UT Extension Humphreys County 4-H Youth Development agent cultivates skills and confidence in the next generation
Where are you from, and how did your career lead you to UTIA?
I am originally from Springfield, Tennessee, where I was born and raised on my family’s tobacco, row crop, and cattle farm. Coming from a farming background, it was only natural for me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in agri-business from Austin Peay State University.
One summer, I had the opportunity to be an Agriculture and Natural Resources/Community Economic Development intern for UT Extension. Half of my time was spent at the Davidson County Extension Office, where I had the opportunity to shadow agents in multiple program areas such as horticulture, agriculture, 4-H, and Family and Consumer Sciences. The other part of my time was spent working with Governor Haslam’s staff to maintain gardens and provide tours across the residence.
After graduation, I was an environmental education apprentice with the US Forest Service at Brandon Spring Group Center, which provided me with valuable insight into coordinating and facilitating overnight group camps. I then went to Murray State University for a Master’s degree in Agriculture Education. After graduation, I accepted the position as a 4-H Agent in Humphreys County!
How did you first get involved with 4-H, and what led you to become an Extension agent?
I first started 4-H in the fourth grade, and my county 4-H agents were Mr. Timmy Mann and Mrs. Kathy Finley in Robertson County. I loved 4-H days at school, and my favorite project was the chick chain. One summer while I was working on my bachelor’s degree, I had a slight thought of what it would be like to work for Extension, so I asked Mr. Timmy if I could volunteer a few days of the week. This experience guided me into applying for the UT Extension summer internship a few years later. I believe that my background in agriculture, 4-H experiences, and the UT Extension internship led me in the direction of a career as an Extension Agent.
What does a typical day look like for you?
If you asked other Extension agents this question, they would probably say the same thing…no two days are alike! During the school year, a lot of my days are filled with meeting 4-H clubs and then hosting after-school activities, such as judging team practices, shooting sports, country ham project meetings, or project groups. If school isn’t in session, then I may be at camp, volunteering on service projects with Honor Club members, hosting a day camp, or preparing for 4-H clubs for the upcoming school year.
What is your favorite 4-H lesson to teach?
This isn’t necessarily a lesson per se, but I love leading service projects with my 4-H members. It’s awesome getting to see the 4-H’ers become invested in and excited for a project that impacts their communities. During 4-H clubs, I really enjoy teaching STEM activities that are hands-on. One of my favorites uses Makey Makey controllers, which allows students to learn about conductors to develop circuits using everyday items like bananas or play-doh.
What do you enjoy most about working with youth in Humphreys County?
My favorite part about working with the youth in Humphreys County is being able to watch them grow throughout the years. There have been multiple students that begin 4-H as quiet and reserved but become more confident as they challenge themselves to try something new, such as public speaking. Similar to this is when 4-H becomes the starting point of a child’s new interest. For example, a student that participates in 4-H cooking classes now wants to become a chef when he or she is an adult.
You lead several judging programs, including poultry and meats judging. What skills do students gain from participating in competitions like these?
Some skills that students gain from these judging teams include decision making, teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving. With most judging teams, students also gain area-specific knowledge. For example, with poultry judging, they learn how to candle eggs, judge hens, grade eggs, and identify defects in further processed poultry products.
What has been one of your proudest moments during your time working for UT Extension?
One moment that comes to mind is the day when one of my All-Star members was selected to serve on the Western Region 4-H All-Star Council. Behind the scenes, I saw her determination and levels of confidence within herself grow so much over the years. When they passed the sash over to her, it was definitely a moment where I had to hold back the tears of excitement.
How have you seen 4-H positively impact the lives of youth in your community?
One of the greatest impacts that I have seen is how 4-H allows students to have an opportunity to try new things and get outside of their comfort zone. Before their recent closure, I used to co-lead 4-H club meetings at Natchez Trace Youth Academy (NTYA) with the Perry County 4-H Agent, Hope. NTYA was a residential mental health facility for males approximately 10-18 years old. So many of these students were able to experience 4-H for the first time ever, which helped them develop new interests. One day, a student said, “4-H makes me feel like I’m somebody.” This statement truly embodies the importance of 4-H and 4-H Agents, as we have the great opportunity to use this program to impact a student’s life.
What are your hopes for the future of 4-H in your county and beyond?
For the youth in the county, I hope that they continue to seek new opportunities through 4-H to challenge themselves and develop new skills or interests. I hope that our 4-H youth grow into adults who are changemakers and lead the future of their communities.
What do you like to do outside of work and/or what is a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues may not know?
My newest hobby that I have taken up is crocheting! I love getting requests on items to crochet from my friends and family, since it challenges me to learn new techniques.
