Twenty Virginia 4-H’ers were selected at State 4-H Congress to represent Virginia as delegates to the 2015 National 4-H Congress, held Nov. 27 through Dec. 1 in Atlanta. The theme for the event was “Excite, Spark, Ignite.
Attending National 4-H Congress is a life-changing experience for Virginia 4-Hers.
“National 4-H Congress, a 4-H leadership event that brings together over 900 youths from across 45 U.S. states and territories, is one of the highest recognition opportunities for senior 4-H’ers,” said Tonya Price, a 4-H Extension specialist with Virginia Tech. “These youths were selected because they have demonstrated exceptional skills in leadership, citizenship, and overall achievement.”
The selection process includes an application, a project portfolio, and an interview.
National 4-H Congress is often seen as the pinnacle of a long 4-H career. The five-day conference recognizes the delegates’ outstanding leadership and community work, and provides an opportunity for leaders within 4-H to meet and learn from each other. Highlights of the event included keynote speakers, tours of Atlanta, service work around the city, educational workshops, an international banquet, and a formal gala.
Even outside of the formal sessions and activities, the delegates benefit from experiences such as navigating public transportation, reading maps, and exploring the city’s landmarks and cultural attractions. Four adult chaperons accompanied the youth delegates from Virginia.
In a reflection activity following the event, youths wrote about the importance of embracing the characteristics that make them unique, building their self-confidence, and realizing they have special gifts to offer the world. One participant wrote, “The most important thing I gained from National 4-H Congress is to be confident in myself. Without a doubt, National 4-H Congress is a premier event for 4-H’ers.”
Partial funding was provided through the Evangeline Swain Endowment Fund, which has supported Virginia National 4-H Congress participants since 1993.
