Are you a Rising Leader in 4-H? Join us at the Oklahoma 4-H Rising Leaders Conference! This exciting event is designed for 4-H members in grades 3-7 who want to explore the many opportunities that 4-H has to offer. Participants will engage in hands-on experiences across a variety of projects, develop essential leadership skills and make lasting friendships with fellow 4-H members. Whether you're looking to grow as a leader or discover new passions, this conference is a perfect opportunity to connect, learn and lead in the 4-H community.

 

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Conference Agenda

 

• 8:30-9:20 a.m.: Registration
• 9:30 a.m.: General Assembly
• 10:00 a.m.: Workshop Rotation 1
• 11:00 a.m.: Workshop Rotation 2
• 12:00 p.m.: Lunch (picnic on lawn)
• 12:45 p.m.: Workshop Rotation 3
• 1:45 p.m.: 3^rd-5^th Grade Movement Break
                       6^th-7^th Grade Leadership Break
• 2:15 p.m.: Workshop Rotation 4/Parent Session
• 3:15 p.m.: Closing Session/Evaluation
• 3:30 p.m.: Adjourn

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Workshop Descriptions

 

Morning

 

America's Original Caffeinated Drink

Presenters: Christopher Azbell and Courtney Natseway

Project Areas: Horticulture, Wildlife, Natural Resources

 

Description: Discover the fascinating history and science behind Yaupon Holly, North America’s only native caffeinated plant. This workshop combines education and hands-on activities to explore its uses, benefits and cultural significance. Participants will gain insight into horticulture and natural resources while engaging in a unique learning experience.

 

Dream it, Plan it, Do it.

Presenters: Dani McTague and Grace Hobbs

Project Areas: Civil Engagement, Leadership, Citizenship

 

Description: In this workshop, participants will learn how to turn their ideas into impactful community service projects. Through brainstorming and planning activities, youth will discover that leadership and civic engagement start with small steps — and they’ll even create a handmade project to take home. This session empowers members to make a difference in their communities, no matter their age.

 

Forensic Files: Crack the Case!

Presenters: Tori Nelms, Madison Maddox, Kristin Maddox and Nichelle Azevedo

Project Areas: Forensic Science, STEM

 

Description: Become a detective for a day in this thrilling forensic science workshop! Participants will analyze a staged crime scene, dust for fingerprints and extract DNA to uncover the truth using real investigative techniques. This hands-on experience builds critical thinking and problem-solving skills while introducing youth to the exciting world of forensic science.

 

The Hello Workshop

Presenter: Crystal Ashalintubbi-Shipman

Project Area: Leadership

 

Description: First impressions matter, and this workshop helps youth master them. Through fun activities like eye-contact challenges and introduction practice, participants will learn how to communicate confidently and make a positive impact in social situations. These skills are essential for leadership and building strong relationships.

 

Leaders in Action: Exploring Government and Decision Making

Presenters: Mason Luka, Billy Jackson and Christi Luka

Project Areas: Leadership, Civic Engagement

 

Description: Dive into the world of leadership and government in this interactive workshop. Participants will debate and vote on bills, explore the roles of the three branches of government and practice decision-making skills through fun activities. By the end, youth will understand how fairness, compromise and teamwork shape leadership and civic engagement.

 

Planning Your Project Club Stitch By Stitch

Presenter: Zoye Gossen

Project Areas: Fabric and Fashion, Family and Consumer Science

 

Description: Learn how to start your own project club while developing hands-on sewing skills. This workshop shares practical tips for organizing a club and offers fun activities like hand-stitching to spark creativity. Participants will leave with the confidence to lead and create their own 4-H project groups.

 

Seven Seas STEM

Presenter: Kelly Wardlaw and STEM Innovators

Project Area: STEM

 

Description: Hoist the anchor and set sail on a high-seas STEM adventure! In this hands-on, pirate-themed workshop, youth will dive into engineering challenges as they build and test boats, design mini cannons, and even crack the secret Pirate (Binary) Code. With creativity and curiosity as their compass, participants will explore science, technology, engineering and math through swashbuckling fun. Come aboard for a journey full of discovery, problem-solving and excitement — STEM has never been this seaworthy!

 

Afternoon

 

Awesome STEM

Presenters: Liz Taylor and Grady County STEM Innovators

Project Areas: STEM

 

Description: What is the strongest shape in construction? Do rocks change? How does your ear drum work? Youth will explore a variety of STEM activities and experiments that will help them gain an appreciation of STEM as a 4-H project.

 

Adding Character Critters to Your 4-H Project

Presenters: Jean Bailey and Madison Morrison

Project Areas: Child care, Leadership, Personal Development, Citizenship

 

Description: Participants will explore the "Character Critters" book series through a hands-on workshop that blends storytelling, simple crafts and playful activities to help teach the positive traits highlighted in each book. Along the way, they’ll create easy, ready-to-use projects they can take home — a perfect addition to your babysitting or child development project.

 

Finding Balance with STEM and Yoga

Presenters: Kara Wardlaw and Kelly Wardlaw

Project Areas: STEM, Healthy Living

 

Description: In this hands-on, minds-on workshop, participants will explore the concept of balance — both physically and in everyday life! Create a STEM project related to balance, practice flexibility by combining yoga with the 4-H Pledge, and learn how to apply these concepts to science, engineering and personal wellness. We'll connect the four H’s — Head, Heart, Hands and Health — to the roles youth juggle in 4-H, school, family and friendships. This engaging session encourages reflection, movement, and creativity while promoting healthy habits and problem-solving skills.

 

Kindness is a Super Power!

Presenters: Serena Woodard and Oklahoma County 4-H Teen Leaders

Project Areas: Leadership/Personal Development, Civic Engagement/Community Service, Public Speaking, Performing Arts: Expressive/Leisure Arts

 

Description: Get ready to unleash your inner hero! In this fun and hands-on session, you will discover how kindness is the greatest superpower a leader can have. Through creative crafts and team hero missions, you will learn how small acts of caring can make a big difference in your school and community.   

 

Mind Your Manners Monkey!

Presenter: Debbie Sharp

Project Areas: Leadership, Family and Consumer Science

 

Description: This interactive workshop teaches essential social etiquette skills that every leader needs. Participants will practice proper handshakes, table setting, polite conversation and writing thank-you notes, all while learning the importance of respect and courtesy in everyday life. By the end, youth will feel confident in their ability to make a positive impression in social and professional settings.

 

Paws & Claws: Exploring Veterinary Science

Presenters: Killian Baker and Jessica Baker

Project Area: Vet Science

 

Description: Step into the world of veterinary medicine and discover what it takes to care for animals. This hands-on session covers topics like wound care, parasite prevention, broken bones and body systems, giving participants a realistic glimpse into the life of a veterinarian. Youth will leave with a better understanding of animal health and the exciting opportunities in veterinary science.

 

Tallest Towers!

Presenter: Donna Greenfield and Riley Hill

Project Areas: Leadership, Teamwork

 

Description: Put your teamwork and creativity to the test in this exciting design challenge. Participants will sketch, build and present their tallest tower using limited time and resources, then reflect on their strategies and problem-solving process. This workshop promotes leadership, collaboration and innovative thinking.