The travel group included adults Cindy & Brian Kayhart of Addison County, and the following youth: Ashton Perkins, Windsor County, Kylee Shepard, Addison County, Taryn Burns, Addison County, Bryn Nelson, Orange County, Reegan Kelley, Orleans County, Sloan Nelson, Orleans County, Emmeline Paquet, Orleans County, Emma Pothier, Orleans County, Eva Bury, Orleans County, and Jayden Ploof, Addison County.
On Friday, Sept. 25, the Vermont 4-H delegation successfully departed for Chicago to participate in a pre-conference tour with youth from New York. This opportunity started several years ago so youth from the two states can build friendships, strengthen connections and begin their National 4-H Dairy Conference experience together.
On Sept. 27, the Vermont and New York youth arrived in Wisconsin and joined more delegates from across the United States for the official start of the conference and an immersive exploration of agriculture.
At the heart of the National 4-H Dairy Conference is an engaging, hands-on learning experience that brings agriculture to life. Through interactive seminars led by dairy industry and biotechnology leaders, specialists, and university professors, delegates gained valuable insights into the science, innovation, and career opportunities shaping today’s agricultural industry. Visits to a variety of agricultural businesses and farms further connected classroom learning with real-world experiences, exposing youth to the many possibilities within the industry.
The delegates returned home on Oct. 2 with new knowledge, meaningful connections, and experiences that may help shape the rest of their lives. The National 4-H Dairy Conference is about inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders, building connections across state lines, and helping young people envision their place in the future of agriculture.
Vermont 4-H thanks the Vermont Dairy Promotion Council for sponsoring this opportunity, and the many area businesses who also helped with donations!
To learn more about the 4-H livestock programs, email Vermont 4-H Livestock Educator Wendy Sorrell at wendy.sorrell@uvm.edu or contact your local county educator.
Vermont 4-H provides youth development opportunities to our communities, made possible by state and federal funding, generous donations and the support of dedicated volunteers. Want to get involved? Learn more on Vermont 4-H's website.
