Notes from Jennifer

For everyone

Colleagues,

I hope your week is off to a good start.

I’m pleased to recognize Minnesota 4‑H youth and staff who have recently been honored for their leadership, service, and commitment at the state and national levels.

2026 National Youth in Action Award winner

Antonio Becker - Minnesota 4‑H alum from Morrison County, former 4‑H State Ambassador, and current animal science major at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities - has received the highest national honor in 4‑H, the National Youth in Action Award, for his leadership and advocacy for healthy living.

The award includes:

• $5,000 scholarship to support college or advanced learning
• One year of professional/media training, networking, and spokesperson opportunities
• All-expenses-paid trips for Antonio and a chaperone
• Official reference letter from a National 4‑H Council leader

All applicants also receive media and storytelling training and entry into the national 4‑H story database for potential media opportunities. Antonio’s achievements reflect the very best of 4‑H.

2026 Youth in Action Award finalists

• Laura Mohapatra - Blue Earth County 4‑H’er and Minnesota 4‑H State Ambassador, recognized for mobilizing efforts to address food security.
• Seamus Schwaba - Winona County 4‑H’er, former 4‑H State Ambassador, and freshman at Carroll University. Founder of Sugarloaf Theatre, Seamus brings arts and leadership to his community.

Distinguished Diversity and Inclusion Award - 2025 All-Extension Conference

We also celebrate staff honored at the 2025 All-Extension Conference in Duluth:

• Michaela Ahrens - Extension educator, 4‑H Youth Development, Watonwan County
• Amy Sparks - 4‑H civic engagement and leadership Extension educator, southwest region

I had the pleasure of working with this team as they piloted our 4‑H True Leaders in Belonging quick guides, now being used nationwide, with resources secured from CHS and National 4-H Council. Their commitment to youth leadership, civic engagement, and partnering with Madelia Public Schools is truly commendable.

Congratulations to these remarkable award winners.

Warm regards,

Jennifer A. Skuza

Associate dean