Matthew T. Shane
Class Year: 2014
County: Kent
Title: District 12 Coordinator, Michigan State University Extension
Bio:One of the main leadership principles that was instilled in me by my parents was to always try to leave things better than I found them. I believe that 4-H has embodied this principle for generations after all, the motto is To make the best better. Little did I know at 8 years old that the projects that I enjoyed completing for the fair set my course for college, graduate school, and a career with MSU Extension. The life skills I learned, and leadership skills I developed, helped me to have the confidence I needed to reach my goals. Now through my role with MSU Extension, I am able to help future generations of youth to develop those skills as well.
Matt Shane began his career with MSU Extension in 1997 as a multi-county livestock educator. In 2003, he assumed the role of Lenawee County Extension Director where he served in the dual role until 2010. Since 2010, Shane has served in the role as District 12 Coordinator, managing 6 county Extension offices: Lenawee, Washtenaw, Monroe, Livingston, Jackson and Hillsdale. He has been recognized on numerous occasions including the MCEA John A. Hannah Award for Excellence, the National Association of County Agricultural Agents Achievement Award and as Lenawee County Farm Bureau Volunteer of the Year. A member of the Kent County Cherry Valley Livestock 4-H Club, Shane continues to support 4-H today. His three daughters are active Washtenaw County 4-H members and wife is a 4-H volunteer leader of a 4-H afterschool science club and the Lenawee Christian 4-H Robotics 4-H Club. He was instrumental in developing these clubs where he has volunteered to teach and build materials. Shane has also served as Lenawee Christian School Board member, secretary, and president; Academic Life Committee Chair, Lenawee Christian Enrollment Committee member, Lenawee Christian Scholarship Committee member, Lenawee Community Collaborative chair, Lenawee ISD Tech Center Agri-Science Advisory Board chair, Stubnitz Environmental Education Center Advisory Board member, Food System Economic Partnership team member, Lenawee County Agriculture Advisory Committee advisor, and Lenawee County AG News Advisory Board member. He is also a member of the Michigan Sheep Breeders and Michigan Cattlemans associations.