Six exceptional 4-H leaders from Michigan were honored with the 2024 Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards for their dedication to youth education and leadership in various agricultural fields. Recipients include Donna Budd (Wayne County), recognized for expanding opportunities in livestock and community service; Rick Gould and Kevin Yeager (St. Joseph County), who collaboratively support 4-H swine projects and foster young leadership; Charity Hackett (Berrien County), coordinator of a club empowering youth with disabilities through equestrian activities; Angela Oakman (Washtenaw County), who encourages member leadership and community involvement in her horse-focused club; and Mandy Rogers (Washtenaw County), a long-time volunteer who leads multiple programs promoting positive youth development and community service.
These awardees exemplify the 4-H values of education, leadership, and community engagement across diverse agricultural disciplines, from livestock and horses to horticulture and veterinary science. Their efforts have created safe, empowering environments for youth to grow skills, confidence, and leadership abilities, ensuring the continued success and impact of Michigan’s 4-H programs.
