/ ECS / Charles T. LaSata
4-H helped me to develop a sense of hard work and honor.
Charles T. LaSata continues to serve the community he grew up in as a circuit court judge for the city of Berrien. In 1999, he was elected to represent Michigans 79th district. He served as vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee and was a member of and provided leadership for various appropriations subcommittees including corrections, community health, higher education, consumer industry services/history, arts and libraries, and natural resources/environmental quality. His political leadership has included serving as Saint Joseph mayor and commissioner. He also was a partner and shareholder in the law firm of Bittner, Hyrns, LaSata, Riemland & Daly, P.C. LaSatas community involvement extends beyond his public service. He is a member of the Berrien County 4-H Foundation, the Cornerstone Alliance, Ducks Unlimited, Farm Bureau, the Michigan United Conservation Clubs and the Saint Joseph-Benton Harbor Rotary Club. His honors include being named Legislator of the Year by the Michigan Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in 2001 and by the Michigan Sheriffs Association in 2000. He received the Champion of Children Award from Help One Student to Succeed (HOSTS) and has been an Elliott School of International Relations Fellow at George Washington University and the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development Fellow.
4-H has taught me to not be afraid of taking risks.
— Heidi Barrington, St. Joseph 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!