4-H Youth Development

Since 1994, the Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador program has provided club members additional opportunities to hone their leadership skills. Hundreds of 4-H youth have benefitted from the opportunities afforded them through this program.

 

Applications will soon be available to 4-H’ers who are interested in learning more about leadership, as well as promoting the 4-H program across the state, said Cathy Allen, 4-H curriculum coordinator at the state 4-H office at Oklahoma State University. The State 4-H Ambassador application deadline is March 15. Hard copies of applications must be postmarked by March 15. Electronic applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on that day. Interested applicants must be 13 years old by the application date and have at least one year of high school remaining.

 

“We’re looking for enthusiastic young leaders who are excited about 4-H and have a desire to share the organization’s mission with others,” Allen said. “Our ambassadors will work with club members and adult partners to make their local 4-H program more visible in their county and across the state. The ambassadors also take a role in communicating with 4-H alumni and supporters.”

 

Once a club member becomes an ambassador, they may remain one for the duration of their 4-H career as long as they are in good standing. Be sure to check the guidelines for being an ambassador because they have recently been updated.

 

Based on application scores, the top applicants will advance to the interview selection day slated on May 3. The three-part interview process includes an extemporaneous speech, a face-to-face interview and a writing assignment.

 

Dani McTague has been an active State 4-H Ambassador for nearly two years and says filling out the application was one of the best things she’s done as a 4-H’er.

 

“I learned about the program through my county educator and by talking to current ambassadors,” McTague said. “I knew immediately this was something I had to be a part of. Being an Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador lets me tell the 4-H story and share it with others. I love making people aware that 4-H continues to make an impact on the lives of Oklahoma youth, and it has helped me grow as a leader.”

 

Throughout her time as an ambassador, McTague said she has been able to learn more about the other side of 4-H that many are not aware of.

 

“I’ve helped behind the scenes of the Oklahoma State Fair and learned how 4-H entries are judged and displayed. I’ve enjoyed learning more about Oklahoma 4-H donors and others who support the program,” she said. “Before becoming an ambassador, I never thought about where the resources for 4-H come from. Now I know where funding comes from, and I have a personal relationship with a handful of 4-H donors with whom I get to correspond regularly.”

 

Because of her positive experiences as an ambassador, she said she would encourage all eligible 4-H’ers to apply.

 

“The leadership skills I’ve learned through our retreats is helping me be a better and stronger 4-H member,” McTague said. “I’m improving my public speaking, civic engagement and team-building skills. Being an ambassador has also helped me be more confident and shaped me into a strong leader.”

 

For more information about the State 4-H Ambassador program or the application process, contact Allen at (405) 744-8892 or cathy.allen@okstate.edu.