/ ECS / Matthew Kempf
As a true 4-H member I learned by doing from cows to crafts to international exchange programs that took me around the world and across many continents. 4-H instilled the ability to always succeed, and keep making the best better Without 4-H I would not be the person I am today.
Matt Kempf is a medical professional entrepreneur. A graduate of Muskegon Community College and the St. Louis School of Medicine, he owns and operates Michigan Regional Removal and manages the Spectrum Health Urgent Care facility. Kempf is also Muskegon Countys chief medical examiner investigator, a profession he has assumed for 21 years. Past president of the Michigan Association of Medical Examiners Affiliates, Kempfs other medical experience includes Michigan Gift of Life tissue recovery specialist and pathology assistant for Diagnostic Labs and Michigan Forensic Medicine, Newaygo County EMS paramedic, and positions at Gerber Hospital Emergency Department and the New Focus Center for Mental Health. He also taught paramedic classes at Baker College and Muskegon Community College, served 10 years as a firefighter and medical training officer for the Holton Fire Department and the past five years as a Camp 911 instructor. For 38 years, Kempf has been involved with 4-H and horses in one way or another. As a member of the Happy Hustlers Club, the same club he has co-led with his mother for the past 22 years, he received numerous county medals and was a state representative for 4-H equine programs. His 4-H international travels brought him to destinations across Europe, Asia and Central America. Kempf served five years on the Newaygo County 4-H Horse Developmental Committee, four years volunteering for the countys 4-H Horseback Riding for the Handicap program and the past three years as a member of the Newaygo County Agricultural Fair Association. For the past 20 years he has served his local community on the Muskegon County Sherriff Mounted Posse. He also owned and operated a horse drawn carriage service, Yellow Rose Carriages, for 18 years.
Through 4-H, I have become the person I am today. Not only has it made me who I am, but has given me lifelong friendships and leaders to look up to. 4-H and everyone I have met through 4-H has fostered my passion for animals and led me to the path I am considering for my future.
— Bridget Paidl, Menominee County
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he Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award recognizes 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas. 2024 4-H Salute to Excellence Award winners pictured include Robert Richards (left) and Jennifer Specht (right). Click on the button below to view all of the 2024 4-H Legacy Award winners!