The 4-H program is proud to recognize four outstanding youths who have been awarded this year’s 4-H scholarships. These young leaders have demonstrated hard work, dedication and a commitment to making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Cassidy Huber has been an active member of 4-H for nine years. Over that time, she has participated in a variety of projects, including breeding and market rabbits, veterinary science, cats, self-determined, and wildlife conservation. Huber has also served as a leader within her club, gaining valuable skills in leadership, public speaking and teamwork. These experiences have helped her build confidence and develop a passion for helping others reach their goals. This fall, she will attend Fort Lewis College, where she plans to study biology with the goal of pursuing a career in animal sciences.
Reflecting on her 4-H experience, she said: “I think that 4-H has made me a better person and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to learn in this community of amazing people.”
Ellie Casias also brings nine years of 4-H experience, during which she has held every officer position in both her club and the County Council. Her leadership roles have strengthened her confidence and shaped her into a dedicated leader and problem-solver. Casias will be attending American University in Washington, D.C., where she will enroll in an accelerated master’s program in International Affairs with plans to minor in Spanish or possibly another language. Her ultimate goal is to work in humanitarian aid, focusing on helping the people who need it most around the world.
“4-H has made me a better person by giving me opportunities to grow more confident as a leader and problem-solver but also as a person,” she said. “I have seen the impact I can have on my club, community and world and have been inspired to give back through community service, volunteering and even starting my own nonprofit. I have learned to be more accepting and open-minded to people’s differences.”
With an impressive 12 years in 4-H, Lucy Porter has shown true dedication to the program. She has served in all officer positions within her club and was previously our County Council president. Porter will be attending Colorado Mesa University to study criminal justice, with the goal of becoming a crime scene investigator. She credits 4-H for giving her the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations with adults and for instilling values she will carry with her throughout life.
“4-H has given me comfort and security and the confidence to talk to adults about any subject,” she said. “By being in 4-H since I was a Cloverbud, I have learned about the four ‘H’s Head, Heart, Hands and Health – and I will use them for a lifetime.”
Victoria Brown, who has spent eight years in 4-H and held multiple club officer positions, will be pursuing a career in nursing with plans to become a nurse anesthetist. Brown reflects warmly on the impact 4-H has had on her life.
“My 4-H experience has truly made me the person I am today,” she said. “Having been raised around the 4-H community, I have learned so much about life. I have learned how to give a helping hand and when to ask for a helping hand myself. I have learned how important it is to be a part of a group that is always looking for the best for you.”
I am so very proud of each and every one of our seniors. They have all worked so hard and are truly some of the best people I know. I am honored to have been able to watch them grow and become the amazing young adults they are today.
Graduating from high school and the 4-H program is the end of one chapter and the beginning of the rest of their lives. I know they will do great things and I cannot wait to see what their futures hold.
Thank you to our amazing community for its support that gives us the ability to offer these scholarships to our outstanding youths. If you would like to support La Plata County 4-H, please contact the Extension Office.
Angela Fountain is the La Plata County 4-H youth development agent. Reach her at angela.fountain@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6460.
