“Ambies” are the heart and face of Minnesota 4-H
Since 1968, more than 1,300 young people have contributed to their communities through their leadership as 4-H State Ambassadors.
Their influence extends across the state as they design and plan regional and statewide events for other young people—building their own personal skills along the way.
Hundreds of “Ambie” alumni continue to be involved in 4-H today as mentors, judges, club leaders, and donors.
“Minnesota 4-H owes much to our 1,400 Ambassador alumni, who are leaders in their communities and professional networks,” says Jacquie Lonning, University of Minnesota Extension’s state director of 4-H citizenship and leadership programs. Extension hosted a reunion for 500 4-H Ambassador alumni and friends in the 4-H building at the Minnesota State Fair. “They celebrated the 50-year milestone,” says Lonning, “but they also reflected on the continuing need to build young leaders for Minnesota.”
Did you know?
- All Minnesota youth who have completed 10th grade can apply.
- Ambassadors serve a full year, and one of their first duties is as official hosts of the 4-H building at the Minnesota State Fair.
- Ambassadors serve an average of 382 hours per year, about the same as a three-sport high school varsity athlete.