Place of residence: Homer Glen, Illinois
4-H member in which county & club name: Cottonwood – Loyal Lakers/Carson Climbers
Involvement with 4-H (as youth or adult): My main involvement (and love) with 4-H was my livestock projects and livestock judging; however, I was also active on the Federation Team and a county Ambassador.
Favorite 4-H memory: Hands-down, it is winning the 2004 Minnesota State Fair Market Lamb Show.
Advice to current 4-H youth: Surround yourself with people you admire – they’ll be the ones to push you to become the best version of yourself. Also, always remember that anything worthwhile requires work and will probably be hard.
Why do you think people should be involved in 4-H? At its core, 4-H has always instilled many crucial life skills – public speaking, community involvement, and personal development. Oftentimes, these skills seem to get overlooked or lost in today’s society. But just as importantly to me, people should be involved in 4-H for the relationships that are formed - whether it’s with peers, a support system, or even a “family”. I am fortunate to have gained lifelong friendships and mentors through this organization, with many of whom I still cross paths with today.
Current occupation: Red Meat Analyst at Urner Barry/Mintec
Family: Husband (Max), and daughters (Christina & Isabella)