Alger County Michigan 4-H alumna Kennedy DeFrancesco participated in many state and national 4-H events during her years in 4-H. However, 4-H Capitol Experience was most life-changing, igniting plans for a political science degree and a career in law.
Alger County 4-H alumna Kennedy DeFrancesco has served as a Michigan 4-H Foundation youth trustee since January 2020, giving her time as a means of giving back to a program she says gave her so much. As a former member of Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program, she participated in Alger County’s Munising 4-H Club for eight years in the 4-H project areas of crafts, sewing, scrapbooking, leadership, civic engagement and community service. Through her experiences with 4-H, she developed critical life skills and found a passion for a career path that she is actively pursuing today.
“I am very fortunate that I was able to be involved in 4-H,” DeFrancesco said. “4-H programs create situations in which our youth can be inspired for their futures and provides them the motivation that they have the ability to make a difference.”
Her 4-H experience gave her the courage to stand up for what she believes in and provided her with the skills to be a good and effective leader. DeFrancesco also met people with shared interests who became lifelong friends.
”4-H impacted my life in more ways than I can say. I would not be the person I am today if I had not had the 4-H experience in my life,” she added. “4-H guided me down the path I needed to pursue to achieve my goals.”
According to DeFrancesco, one of the greatest life lessons she learned in 4-H was the importance of community and leadership. 4-H was also one of the first places she felt fully accepted and surrounded by people that genuinely supported her.
“Being able to have the courage to take charge and not be afraid to speak up for what I believed in was instilled in every 4-H member. Through this leadership and sense of a community, I was able to become my own individual and discover different things that interested me, and it is still something I strive for today,” she said.
DeFrancesco worked to develop her leadership skills through statewide events such as 4-H Exploration Days, 4-H Capitol Experience, the Michigan 4-H State Youth Leadership Council, the Michigan 4-H Youth Leadership and Global Citizen Spectacular, as well as national events like 4-H Citizenship Washington Focus and National 4-H Congress.
“Although I have a countless number of amazing 4-H memories, I would have to say my ultimate favorite would be attending National 4-H Congress. This event was organized so beautifully and was so incredibly fun. All the people in the Michigan group were immediately fast friends, the adult chaperones were the coolest, nicest people. Everything I was able to experience during that event was so fun and educational. I am so grateful that I was able to have such an amazing experience at this particular event. I would encourage any eligible 4-H member to go if they have the opportunity!”
However, DeFrancesco says that 4-H Capitol Experience is the event that ultimately helped her find her career choice. 4-H Capitol Experience is an annual conference that helps prepare youth for active citizenship by focusing on civic engagement and public policy. DeFrancesco was excited that she was able to attend a real-life Supreme Court hearing, watch the proceedings of the Senate or House of Representatives, learn to write bills, and meet with real politicians to talk about the validity of the bills. She also met Gov. Whitmer (a senator at the time) who signed the mock bill presented by 4-H’ers at the event.
“4-H was responsible for my chosen path for my education and career. I attended lots of awesome 4-H events around the United States and had the absolute best time at each one of them, but it wasn’t until one specific program that I realized this is what I needed to be doing in my life: 4-H Capitol Experience, it gives 4-H members a whole governmental experience.”
“This event gave me a real life look at the inside proceedings of our state government,” DeFrancesco stated. “The experience spurred my love for governmental proceedings. I returned home and told my mom that I had decided to go into political science. I now have my bachelor’s in political science and am looking to pursue a career in law. I don’t think I would be on the same path I am today if it weren’t for 4-H!”
Currently working towards a master’s degree in philosophy at Eastern Michigan University, DeFrancesco earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from Ferris State University, where she was a member of the Speech and Debate Team, Model United Nations (UN) Club, and focused on women’s advocacy.
“My 4-H career helped shape the decisions I made for my future. By participating in 4-H programs throughout high school, I discovered a passion for leadership, political science, and the need to help make a difference.”
DeFrancesco continued, “If you are thinking about joining 4-H, please do it. You will meet so many amazing people, get to experience so many different incredible opportunities, and be a part of an amazing community who will support you continuously.”
“4-H has enhanced my life in so many ways and continues to do so. I am so grateful for being a part of this community. I can honestly say that it has changed my life for the better, therefore I am confident it will positively change others.”
To learn more about becoming involved with Michigan 4-H as a youth member or adult volunteer, visit the Michigan 4-H website.
Lauren Emerick’s 4-H experience led her to pursue a degree combining her interest in animals and a desire to help tackle global environmental challenges.
Michigan State University (MSU) Extension 4-H alumna Lauren Emerick is a Fisheries and Wildlife senior in the MSU Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. The Fisheries and Wildlife undergraduate program develops an understanding of the cultural, recreational and economic values of biological resources.
“I grew up involved in 4-H and knew from a young age that I wanted to work with animals, but as I grew older, I learned more about conservation and environmental issues and wanted to find a way to contribute to tackling some of these pressing global challenges,” Emerick said.
Emerick was a member of Oakland County’s Bowers Farm 4-H Club in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where she served as the club secretary and president. She was also a founding member and president of Pingree Farms 4-H Club in Detroit, for five of her 10 years involved in 4-H.
“4-H absolutely shaped both my educational choices and career path. MSU is the hub for all things 4-H in the state of Michigan, and because of this I grew up involved with the MSU community and learned a great deal about what the university has to offer.”LAUREN EMERICK, OAKLAND COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA & FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE SENIOR
“4-H absolutely shaped both my educational choices and career path. MSU is the hub for all things 4-H in the state of Michigan, and because of this I grew up involved with the MSU community and learned a great deal about what the university has to offer,” Emerick said. “The connections you make through 4-H are lifelong and unbreakable, and it’s incredible to be able to see what all my fellow club members have taken from the experience.”
She participated in a variety of 4-H programs including the Oakland County 4-H Fair, 4-H Discovery Days and 4-H veterinary and animal science camps. Her 4-H projects were primarily animal science projects including cows, sheep, dairy and meat goats, pigs, chickens and rabbits which she raised, showed and sold at the Oakland County Fair. Additionally, she also participated in cooking and baking contests and science projects at her county fair.
“I initially chose MSU for my undergraduate education as an Animal Science major with the intent of going to veterinary school, but throughout my time in 4-H, I realized that my passion for animals extended beyond agriculture and veterinary science to help conserve and protect wild animals. Because of this, I switched my major from Animal Science to Fisheries and Wildlife, and I have been able to marry my passion for animals with my desire to help protect biodiversity and the environment.”
During her college career, Emerick has been extremely active in undergraduate research, both in the field and analyzing field data, with several MSU labs. She has found an interest in resolving human-carnivore conflict. She is excited to share this passion and knowledge to help people understand how their interests and those of the large carnivores are intertwined. Outside of her studies and research, she is active in both the MSU Outdoor Club and the Fisheries and Wildlife Club.
“Taking the skills that I learned from my classes and my professors allowed me to become a competitive candidate for these wildlife research positions and has given me the chance to live and work in places I never thought possible,” she explained. “I have had the opportunity to live and work with wildlife in Michigan, New Mexico and Colorado, working with species such as the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, white-tailed deer, black bear, mountain lion, elk and so many more.”
She is currently studying abroad in Botswana, conducting wildlife research and conservation efforts in the Okavango Delta. After graduating in the spring, she plans to pursue a Fulbright Scholarship to spend nine months in Uganda, researching the ways that local knowledge and local communities can be uplifted through conservation. While also working to develop a more equitable, sustainable framework for global conservation efforts.
Ultimately, Emerick plans to attend graduate school and obtain a Ph.D. as a wildlife researcher at a major university.
“I want to continue to find ways to not only conserve wildlife but also to help uplift human communities by carrying out Ph.D. research and educating the next generation of wildlife professionals,” she said.
Emerick is one of the 2022 CANR Alumni Association Scholarship recipients.
Name: Lauren Emerick
Hometown: Beverly Hills, Michigan
Major/Concentration: Fisheries and Wildlife, B.S., with concentrations in wildlife biology and management and conservation biology
Expected graduation date: May 2023
Why did you choose your major and why MSU?
I decided to major in Fisheries and Wildlife (FW) to help marry my passions for animals, the environment and working with people. MSU provided incredible scholarship, research and academic opportunities, especially for students in the FW major, so it was an obvious choice!
Who or what inspired your interest in the major you selected?
I grew up involved in 4-H and knew from a young age that I wanted to work with animals, but as I grew older, I learned more about conservation and environmental issues and wanted to find a way to contribute to tackling some of these pressing global challenges. I was lucky enough to travel to Tanzania during my senior year of high school with my family and experience such a wide variety of wildlife. I learned about global wildlife conservation efforts which made me realize that I wanted to work with wildlife professionally and make a positive impact on the field of wildlife conservation.
What has been one of your best experiences within your major so far?
Being a Fisheries and Wildlife major comes with so many amazing experiences, but the best experiences by far have been the opportunities to travel for work. I have had the opportunity to live and work with wildlife in Michigan, New Mexico and Colorado, working with species such as the eastern massasauga rattlesnake, white-tailed deer, black bear, mountain lion, elk and so many more. Taking the skills that I learned from my classes and my professors allowed me to become a competitive candidate for these wildlife research positions and has given me the chance to live and work in places I never thought possible. The experiences on campus are just as valuable; everything from electro-fishing in the Red Cedar River to the Fisheries and Wildlife Club fall harvest banquet, to studying with friends in the polar bear room has created nothing but long-lasting, incredible memories.
What do you want others to know about this major?
The FW major isn’t just for people who are interested in hunting or working for the DNR — there is such a broad scope of social, political, economic and environmental components that go into managing and conserving wildlife, and no matter your passion you will absolutely find your place within the FW major. The FW community at MSU is incredibly supportive, kind and close, and not only will this major give you all the tools to work with wildlife professionally, but it will also provide you with a network of friends and colleagues that is valuable beyond belief.
What are some of the best things about being an MSU student?
There is something and someone for everyone at MSU. The number of opportunities that there are to meet new friends, find new passions or get involved with incredible work is astonishing, and even if it takes some time, you will undoubtedly find your crowd and the things you truly love.
Any thoughts or advice for current or new students?
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Whether it’s joining a new club, sending an email to a professor that you’re interested in working with, or applying for a scholarship or leadership position, know that you are capable of much more than you believe, and someone out there recognizes it. Take a leap of faith to follow your true passions and ultimately it will pay off, even if it seems daunting and overwhelming in the beginning. Confidence (even if it’s false confidence!) will go an incredibly long way.
What are your future plans?
I am spending the fall semester of 2022 abroad in Botswana, conducting wildlife research and conservation efforts in the Okavango Delta. After I graduate from MSU, I plan on pursuing a Fulbright Scholarship to spend nine months in Uganda, researching the ways that local knowledge and local communities can be uplifted through conservation and work to develop a more equitable, sustainable framework for global conservation efforts. I plan on pursuing graduate school, and ultimately obtaining a Ph.D. as a wildlife researcher at a major university. I want to continue to find ways to not only conserve wildlife but also to help uplift human communities by carrying out Ph.D. research and educating the next generation of wildlife professionals.
What county and 4-H club(s) were you a member of? How many years were you involved?
I was a 4-H participant in Oakland County for 10 years. I was a member of the Bowers Farm 4-H Club in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, where I served as the club secretary and president. I was also a founding member and president of Pingree Farms 4-H Club in Detroit, for five of my 10 years involved in 4-H.
What 4-H projects and programs were you involved in?
I was involved in a variety of 4-H programs, ranging from the Oakland County 4-H Fair to 4-H Discovery Days, to the 4-H Veterinary and Animal Science Camp. My projects were mainly raising, showing and selling livestock at the Oakland County 4-H Fair and state shows, including cows, sheep, dairy and meat goats, pigs, chickens and rabbits. I also entered cooking and baking contests and science projects at my county fair in addition to my livestock showing.
Did 4-H help to shape your educational and/or career choices? If so, how?
4-H absolutely shaped both my educational choices and career path. MSU is the hub for all things 4-H in the state of Michigan, and because of this I grew up involved with the MSU community and learned a great deal about what the university has to offer. I initially chose MSU for my undergraduate education as an Animal Science major with the intent of going to veterinary school, but throughout my time in 4-H, I realized that my passion for animals extended beyond agriculture and veterinary science to help conserve and protect wild animals. Because of this, I switched my major from Animal Science to Fisheries and Wildlife, and I have been able to marry my passion for animals with my desire to help protect biodiversity and the environment.
What kind of life lessons did you learn in 4-H that are still impacting your life today?
4-H taught me how to be independent, hard-working and confident, which are all attributes that have brought me incredibly far in my education and career. 4-H also taught me how to be a mentor, leader and educator to others, especially as I grew older and became an officer in my clubs. I had to learn how to translate my skills and passions to younger club members, and how to have patience in the process. Going through this experience showed me just how much I love teaching and leading others and helping them recognize their own abilities.
Are you still involved with 4-H today?
I am no longer formally involved in 4-H, but I still keep in touch with club members that I mentored and attend the Oakland County 4-H Fair whenever I can. The connections you make through 4-H are lifelong and unbreakable, and it’s incredible to be able to see what all my fellow club members have taken from the experience.
Floyd and Judy Englehardt, of Le Sueur, Minnesota, are Michigan 4-H alumni from Saginaw and Menominee counties, respectively. They had donated previously to Michigan 4-H, but they wanted to truly make a difference while also making a tax-free donation.
To achieve both goals, the Englehardts decided to make an IRA charitable rollover gift, also referred to as a qualified charitable distribution (QCD).
The Englehardts chose to designate their gift to support general 4-H scholarships for 4-H’ers pursuing post-secondary education. However, IRA charitable gifts can be designated to a donor’s 4-H county or a 4-H program area of choice.
“We were both active in 4-H and both offered 4-H scholarships to attend Michigan State University (MSU),” Judy Englehardt recalled. “4-H is a good activity to learn new things and meet other people working towards similar goals.”
Floyd and Judy met during their college years at MSU. Judy worked at the State 4-H Office and helped set up for 4-H events on campus. It was during one of these on-campus 4-H events that Judy and Floyd met and later married and had four boys. Floyd earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural mechanization from MSU in 1963 and became an engineer at Green Giant after serving three years in the navy. Judy earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from MSU in 1964 and became a teacher.
How to make a tax-free IRA charitable distribution
Qualifying donors aged 70½ or older may donate to charity each year by transferring up to $100,000 directly from an IRA.
- Instruct your IRA custodian to distribute a gift amount (up to $100,000) directly to the Michigan 4-H Foundation by Dec. 31.
- The gift amount can count toward the required minimum distribution (RMD) for the tax year. If you have check-writing features on your IRA, checks must clear your account by Dec. 31 to count toward your RMD for the calendar year.
- The entire gift amount qualifies as a charitable distribution. The gift amount is not included in your personal income for federal taxes, lowering your taxable income.
- The distribution cannot be considered an income tax charitable deduction. The gift is considered a tax-free gift because the donor doesn’t pay taxes on the distribution if it’s made directly to a charity.
- Distributions can be made only from traditional individual retirement accounts or Roth IRAs. Typically, 403(b), 401(k), pension and other retirement plans are ineligible.
This opportunity ends Dec. 31, 2022, for 2022 tax credit.
For more information, contact Carrie Horstman by email at greenca5@msu.edu.
A dream fulfilled: 4-H participation as a youth was the catalyst for a career in government.
When high school sophomore Domonique Clemons job shadowed 4th District County Commissioner John Northrup during the Genesee County 4-H Citizenship Academy, he had no idea he would be elected as a county commissioner in the exact same seat as Commissioner Northrup, 10 years later. Yet it was that experience that helped to light the spark for Clemons’ future educational and career choices.
“My 4-H involvement instilled in me that everyone can have an impact on government on all levels, regardless of age or background,” said Clemons.
As a youth, Clemons, a Michigan 4-H alumnus from Flint and 2018 Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society inductee, spent three years in Michigan State University Extension programs like 4-H Capitol Experience and the Genesee County 4-H Citizenship Academy. He then worked for 4-H for five years, serving as a student assistant for 4-H leadership and civic engagement while attending MSU to obtain a bachelor’s degree in public policy. Clemons credits these 4-H experiences for helping to develop the foundation for his current career in local government.
“4-H was not only a program that I was able to learn about different things, and meet new friends, but it also was very important in my development,” said Clemons. “It was my participation in 4-H that taught me important skills like communication, leadership, organizational skills, how to use Robert’s Rules of Order, how to shake hands with someone, and how to be an active citizen in my community. Many of these skills I still use today. 4-H provided a foundation for my leadership development and gave me the opportunity to sharpen my skills and put them to use as a youth participant as well as a student assistant on staff.”
After graduating from MSU, Clemons went on to obtain a master’s degree in political management from George Washington University before starting his political career in 2019 as the legislative director for State Representative Alex Garza (D-Taylor). Since then, his roles have grown to include treasurer for both the Genesee County Democratic Party and Young Democrats of Genesee County, as well as becoming the executive director of the Genesee County Leadership Corps. In November 2020, he was elected to the position of 4th District Genesee County Commissioner and after taking office in January 2021, he was elected vice-chairman of the board and chair of the Public Works Committee.
Despite his busy schedule, Clemons continues his involvement with 4-H today as a volunteer, supporting the 4-H Capitol Experience as a guest speaker and for several years as a judge for the Michigan 4-H State Awards Program. He encourages others to join the 4-H program as well, to help explore their own interests and build the foundation for their future.
“4-H is a great resource for young folks to learn skills, make new friends, and explore career options,” said Clemons. “Often, 4-H is seen as something that is only for kids interested in farming and animals, but that is certainly not the case. 4-H has so many programs and resources for everyone. As a student who grew up in an urban setting, 4-H had a huge impact on me, and I would highly encourage inner city and urban students to get just as involved with 4-H.”
To learn more about Michigan 4-H as a youth member or volunteer, visit 4h.msue.msu.edu.
After graduating from Central Michigan University in spring 2021, Mecosta County 4-H alum Kiara Cushway sent a follow-up letter thanking Mecosta County 4-H once again for her 4-H scholarship, citing 4-H for helping in her educational and career choices.
By Abbey Miller
Mecosta County 4-H alumna Kiara Cushway was involved in Michigan 4-H, Michigan State University Extension’s youth development program, for 14 years. She started out as a member of Big Rapids Community Club and spent most of her 4-H career as a member of Grant Center Pioneers 4-H Club.
“4-H was one of the most memorable experiences I had growing up and played a large role in shaping me to become who I am today,” Cushway said. “The life lessons I learned and the skills and friendships I gained during 4-H, as well as the connections I forged with my animals, have meant a lot to me and have helped foster my passion and love for animals and nature.”
Cushway participated in a variety of 4-H project areas, including turkeys, pigs, ducks, arts and crafts, flower arranging and basketry, among other things. She attended the Mecosta County 4-H Camp as a child, and was a 4-H camp counselor.
“4-H helped foster my love for learning and taught me many valuable skills that helped me succeed in school and as a developing member of my community,” she said. “4-H also provided me with mentors who were invested in my success and who believed in my abilities and were willing to help me grow and learn. As a young person, these relationships and opportunities meant the world to me and helped me grow into the person I am today.”
She continued, “When I was young, pledging my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to better living may have just been words that were spoken at meetings or before shows. But as I have grown and developed, they have become a mantra that I strive to live by. The meaning behind these words and the actions required by them encourage me to use the lessons I have learned in 4-H to work towards making the world a better place in whatever ways I can.”
After graduating from Big Rapids High School, Cushway received the 2017 Mecosta County 4-H Scholarship from the Mecosta County Fair Board that she applied towards her post-secondary education at Central Michigan University (CMU). During her undergraduate years, she had the opportunity to study abroad and complete a variety of research projects. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology in spring 2021.
Ever grateful for the foundation the 4-H program provided her and for the financial support of the scholarship, Cushway sent a follow-up letter thanking the Mecosta County 4-H community after her graduation.
“I am very thankful for the support of Mecosta County 4-H and its investment in my future,” wrote Cushway. “I would not have had the flexibility and opportunity I did without the support I had from groups like yours. I am also very thankful for the experiences, lessons learned, friends made and skills that I acquired during my 4-H years participating in the Mecosta County 4-H program. The memories I have from 4-H are some of the best I have, and 4-H was an integral part of the foundation of my educational and life success!”
Cushway also shared some of the highlights of her college experience at CMU. This included a faculty-led study abroad in New Zealand and a semester abroad in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands where she studied tropical ecology in the rainforests of the Amazon, island biogeography in the famed Galapagos Archipelago and marine ecology in the Pacific Ocean. Cushway was also engaged in a CMU research lab that was focused on native freshwater mussels. Through the lab, Cushway conducted her own research in Michigan rivers, presented at local, state and national and international conferences, and submitted her work for publication. Cushway’s prestigious efforts at CMU were honored with the 2021 CMU Provost’s Award, a group of awards given to only 10 outstanding undergraduate students.
With her undergraduate work complete, Cushway plans to continue her education at Texas State University where she has obtained a fully funded graduate assistantship and she will pursue a master’s degree in aquatic resources. Cushway credits 4-H for helping to shape both her educational and career choices.
“When I graduated high school, I was unsure about what I might want to pursue, but because of 4-H, I knew that I loved working with nature and animals. When I found the biology program and the scientific research that I eventually became involved in, it felt natural to fall into a path that involved animals and conservation. My experiences with 4-H left me very well prepared for both working with and caring for animals in a research setting and designing and conducting scientific research. The love that I have for animals and science that 4-H fostered within me became one of the driving forces behind my post-secondary education, and the feeling of being a part of something bigger and better than yourself that came with being a part of 4-H is something I strive for as a student and a future career professional.”
Beyond helping set her down her current path in life, Cushway also thanks 4-H for helping to develop life skills that benefit her personally and professionally.
“The life lessons that I gained through 4-H have been both multitudinous and indispensable. Caring for my animal projects taught me responsibility and dependability and helped me develop a strong work ethic. Completing record books for my market animals taught me how to conduct basic research and balance and calculate budgets. Working with other 4-H members and clubs taught me collaboration and how to be an effective member of a team. Working with animals also taught me that practice, patience and preparedness can take you far in life, but that it is also important to be willing to be flexible and adapt to situations when things don’t go as planned.”
When asked one of her most memorable 4-H experiences, Cushway recalled one of her first times showing chickens, at 5 or 6 years old as a Cloverbud, a 4-H program for 5- to 7-year-olds. She was very shy and terrified to participate in showmanship. Her parents and sisters had practiced with her to prepare, and she knew exactly what to do, but froze in front of the judge.
“I probably would have quit then and there,” she said. “But, an older girl came up and helped me walk through the showmanship. Her encouragement gave me the confidence to finish the show, and her willingness to help a little kid she didn’t even know has stuck with me, and I think this really embodies what it means to be a 4-H’er.”
Cushway highly recommends 4-H to everyone, she says. “The life lessons I learned and the friendships and skills I developed during my years in 4-H are invaluable to me and have helped me in almost every aspect of my life. The memories I have of 4-H will always be dear to me, and the experiences, connections and opportunities that I had are something that I hope all children could have access to during their formative years and as they are growing to become a part of our local and global communities.”
To learn more about becoming involved with Michigan 4-H as a youth member or adult volunteer, visit the Michigan 4-H website.
Lewis Bordeaux, 4-H alum
An estate gift from Gogebic County 4-H alum Lewis Bordeaux will help sustain the work of the Michigan 4-H Foundation and its support for Michigan 4-H Youth Development.
In appreciation for the solid foundation 4-H provided to his life, Bordeaux made a planned gift to 4-H in the area of greatest need by naming the Michigan 4-H Foundation as a beneficiary of his estate. He passed away on July 23, 2022.
Bordeaux was a University of Michigan graduate who began his career abroad in 1970 as an international affairs and training specialist. He was located in the Middle East with the Raytheon Corporation and Avco Overseas Corporation, serving as an English language instructor and interpreter for the Royal Saudi Air Defense Corps and the Royal Saudi Coast Guard. Bordeaux then worked for 20 years as a flight services and safety instructor and director for English language and computer training for the Saudi Arabian Airlines. He retired in 2007 after serving 10 years with the Booz Allen Hamilton Company as a senior training specialist with the Royal Saudi Navy, though he continued to serve as a special training consultant for the Saudi Arabian Airlines.
Bordeaux, who was inducted into the Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society in 2010, shared that his experience as a Gogebic County 4-H member prepared him for his career and life abroad. He served as a member of county, Upper Peninsula and state 4-H service clubs; a National 4-H Conference delegate in 1962 and a Michigan IFYE delegate to Japan in 1966. He was also a U.S. Peace Corps volunteer to India in 1968 and was a life member of the IFYE Association of the USA, attending 30 European IFYE conferences, three U.S. National IFYE Conferences and three World IFYE Conferences. As an IFYE USA Association member, Bordeaux contributed to the ongoing involvement of 4-H youth members in intercultural learning activities at local, county, state, regional, national and international levels. He served on the National IFYE Association board from 1998 to 2001.
Bordeaux’s estate gift qualified him for membership in the Cornerstone Society. Donors who document a planned gift are recognized as A.G. Kettunen Society members. Established in 2007, this society provides lifetime recognition to donors who have made documented future gifts to 4-H. It allows donors to share their wishes and the impact they would like to see their gifts make to benefit Michigan’s youth. A.G. Kettunen Society members receive a recognition certificate, permanent acknowledgement as legacy donors in the annual report, and, for gifts that exceed $25,000 at maturity, recognition as Cornerstone Society members.
The Michigan 4-H Foundation invites any donor considering a planned gift to contact the foundation at 517-353-6692 to verify that the intent of the gift can be met.
Richard J. Pollard established the Dickinson County 4-H Endowment
Richard J. Pollard
At 97 years old, Richard J. Pollard has created the Richard J. Pollard Dickinson County 4-H Endowment to support his local county program, Dickinson County, Mich., as he is grateful to 4-H for encouraging him to reach his potential.
Pollard was raised on a depression-era farm in Dickinson County where he was an active 4-H member. To this day, he recalls how much his 4-H leader impacted his life, teaching both he – and his fellow club members – about banking. He didn’t have money to open a bank account, so she gave him one dollar. He later paid her back. His 4-H leader also encouraged him to pursue a career.
Pictured above is Richard Pollard (far right) and his younger brothers. This photo was taken in 1938 by his 4-H leader, Miss Lillian Solomonson, when she came to inspect his 4-H garden. It was taken at Pollard Dairy in Norway, Mich.
Pollard studied at Albion College, joined the navy in WWII, and later became a doctor. He was grateful to the navy and rejoined during the Korean War. After the war, he practiced medicine in Detroit, all while remaining active in the naval reserves until his early 60s.
The Dickinson County 4-H Endowment will provide an annual source of unrestricted revenue for Dickinson County 4-H. Funds may support everything from special 4-H projects, to sponsorships for 4-H learning experiences, trips and events.
“The Dickinson County 4-H Program is so thankful for Mr. Pollard’s generous commitment to building a stronger future for 4-H youth,” said Jessica Coron, MSU Extension 4-H program coordinator in Dickinson County. “His contribution will be a vital source of continued support for our local 4-H program. This gift will provide further educational opportunities and scholarships for 4-H youth in our community. Additionally, it has the potential to enhance our current 4-H program. His support is greatly appreciated.”
An endowment is a fund that is permanently restricted – the corpus of the fund is invested and held intact, and the earnings from the fund are used for program support. Endowments provide a dependable and perpetual source of funding that, combined with other annual support, can help ensure that 4-H opportunities are available for all youth, especially those with financial barriers. To learn more about 4-H endowments, visit mi4hfdtn.org/endowments.
One of the country’s largest multi-day 4-H events, 4-H Exploration Days returned for its 51st year in June 2022. A new endowment created by Donald and Linda Eppelheimer will provide 4-H Exploration Days with perpetual funding for years to come.
Each summer, many Michigan 4-H’ers look forward to 4-H Exploration Days, a three-day precollege program held on the campus of Michigan State University (MSU). One of the country’s largest multi-day 4-H youth events, 4-H Exploration Days returned for its 51st year from June 22-24, 2022, after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
“We were so excited to be able to offer 4-H Exploration Days back on campus once again this year,” said Julie Chapin, Ph.D., state 4-H leader and director of MSU Extension’s Children and Youth Institute. “As one of our signature statewide 4-H programs, youth are able to explore their future, try new things and experience college life while gaining confidence and independence through hands-on learning and making friends for a lifetime.”
To ensure there is perpetual support for future generations of Michigan 4-H youth to experience this signature 4-H event, Donald and Linda Eppelheimer, of Crossville, Tennessee, established the David Eppelheimer 4-H Exploration Days Fund. The endowment is in memory of Donald’s brother, David Eppelheimer, who served as a volunteer in the 4-H Exploration Days headquarters for more than 15 years. David also attended 4-H Exploration Days nearly every year — either as a participant, chaperone, conference assistant or headquarters staff member — until his death in 2017.
“It is important that we continue to support programs that test the mettle of tomorrow’s leaders. 4-H Exploration Days might be the first step in that direction and is worthy of our support,” said Don Eppelheimer. “We all strive and hope that Exploration Days has distilled and combined the best of this array of earlier programs.”
“It is important that we continue to support programs that test the mettle of tomorrow’s leaders. 4-H Exploration Days might be the first step in that direction and is worthy of our support.”DONALD EPPELHEIMER
The Eppelheimers were active 4-H’ers in their youth, first as members of the Branch County Blue Ribbon 4-H Club led by Dale and Elizabeth AcMoody. They then relocated to Newaygo County where they were involved with the Lucky 4-H Club led by Mrs. Don Brink and their mother, Phyllis Eppelheimer, and the Hexapoda 4-H Club, also led by their mother. Their father, Marvin Eppelheimer, was a 4-H youth agent in Eaton, Branch and Newaygo counties until his retirement in 1976.
“When your father is a 4-H youth agent and your mother is a 4-H club leader and the nature program director at 4-H camp, you’re sort of in it,” Don said.
He recalls growing up in a 4-H family of three boys (Donald, David and Chad), “One bedroom had an observation hive with live honeybees, one bedroom had a terrarium with Brazilian cockroaches and the last bedroom was a rodent zoo.”
“As a family, we enjoyed nature and 4-H was an avenue to share that experience with others. I recall midnight stakeouts at Newaygo County’s only willow prairie hunting for Luna moths, farm visits to weigh-in cattle for a weight gain project and much more,” he said.
The Eppelheimers often attended 4-H camp, the State 4-H Show and Youth Week.
“A common thread through all three is team building,” Don said. “Hearing someone else’s views on life events is intriguing. Learning to compose and express how you perceive past or future events is a preliminary step to leadership, or at a minimum, compassion for others.”
“4-H activities help build self-awareness and confidence.”
“4-H activities help build self-awareness and confidence.”DONALD EPPELHEIMER
As a teen, David founded an entomology club for the youth too young to join 4-H (now called Cloverbuds). He also participated in a statewide insect collection and pest identification project with Michigan State University. By using a circular black light and a fan trap, flying nighttime insects were captured and sent weekly to MSU entomologists. A weekly newsletter would alert fruit growers and crop farmers of an outbreak of insect pests.
Following his years as a 4-H youth member, David continued his 4-H involvement as an active 4-H volunteer for more than 25 years, contributing to county, state and national 4-H programs. He served as a 4-H volunteer leader in Ottawa County, an adviser to the Kent County 4-H Teen Club for seven years and served as the Kent County 4-H Council president. He also co-chaired the planning committee for the 1986 4-H North Central Regional Leaders’ Forum in Michigan and served on the statewide 4-H entomology developmental committee.
In 2004, David was honored for his 4-H service as a member of the 4-H Emerald Clover Society, the Michigan 4-H alumni hall of fame.
For this honor, David shared how his 4-H involvement contributed to his professional and personal success:
“Whether it is my career or my avocations, I have always responded to an urge to contribute my time, talents and resources. I know this is the fruit of the volunteer ethic I learned through 4-H…I firmly believe I learned how to be an effective classroom leader through 4-H teen leadership, camp counseling and state-level 4-H events. 4-H was the laboratory where I perfected my interpersonal skills and time management skills. It is also where I learned to be a compassionate citizen and to value diversity. 4-H was my classroom for learning to set and achieve goals. My achievements in 4-H established a solid sense of self-worth and potential that has never left me,” David Eppelheimer wrote.
David enjoyed teaching and working with youth so much that he became a kindergarten teacher for Coopersville Area Public Schools. He graduated from MSU with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 1976 and a master’s degree in 1984. He also taught in Guatemala, Belize and the Dominican Republic for two years before teaching at Coopersville. In addition to his distinguished teaching career, he was internationally known for his expertise in Christmas antiques. As a partner in the Elves Antiques business in Grand Rapids, he has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Country Living, Victoria magazine and the Grand Rapids Press. He was also a guest on “Martha Stewart Living” and spoke on his success as an entrepreneur at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership conference in 1998. Additionally, he served 10 years on the board of directors and as editor of “Golden Glow of Christmas Past,” the international association of antique Christmas ornaments and decorations. He was also a strong community servant. His historic home was featured for the Heritage Hill Homes Tour in Grand Rapids, and he was a Children in Worship Leader for the Westminster Presbyterian Church.
Outstanding Michigan 4-H alumni, volunteers, youth, staff and partners were recognized Sept. 30 during the 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration in East Lansing. Awards presented at the event, which was hosted by Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan 4-H Foundation, are among Michigan 4-H’s highest honors for adults.
“It was great to come together to celebrate the remarkable individuals that make up our 4-H community,” said Julie Chapin, state 4-H leader for Michigan and director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs. “There is a rich history of 4-H in our state and there is a lot to celebrate, from our current youth to our outstanding alumni, and our dedicated volunteers to our commendable partners.”
The 4-H Citation Awards, the highest recognition presented by Michigan 4-H, recognizes significant contributions to Michigan 4-H programs. This year, the honor was awarded to the Michigan Community Service Commission and to Michael and Winifred Tate.
The Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society honors Michigan 4-H alumni whose professional leadership and community service reflect the ultimate outcome of 4-H membership. Inducted into the 2022 class were Gail R. Frahm, Saginaw; Larry J. Gould, Morenci; Jon D. Hausserman, Fenwick; L. Janel Horrocks-Boehmer, Williamston; Alice A. Kempf, Holton; Karen Kolberg Kietzer, Stevensville; Dian M. Liepe, Pullman; Sarah J. Pion, Cassopolis; Rachael N. Ramirez, Birch Run; Melissa A. Souva, Bronson; Schawna M. Thoma, Anchorage, Alaska; and Mary J. Yeomans, Midland.
The 4-H Salute to Excellence Awards honor remarkable 4-H volunteers who have contributed substantially to both their county and state 4-H programs. This year, the 2023 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award was presented to Michelle (Anders) McNamara of St. Joseph County and the 2023 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Kim Wright of Dickinson County.
The Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards, which recognize 4-H volunteers who exhibit excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership in agriculture-related areas, were presented in 2023 to Katheryn Bell of Oakland County, Marie Curell of Lapeer County, Melissa Barnett LaForest of Wayne County and Dione M. Oliver of Alpena County.
Also recognized at the event were the award honorees from 2019 through 2022. In 2022, honorees were David Cox of Jackson County, Vicki Rau of Ogemaw County, and Karen Scovill of Shiawassee County. In 2021, honorees were Dave Galer of Macomb County and Madaline Knight of Muskegon County. In 2020, honorees were Stacy Hough of Mecosta County and Cristie M. Warren of Washtenaw County. In 2019, honorees were Beth Clark of Shiawassee County, the late Vera Kempf of Newaygo County and Andrew Walker of Ogemaw County.
Fifty-year 4-H volunteers from 2021, 2022 and 2023 were recognized at the event, as well as winners of the 2023 MSU 4-H Scholarships and an MSU Extension 4-H staff member retiring in 2023.
“We’re grateful to continue this strong partnership of recognizing Michigan’s outstanding 4-H community through a day of celebration and camaraderie,” said Abbey Miller, director of the Michigan 4-H Foundation. “It’s always enjoyable to salute our honorees alongside our 4-H friends and family.”
The Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration was hosted by MSU Extension Associate Director Matt Shane, a Kent County 4-H alumnus and 2014 4-H Emerald Clover Society inductee. To learn more about previous honorees in each of these award categories, visit https://mi4hfdtn.org/4-h-emerald-awards/.
For youth interested in postsecondary education, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s flagship youth development program Michigan 4-H is helping to not only prepare youth for college success but also make it more affordable. In 2023, Michigan 4-H’ers who attended 4-H pre-college programs earned 100 percent of MSU’s Pre-College Scholarships.
“It’s really exciting to have Michigan 4-H’ers take home all 22 of the MSU Pre-College Scholarships that were awarded this year,” said Julie Chapin, state leader for Michigan 4-H and director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs. “We typically see our 4-H’ers take home a large portion of those scholarships each year but to have them all awarded to 4-H youth is unique.”
MSU Pre-College Scholarships are a $2,000 scholarship awarded to students in their first year as a degree-seeking student at MSU. To be eligible, youth must be in eighth, nineth, tenth or eleventh grade following their MSU pre-college program involvement and be nominated to represent their program before completing an application and essay.
Pre-college programs are offered by colleges or universities and provide high school students with a hands-on opportunity to explore a major or career, interact with faculty and oftentimes try out college life for a few days.Michigan 4-H’s signature pre-college programs include 4-H Exploration Days, a three-day camp where youth have the opportunity to experience campus life at MSU; 4-H Great Lakes and Natural Resources Camp, a seven-day camp where youth learn all about the Great Lakes ecosystem; 4-H Animal and Veterinary Science Camp, a four-day camp where youth explore the fields of animal and veterinary science; and 4-H Capitol Experience, a three-day conference where youth focus on civic engagement and public policy. Through their participation in these activities, youth are encouraged to attend postsecondary education as they receive real-life college experiences and explore potential career choices.
“Our 4-H pre-college programs are a great way for youth to explore an area of interest to them and learn more about the various careers that exist in that area,” continued Chapin. “We’re grateful to have so many opportunities specifically in 4-H that make it a little easier for youth to define their future.”
For more information about the Michigan 4-H program and its precollege opportunities, visit the Michigan 4-H website.