The delegates are longtime 4-H members. They have demonstrated leadership, an understanding of 4-H programs and issues facing young people today. During the seven-day conference, the delegates will be asked to plan future programs for 4-Hers, she said.

Representing Kansas are Josey Heller, Post Rock District; Kristin Kay, Franklin County; Bryce Larson, Clay County; and David McCandless, Shawnee County.

In the selection process, Heller was recognized for her leadership, service and exceptional skills in working with younger 4-H club members. While Heller credits many of her growth and leadership opportunities to the fact that she lives in a small town that offers a lot of opportunities for willing volunteers, she also has served her 4-H club in leadership capacities for seven years and is active in school activities.

Heller cited personal integrity and character as important issues facing young people today. When asked about the benefits of being a 4-H member, she noted many, including the fact that she learned to make cakes. Although still a student, she runs a small, but successful, cake decorating business. Heller is a 10-year member of the Hunter 4-H Club.

Kay, a 10-year member of the Town & Country 4-H Club, also cited 4-H opportunities as growth and development experiences for her. She has recently been elected president of the newly-formed State 4-H Youth Council. In that role, she will help plan a statewide leadership forum scheduled later this year.

Leadership is not new to Kay – she has overseen the county style revue and developed a dog show clinic for first-year participants. She said that she particularly enjoys public speaking and earned an award for a citizenship speech. In her conference application, Kay noted that she had polished her public speaking skills during her 4-H years. She cites decision-making skills and peer pressure as key issues for young people.

Larson, who is an 11-year member of the Countryside Crusaders 4-H Club, credits the youth program with helping him become a more confident young adult. Larson is past president of the 4-H Junior Leaders. He noted that he particularly enjoyed working with younger 4-Hers, and that this experience also had helped him grow and mature. He cited peer pressure, learning to work with others, and career decisions as concerns for young people.

McCandless, who is an 11-year member of the Shunga Valley 4-H Club, has served as president of a 4-H club with more than 50 members. He has served his club in many capacities, but notes that he has grown through the leadership responsibilities.

McCandless credits his 4-H experiences with helping improve his communication skills. He is an accomplished public speaker and enjoys writing. As a 4-H member, McCandless was involved in the county-wide Team Pregnancy Prevention Program. The number of pregnancies decreased significantly, thanks in part to the fact that McCandless made more than 1,000 speeches on behalf of prevention efforts. The program later became a model for a national YWCA effort.

McCandless cites responsible citizenship as an issue for young people. In his conference application, he wrote that many teens seem to "get lost on the path to adulthood." He noted that he looks forward to participating in the national 4-H planning session, which he considers an opportunity to share ideas and build on them.

The Kansas delegation will be accompanied by Jo Ellen Arnold, Franklin County 4-H agent.

Educational 4-H programs are open to students ages seven and up. For more information, interested persons can contact their local K-State Research and Extension office.