4-H Youth Development

Since 1994, the Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador program has provided youth with opportunities to grow as leaders while promoting 4-H across the state. For many members, becoming a State 4-H Ambassador is more than a title — it is a chance to make a lasting impact.

 

“Being a State 4-H Ambassador is an honor, but it’s also one of the best ways a teen can stretch their leadership skills,” said Cathy Allen, 4-H curriculum coordinator at the state 4-H office at Oklahoma State University. “This program takes what’s already inside them, their potential, their passion, their story, and turns it into something bigger than them.”

 

Applications for the State 4-H Ambassador program are due March 15. Hard copies must be postmarked by that date, and electronic applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Applicants must be at least 13 years old and have one year of high school remaining.

 

State 4-H Ambassadors work with club members and adult partners to make their local 4-H program more visible in their county and across the state. They also play an important role in communicating with 4-H alumni and supporters. Ambassadors may remain in the program for the duration of their 4-H careers, provided they remain in good standing.

 

Applicants who score the highest will advance to the interview selection day, which includes an extemporaneous speech, a face-to-face interview and a writing assignment.

 

For Taryn Gathers of Custer County, the decision to apply came after observing ambassadors at state events.

 

“I love to lead, but I don’t always feel the need to be front and center,” Gathers said. “I consider myself a ‘silent leader,’ someone who leads from behind the scenes. Seeing that leadership style reflected in the ambassador program is what encouraged me to apply.”

 

As an ambassador, Gathers has helped with major events such as the Clover Classic Golf Tournament and the Clover Bowl contest at State 4-H Roundup, and she met U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins during a visit to Express Ranch.

 

“Being an ambassador has strengthened my confidence, leadership and perseverance,” she said. “I’ve learned how to manage my time and set boundaries, which has helped me grow not only as a leader, but as a person.”

 

Rebecca Whiteley of McCurtain County became interested in the program after interacting with some of the ambassadors at State 4-H Roundup and said it was a major turning point for her.

 

“I met a few of the state ambassadors, and learning what they do and how the program helped them really inspired me,” she said. “That was what ultimately led me to apply.”

 

Whiteley’s favorite experience as an ambassador came during the 2025 State 4-H Roundup.

 

“I was able to meet and have lunch with Jill Bramble, president and CEO of the National 4-H Council,” she said. “She was extremely kind and supportive of our 4-H ventures, and this was an event I’ll never forget.”

 

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.