has to offer. Whether you are a new or seasoned member, Georgia 4-H has something for all. Find your passion and build upon it in 4-H!

Making the Best Better,

Mason McClintock, Angel Austin, Bronson Champion, Ericka Lord, Evie Woodward, Zach Holick, Lindsey Kate Steedley, Donovan Nelson, and Cody Whitlock

Mason McClintock serves as the State 4-H Board of Directors President from Bacon County in the Southeast District. He is a junior at Bacon County High School but was homeschooled until his sophomore year when he began dual-enrollment at Coastal Pines Technical College. Mason attends Bethel Free Will Baptist Church, where he helps lead worship on Sundays. Mason says that the activity that has shaped him the most is Clovers & Company, with this being his fifth-year singing with the group. He loves to sing, song-write, record and produce music, as well as play the guitar, piano, and ukulele. He plans to pursue a career in music. He is a member of the Bacon County Poultry, Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging teams and currently serves as vice-president of Bacon County 4-H. He has served on the Southeast District Junior and Senior Boards. He’s competed in Leadership in Action and recently placed 3rd in the Dean’s Award for Communications and the Arts. His project area for Project Achievement is Performing Arts Vocal. He has not obtained Master 4-H status in his project; however, he tied for 1st place at State 4-H Congress in 2016. At his Southeast District Cloverleaf Project Achievement in 2013, one of Georgia 4-H’s past State Board Presidents made a tremendous, positive impact on Mason. He decided then that his goal in 4-H was to run and be elected to serve on State Board. Mason says that his favorite thing about 4-H is the diversity of all the programs it offers and that, regardless of our differences, varying interests, or backgrounds, we are all one big family.

Angel Austin serves as State 4-H Vice-President from Ben-Hill County in the Southwest District. She joined 4-H in the fifth grade and has been an active 4-H’er ever since. Angel has mastered in the Flower’s Shrub’s and Lawn’s project, attended the National Healthy Living Summit as well as the Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference. She serves on her county club’s board as vice-president, and served on the Southwest District Senior Board of Directors. Angel loves 4-H dearly and is very thankful for the great opportunities and lifelong friendships that the organization has provided her with. Her favorite is traveling around the nation to meet new people, teach fun lessons, and especially learn new line dances from other states. She is a Health Rocks and Healthy Living Ambassador, competes in Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging, as well as Poultry Judging. Angel is a senior at Fitzgerald High School. Outside of 4-H, she is a Move On When Ready student at Wiregrass Technical College, preforms in her schools show choir, plays the piccolo and flute her marching and concert bands, participates in Drama Club, Beta Club, Interact Club, attends Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, and is Vice-President of the Local Arts Council Junior Board of Directors. Angel hopes to continue her 4-H career after high school and wants to give back to the organization that has done so much for her.

Bronson Champion is a proud Georgia 4-H State Representative from Chattooga County. Bronson attends Trion High School as a junior. He started his 4-H career in the fifth grade as a camper and became increasingly involved in the opportunities that 4-H offers. He has enjoyed shooting sports, District Project Achievement, Consumer Judging, Poultry Judging, Clovers and Company, Statewide events, and National Conference. Bronson has competed in Performing Arts-Vocal, Sports, and Health projects. The past two years he made it to State Congress competing in the Performing Arts- Vocal category, and Health category placing second overall. Bronson has performed in Clovers and Company, which is a statewide 4-H performing arts group. He attended the National Youth Healthy Living Summit as one of only eight delegates selected by Georgia 4-H. Bronson is the County Council Public Relations officer in Chattooga County and served as the 2016-2017 Vice-President of Northwest District Senior Board. He enjoys competing in cross-country and track. Bronson states, “I would have never imagined seven years ago that I would be doing the things I am today. I love having the amazing opportunities to make an impact in my community, state, and nation through Health, Leadership, Citizenship, Performing Arts, and Friendship.”

Ericka Lord is a State Representative from Ben Hill County. She is a junior in high school and has been an active 4-H’er since the fourth grade when she competed at her first DPA in the Crafts Project. She has served as the Southwest District Junior Board President and Senior Board President. She has competed at State 4-H Congress in the Poultry and Egg Science project, trained and received certification as a HOPE and Health Rocks ambassador, and competed at state Poultry Judging and Consumer Judging. Ericka believes that 4-H is incredibly beneficial for today’s youth because of the many skills and new learning experiences it provides. This year she wants to promote the organization to the best of her ability in hopes that it can benefit even more young people. She is thankful for all of the life skills, friendships, opportunities, and memories that 4-H has given her, and she is ecstatic to spend the year serving her peers on the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors.

Evie Woodward is a Southeast District Senior 4-H’er who holds one of the State Representative positions for this year’s GA 4-H State Board of Directors. Evie is from Coffee County and is in the 11th grade and has been homeschooled her entire life. She joined 4-H in the seventh grade and has been heavily involved ever since. Evie developed a strong love for 4-H over the years. In her local 4-H club, Evie has held various club offices, and she has been a teen leader since eighth grade. She was also privileged to serve on the Southeast District Junior and Senior Boards. Evie created a project that feeds children at a local elementary school who are food insecure. The project, “Bagging Hunger”, was formed in March of 2016, and Evie plans to continue this program throughout her 4-H career. Evie won first place in the district area Leadership in Action competition with her ” Bagging Hunger” project and received a $500 grant at State Congress. Evie has a passion for drama and theatre. In fact, she plans to study theatre at Valdosta State University and pursue an entertainment career. Evie is heavily involved with her county 4-H program and appreciates all they do for her. “Georgia 4-H has transformed my view on life, leadership, and hard work in so many ways. I am so blessed with the friends and advisors in my life. State Board has been a blast so far, and I have not even seen the half of it! Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Georgia 4-H, for all of the wonderful opportunities you send my way.”

Donovan Nelson is the Northeast District State Board Representative from Morgan County. His 4-H career began when he met Ms. Susan Goldman, his county extension agent. She encouraged him to run for president of his 4-H club and taught him the importance of giving everything your best, win or lose. Now a junior in high school and the starting running back for Morgan County High School, he continues to develop a love for sports and 4-H. He has competed in District Project Achievement in the health project and more recently the sports project. He has enjoyed competing is judging events ranging from wildlife and forestry to poultry. He is a certified Health Rocks Ambassador and has served on both the Northeast District Junior and Senior Boards of Directors. Because Donovan is so passionate about sports and healthy living, he draws inspiration from sports heroes like Michael Jordan, who once said, “Some people want it to happen, some people wish it would happen, others make it happen.” Donovan has taken this message to heart and knows that whatever he wants from life, he must work for it. He is thankful for the many lifelong friend and many opportunities Georgia 4-H has provided him with. Donovan cannot wait to serve Georgia 4-H this year on the State Board of Directors in order to “Make the Best Better!”

Cody Whitlock is the Northwest District State Board Represemtative from Coweta County. He joined 4-H when he was around 5-years-old and gave his first demonstration at his county’s local livestock club soon after. He lives on a family farm that houses twelve different species of livestock. Cody became more and more involved with 4-H each year. When he turned 8, his grandmother gave him a set of old English chickens and from that point he developed a passion for the poultry industry. This inspired him to join his local 4-H Poultry Club and judging team. Cody has shown goats, chickens, horses, dairy heifers and rabbits. He has also competed in Wildlife Judging, Poultry Judging, Forestry Judging, Dairy Judging, Dairy Quizbowl, CPA, DPA, and numerous county competitions. Recently, Cody has mastered in Poultry Judging and Forestry Judging. Cody has held many local leadership positions, including serving as president of the Livestock Club, his middle school 4-H Club, and County Council. He has also served on the Northwest District Board of Directors. In the future, Cody hopes to earn a degree in avian biology and desires to continue his involvement with the livestock industry he loves so much. Cody states, “I have the motivation and drive to reach success, but 4-H has the resources and knowledge to get me there.”

Lindsey Kate Steedley is the Southwest District Representative from Clinch County. She is a senior at Clinch County High School and has been an active 4-H member since the fifth grade. She has served her district as president of the Junior Board of Directors and board member on the Senior Board of Directors. Lindsey Kate has also served as an FFA chapter officer for the past four years, spent two years as a varsity cheerleader and has been an active member of the senior Beta Club since the ninth grade. She has competed in the General Recreation Project at both the district and state level for the past three years and stays active in her county 4-H club year round. Lindsey Kate is a Certified Teen Leader and loves reaching out to Cloverleaf 4-H’ers by assisting in activities such as project achievement and county wide dances. Lindsey Kate aspires to serve as a summer camp counselor to help reach out to young 4-H’ers from all over the state. She has been positively impacted by Georgia 4-H and all of the wonderful friends she has made. Lindsey Kate’s favorites quote states, “Great leaders don’t set out to be a leader, they set out to make a difference. It’s never about the role – it’s about the goal.” Lindsey Kate plans to put these words into action this year and is beyond thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the organization she loves so much!

Southeast District State Board Representative, Zachary Holick from Chatham County, has been an active 4-H’er for the past four years. Zach is a senior in high school, but dual enrolls at Armstrong State University. He plans on attending the University of Georgia next fall. Zach has served on the Southeast District Senior Board of Directors and enjoys serving as a teen leader for his county’s 4-H program. Zach is also currently serving as president on his county Board of Directors. He has attended Senior Conference, State Council, Fall Forum and State Congress. Zach has competed in the Wildlife and Marine Science category as well as Family Resource Management at District Project Achievement where he advanced to compete at State Congress in both categories. Additionally, he has been a member of the wildlife, forestry, poultry, and consumer judging teams. He has moved on to the state competition with both his poultry and forestry teams. Besides keeping busy with school and 4-H activities, Zach enjoys the challenges of creating and maintaining successful small businesses. He also enjoys spending time on the field playing varsity soccer, swimming and cross country. He wants to thank Georgia 4-H for all the amazing opportunities and the ability to serve others and strives to give back to the club that was so important to his personal growth over the years.

James Hancock is your State 4-H President from Irwin County in the Southwest District. James has been an active 4-H member since the 4th grade. One of the things he has enjoyed in 4-H has been Poultry Judging where he and his team earned a master status at the state competition and advanced to the national competition. At the national level, his team placed second. James also mastered in the Veterinarian Science project area. James served as the President of the 2015-2016 Southwest Senior Board. He is indebted to 4-H for the many lifelong skills he has obtained in areas such as leadership, public speaking, and interviewing. Also, James is thankful for the friendships he has made in 4-H and he wants to ensure that the 4-H culture continues to make everyone feel welcome. James is excited for this upcoming year and he hopes this years board will provide a great experience for every 4-H’er at every event. He is humbled to be able to serve 4-H’ers and he hopes that more youth will realize the benefits of being a Georgia 4-H member.

The State Board Vice President, Sophia Rodriguez, is a fifth-year Liberty County 4-H’er. Among her 4-H accomplishments, she has mastered in the Communications Project, attended National 4-H Conference, serves on her county club’s board as President, served on Southeast District Junior Board as Vice President, and served on Southeast District Senior Board as President. Sophia loves 4-H with her whole heart and her passion for the club is seen in her extensive teen leader work and strong commitment to her community. She is a Clovers and Company member, Military Ambassador, and Health Rocks Ambassador. She competes in Land Judging, Forestry Judging, Poultry Judging, and Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging. Out of all of the opportunities that 4-H has given her, her favorite is being able to teach classes to people and fellow 4-H’ers. She hopes to continue her 4-H career past high school and plans to apply to be a 4-H Camp Counselor. Sophia feels so blessed to have the opportunity to serve her peers and knows that this will be one of the best years of her life. 

Hamp Thomas is a State Representative from Chattooga County. He is a junior in high school and has been involved in 4-H since the fourth grade, but has grown up in the program that he calls family. Hamp is a Master 4-H‘er in the Dog Care and Training Project. He has been involved in Cotton Bowl Consumer Judging, shooting sports, livestock, Dean Award, serves as a STEM ambassador as well as various leadership and community service projects. He was Vice-President of Northwest District Junior Board and served as a Northwest District Senior Board officer as wellHe enjoys agriculture, public speaking, and being an active leader. Hamp believes 4-H is a catalyst in positive development and has grown him to be a well roundedleader. One of his favorite quotes comes from John D. RockerFeller “I believe that every right implies a Responsibility; every opportunity an Obligation; every possession a Duty”, Hamp likes this quote because he says he is honored to be at the point in his 4-H career to give back to the club that has given him so much. 

Kyle Sellers is a State Representative from Northeast District and from Columbia County. Kyle joined 4-H in fifth grade and has been a very active 4-H‘er for the past seven years. He has served his District as Senior Board President and Junior Board President. Kyle is passionate about music and is a seven year member of Clovers and Company. He loves singing and playing guitar. He has also enjoyed working with younger 4-Her’s as a Certified Teen Leader at Cloverleaf Camps and aspires to be a 4-H Summer Camp Counselor in the future. Kyle has competed in many judging events and competitions such as Poultry Judging, Cotton Boll and Consumer Jamboree, Leadership in Action and Dean Award. Kyle is a junior in high school. He plays varsity football, he’s active in his high school show choir, and is a member of the National Junior Shag Dance Team. Kyle believes 4-H has created his character, skills, as well as talents and developed him into a confident leader. He thanks 4-H for giving him everlasting friends and memories and is honored to serve on this year’s State Board.

Lukas Freeman is a State Representative from Northwest District and lives in Cherokee County. Lukas has been involved in Georgia 4-H since fourth grade. He has served as the Cherokee County 4-H Vice President and is currently serving as President. Before serving on State Board, he served as Northwest District’s Senior Board Vice President. He has also recently been elected as the Creekview High School Junior Class Vice President and is Treasurer of the High School Drama Club. His interests include filmmaking, stage production, musical theater, acting, writing, and music. He loves being on the stage and he has acted in various school and local performances. He is also the guitar/bass player and singer in his band, The Young Clerks. Lukas has competed in judging events such as Cotton Boll Consumer Judging and Wildlife Judging. He also assists with the annual Rabies Clinic. Lukas enjoys being a positive role model to Cloverleaf 4-H’ers as a Certified Teen Leader. Lukas aspires to hopefully one day be a camp counselor at one of the many summer camps 4-H has to offer. Being in 4-H and having the opportunity to serve as a leader has been life changing for Lukas. Through these opportunities he has learned valuable life skills about service, work ethic, public relations, and values. Lukas is honored to tell of his 4-H experiences and strives to get more and more people involved in this great program!

Rylee Dickinson is the Northeast District Representative elected to serve on the 2016-2017 State Board of Directors. She is from Stephens County and is currently in the eleventh grade at Stephens County High School . Rylee began her journey with 4-H in the fifth grade. During the last seven years she has spent her time striving to make the best better, and through this time she has served on the Junior and Senior Board of Directors for the Northeast District. She has also competed in many judging events as a member of her county’s Consumer Judging team and Forestry team. Rylee also competes in District Project Achievement where she combines her passion for public speaking, her competitive spark, and her love for 4-H involvement. She thoroughly enjoys attending 4-H summer camp and plans to apply for a summer camp counselor position after high school. She has taken the skills that she has obtained from her time in this program back to her hometown to benefit the other extracurriculars she is involved in including the SCHS Beta chapter, Hosa club, Anchor club, National Honors Society, and Competitive Dance Team. Rylee believes that 4-H is the future for youth all across the nation and is a comfort zone for children and teens to figure out who they are. She is grateful to be serving on the State Board of Directors and looks forward to a memorable year of representing this youth development organization.

Georgia 4-H Northwest District State Board Representative, Georgia Hanson, has been an active Pike County 4-H‘er for seven years. She has always enjoyed her class club meetings as a Cloverleaf, but after attending her first state event, she was hooked and knew she wanted to be a leader in the 4-H community. Serving on the Northwest District Junior and Senior Boards helped her realize what it takes to be a State Board member. Georgia has also enjoyed serving on her county club’s board as reporter and president. Music has always been a passion of Georgia’s and she loves sharing her talents through Clovers and Company. Since fifth grade, she has tried a variety of things in 4-H: Forestry Judging, Wildlife Judging, Poultry Judging, Cotton Boll and Consumer Jamboree, Georgia National Fair competitions, cloverleaf, junior, and senior 4-H summer camps, Junior Rally, Senior Conference, Fall Forum, State Council, and her personal favorites, District Project Achievement and State Congress. Through being a teen leader, she aspires to be a camp counselor at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center when she graduates. 4-H has taught Georgia countless skills, has given her life long friendships, and has shaped her into the wonderful young woman she is today. Georgia encourages anyone who is in 4-H to join and see how it changes their life for the better.

Savannah Padgett is the Southwest District Representative from Decatur County. Savannah is a high school senior, a third generation 4-H’er, and has been active in Georgia 4-H since the fifth grade. Savannah’s 4-H involvement includes District Project Achievement, three trips to State Congress in the Fashion Revue project, State Council, Fall Forum, Dean Award competition, Senior Conference, 4-H Ambassador, Certified Teen Leader, Archery team, and 4-H Summer Camp. She served as President at the local level and has held other positions as well. Since seventh grade, Savannah has competed in 4-H cooking competitions at the Georgia National Fair and for the past two years has entered items in the food preservation and sewing competitions. Through project achievement and educational sessions at state events, Savannah credits 4-H for influencing her decision to pursue a degree in Family and Consumer Science in Fashion Merchandising with an emphasis on Product Development and Design at the University of Georgia. She plans to be involved in the Collegiate 4-H Club so she can give back to 4-H. Outside of 4-H, Savannah was the 2016 Decatur County delegate on the Washington Youth Tour, MOWR student at Bainbridge College, junior reporter for her school newspaper, and active in her church youth group. Since seventh grade Savannah has aspired to be a 4-H camp counselor to share her love for 4-H with tomorrow’s leaders. Savannah said, “Through 4-H I have gained friends across the state that will forever be a part of my life and the most important lesson I have learned through 4-H is to be persistent and never give up”. Savannah is excited and honored to serve on the Georgia 4-H Board of Directors and strives to “Make the Best Better”.

Southeast District State Board Representative, Emma Bacon, is a seventh year Tattnall County 4-H‘er, and a senior at Tattnall County High School.  Emma has served on the Southeast District Junior Board of Directors, the Southeast District Senior Board of Directors, and as a County Teen Leader. She has attended Junior and Senior Conference, State Council, 4-H Summer C amp, Fall Forum, 4-H Day at UGA, and several county events. She is a member of Clovers & Company, and she has participated in Performing Arts Vocal at DPA for the past seven years earning two trips to State Congress. Emma has also competed in Archery, Forestry, Dean Award, and the 4-H Variety Show at the Georgia National Fair.  She credits 4-H with giving her some of the best years of her life, skills she will need in the future, and the best friends she could ever ask for.

Ben Hancock, Georgia 4-H state president is a third generation 4-Her from Irwin County in Southwest District. He is the son of John and Lori Hancock. Ben is the second oldest of six and all siblings are 4-H’ers or future 4-H’ers. He joined 4-H in the fourth grade and has been in love with 4-H ever since. Georgia 4-H has made a major impact on his life and he wouldn’t be the same without it. So far in his 4-H career, Ben has had the opportunity to serve as Southwest District Senior Board Vice President and as the Georgia 4-H State Board President, double mastering in Poultry Judging, being recognized as the high individual scorer at the National Poultry Judging contest, and making many amazing friends. Hancock, a junior in high school states that attending the University of Georgia has always been his dream. Ben is overjoyed and thankful his peers have given him the opportunity to serve on state board and he looks forward to an awesome year.

Ezra Hall is a State Representative from Bartow County in the Northwest District. He attends Cartersville High School, where he is a senior. Ezra has been an active 4-H’er since the 5th grade. He credits his 4-H career to his county agent, Allison Perkins, and 4-H associate, Kim Payne. He participates in District Project Achievement each year in the History project, and he has made it to State Congress for the last two years. He also participates in Consumer Judging, where he has made it to state twice. Ezra is a Master 4-H’er in Horse Judging and was high scorer for Georgia at the National Horse Judging Competition. He serves as a teen leader for his county at Cloverleaf summer camp and credits the kids he works with for being the reason why he wants to be a 4-H agent after college. His favorite 4-H memory is getting on State Board with his two best friends, Thomas and Matthew. Outside of 4-H, he serves as president of both Y-Club and Beta Club at his school, and is the Editor-in-Chief of his school’s magazine. He is also a Co-Captain of the Cross-Country team. He also enjoys camping, kayaking, volunteering, and politics.

Matthew Pryor is State Board Vice President from Bartow County in Northwest District. Matt joined 4-H when he was 9 years old following in his sibling’s footsteps. Matt recently served as President of Northwest District Senior Board. One of his favorite 4-H experiences was making the “Senior Board Rap Video” with his fellow board members, especially his close friends, Thomas Gilbert and Ezra Hall. Matthew has Mastered in the Communications Project Area, Horse Judging, Consumer Judging, and National Conference. He served as a teen leader this year at National Congress in November. Videography is Matt’s passion and he has started a videography club in his county and has his own youtube channel (YouTube.com/matthewRpryor). Matthew enjoys performing in Clovers and Company where he sings and dances. When Matt is not working on 4-H, home school, or volunteering, you will find him behind or in front of the camera. Matt is grateful and honored to be a part of Georgia 4-H.

Thomas Gilbert is a State Representative from Bartow County in the Northwest District. He is a master in the Performing Arts – General project area, Dean’s Award (Communications and the Arts), Consumer Judging, and National Conference. Thomas started 4-H in 3rd Grade, and his initial involvement came through the performing arts, always competing in various performing arts projects. He is a four year member of Clovers & Company and has performed at national 4-H events like National 4-H Congress and National 4-H Talent Revue. Thomas also enjoys the leadership aspect of 4-H and has developed leadership skills as a National 4-H Congress Design Team Member along with serving as Vice-President of Northwest District Senior Board and President of Northwest Junior Board. Outside of 4-H, Thomas enjoys playing football, piano, tap-dancing, and making videos with his bud, Matthew.

Anna Holcombe is a State Representative from Hart County in the Northeast District. Anna mastered in the Human Development project in eleventh grade and in Forestry Judging in ninth grade. She participates in poultry judging, the Georgia 4-H Communications and Technology Team, and is a Bully Busters Ambassador. Anna has been in 4-H since fourth grade and when asked why she joined 4-H she states, “I have always looked up to my older sisters who were involved in 4-H, so when I found out I could join, I could not wait for the opportunity when I was old enough to make friends and learn new things from such a great organization and still to this day 4-H serves as a way for me to meet new people. “ Her favorite hobbies include playing the piano and fiddle, reading, listening to music, community service, and spending time with friends and family. Anna says that because 4-H is such an eclectic organization, she has learned leadership, citizenship, communication, and public speaking skills that will continue to benefit her for the rest of her life, which is one of the many reasons why she loves Georgia 4-H!

Caroline Sweat is your Southeast District Representative on the State 4-H Board of Directors from Johnson County. Caroline is in eleventh grade and has competed in the Performing Arts Vocal and Performing Arts General categories at District Project Achievement. She is a member of Georgia 4-H Clovers and Company and is a Master 4-H’er in Cotton Boll Consumer Judging. She also served as a board member on the 2013-2014 Southeast District Senior Board of Directors. Caroline has been involved in 4-H for five years.

Cody Norris is the Northwest District Representative on the State 4-H Board of Directors from Heard County. Cody has been an active member of Georgia 4-H for seven years. He also serves as president of the Heard County 4-H Club, competes on the Poultry judging Team, Consumer Judging, participated in Youth Summit, and is on the State Health Rocks team. Cody has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “When I was in elementary school I heard that 4-H was for all types of people. Being the shy, yet curious, child that I was I decided to see what it was about. I always kept to myself, and was too scared to talk to anyone, but now I’m not afraid to introduce myself to a stranger, to hold a conversation with large groups of people, or even get on stage in front of hundreds of 4-H’ers for an assembly. I joined 4-H simply because it’s a life changing organization.” His favorite hobbies include playing tennis, attending church, hanging out with friends, and attempting to impact everyone’s life that he comes in contact with! He says that being Georgia 4-H is to be confident in all that you do, and to make the best better!

Hannah Rucker is the Southwest District Representative on the State 4-H Board of Directors from Tift County. Hannah is in the 12th grade and competes in the Target Sports category at District Project Achievement. She also is an Operation Military Kids Ambassador, competes in Sporter and Precision Air Rifle competitions, served as the Southwest District Senior Board President, and is a Master 4-H’er in the Consumer Judging Competition. Hannah joined 4-H officially as a 5th grader, but grew up around it because of her father’s former job as a County Extension Agent. It has always been a dream of hers to be on both Senior and State Board. Hannah hopes to master in her project area and to one day become a camp counselor at Wahsega 4-H Center. Hannah sees 4-H not only as a club, but as one big family that will be the first to throw their arms around anyone while being a huge support system through anything and that is why she is Georgia 4-H.

Sarai Mapp is an avid Baldwin County 4-Her and serves as the Northeast Representative on the State 4-H Board of Directors. She has been in 4-H since the 4th grade, for a total of 8 years. She served on the Junior and Senior District Boards for the Elite Northeast District. Among the many other activities 4-H has to offer, her favorite is State 4-H Council, held each June. This love results from the numerous amounts of people she gets to meet and the lifelong friendships she has made here. All in all, she loves 4-H and is excited to embark on a new journey as a member of the 2014-2015 State Board of Directors.

2012 Board Bios

Dowdy White is your Georgia 4-H President from Crisp County in the Southwest District. Dowdy competes in the Computers project. He is also very active with his county’s 4-H program serving as a certified teen leader, assisting with various activities, and serves on the Georgia 4-H Youth Technology Leadership & Public Relations Team. Dowdy has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “I joined the 4-H Club in fifth grade because it seemed like the thing to do, and now I am in it because I truly want to help improve my community and become a better citizen.”  His favorite hobbies include volunteering and hanging out with friends. Dowdy says that because he volunteers in his community, he loves to help others, and strives to make the best better and that is why he is Georgia 4-H.

Juawn Jackson is your Georgia 4-H Vice President from Bibb County in the Northwest District. Juawn competes in the Public Speaking project. He is also a Dean’s Award-Leadership master, participates in Consumer Judging, a member of the Georgia 4-H Youth Technology Leadership & Public Relations Team, served on the Youth Summit Planning Committee, Operation Military Kids Ambassador & Advisory Council member, and a certified teen leader. Juawn has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “Because I am given the opportunity to be myself and to make new friends”.  His favorite hobbies include community and civic service, public speaking, fishing, and hanging out with friends. Juawn says that because 4-H has taught him numerous leadership and life skills that he can use in his daily life and that is why he is Georgia 4-H.

Jordan DeWitt is your State Representative from Ware County in the Southeast District.  Jordan mastered in the Poultry & Egg Science project in the tenth grade. He also shows pigs, goats, horses, and competes in Consumer Judging, Poultry Judging, Horse Judging, Horse Quiz Bowl, and Livestock Judging. Jordan has been in 4-H for nine years and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “To make new friends and meet people”. His favorite hobbies include barrel racing and raising livestock. Jordan says that because he has gained leadership, public speaking, organizational, and communication skills through many 4-H events such as poultry judging and showing livestock that is why he is Georgia 4-H.

Kevin Morris is your State Representative from Chatham County in the Southeast District. Kevin mastered in the Conservation project this past year. He participates in Forestry Judging, Poultry Judging, and is a certified teen leader and Operation Military Kids ambassador. Kevin has been in 4-H since seventh grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “My mom signed me up for an art class taught by a team of senior 4-H’ers and after that class I was hooked, and I signed up for every class that summer and ultimately joined 4-H”. His favorite hobbies include playing piano and cello, swimming, reading, participating in church activities, and most of all hanging out with family and friends. Kevin says that because 4-H has helped him to find his inner strength, pushed him outside his comfort zone, gave him confidence to become involved, and to develop leadership skills and that is why he is Georgia 4-H.

Hugh Slaton is your State Representative on the State Board of Directors from Lee County in the Southwest District. Hugh competes in the Communications project. He is also involved in Challenge Bowl, Consumer Judging, Poultry Judging, Georgia 4-H Youth Technology Leadership & Public Relations Team, and is a certified teen leader. Hugh has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “My family grew up in 4-H because my father was a master in Project Achievement, so 4-H came naturally to me.” His favorite hobbies include soccer, participating in National Honor Society, Student Government Association, Math Team, photography, public speaking, and social networking. Hugh says he is Georgia 4-H because the fact that he eats, sleeps, and breathes this wonderful club.

Erin Burnett is the Southwest District Representative to the State Board of Directors from Mitchell County. Erin competes in the Performing Arts-General project. She also is a Science, Engineering, and Technology Ambassador, competes in Livestock Judging, Archery, member of the Healthy Lifestyles Taskforce, Georgia 4-H Youth Technology Leadership & Public Relations Team, and a certified teen leader. Erin has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why she joined 4-H she replied, “I joined not only because I was excited about everything that I could learn, but also for the new friends I hoped to meet.” Her favorite hobbies include singing, practicing and teaching taekwondo, reading, and listening to music. Erin says that 4-H is more than a club, but a family and because she is privileged to be a part of that family that is why she is Georgia 4-H.

Terrence Gibson is the Southeast District Representative to the State Board of Directors from Appling County. Terrence competes in the Performing Arts-General project. He also participates in Consumer Judging, Poultry Judging, Horse Club, and a variety of community service projects. Terrence has been in 4-H for seven years and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “When I was in elementary school, I saw a video promoting Cloverleaf Camp and I went to it and I’ve been hooked to 4-H ever since”. His favorite hobbies include volunteering at a local nursing home, riding on four-wheelers, fishing, playing piano, writing songs, and worshipping God. Terrence says that because
4-H has made him a better person publicly and privately and that is why he is Georgia 4-H.

Tess Hammock is the Northeast District Representative to the State Board of Directors from Monroe County. Tess mastered in the Public Speaking project this past year. She also is a Health Rocks State Team member, serves on the Georgia Healthy Living Task Force, member of Clovers & Company, certified teen leader, participates in Consumer Judging, and so much more. Tess has been in 4-H since fourth grade and when asked why she joined 4-H she replied, “I joined 4-H Horse Club as a fourth grade Cloverbud, mainly just to tag along with my older sister. 4-H Horse Club gave me the confidence I needed to learn to be safe, care for my horse, and become a confident horsewoman”. Her favorite hobbies include singing, playing guitar, golf, participating in theatre, and riding horses. Tess says that being Georgia 4-H is about taking leadership roles, with or without a title. It’s about learning to communicate and be a better citizen.

Matthew Pace is the Northwest District Representative to the State Board of Directors from Chattooga County. Matthew mastered in the Beef project this past year. He also serves as president of the Chattooga County 4-H Council, competes on the Beef Show Team, Consumer Judging, mastered by attending National 4-H Conference, participated in Youth Summit, and is a Science, Engineering, and Technology and Global Awareness ambassador. Matthew has been in 4-H since fifth grade and when asked why he joined 4-H he replied, “Even though I started 4-H in fifth grade, it wasn’t until seventh grade that I became interested in the beef program. After a couple months into showing beef cattle, I learned of all the great opportunities that 4-H has to offer.” His favorite hobbies include showing beef cattle, riding horses, running, hanging out with friends, and making a difference in the world! Matthew says that because of the impact this organization has had on the formation of his work ethic, speaking skills, and what makes him, him, and that is why he is Georgia 4-H.