The new State 4-H Youth Council’s efforts will be directed towards planning educational and skill-building activities for 4-H members in the state, including a three-day Leadership Forum at Rock Springs 4-H Center in December, said Lindy Lindquist, associate 4-H specialist. Lindquist and Beth Hinshaw, K-State Research and Extension South Central area 4-H specialist, who is headquartered in Hutchinson, Kan., are serving as advisors to the leadership council.

The officers who will lead the student planning and leadership group are:

President: Kristin Kay, from Franklin County;

Vice-President: Mike Vogt, from McPherson County;

Governance Chair: Raudy Bearden, from Marshall County;

Secretary: Lisa Pryor, from Riley County;

Finance chair: Walinda Arnett, from Barber County;

Recognition Chair: Karen Silvers, from Miami County;

Public Relations Chair: Janessa Meeks, from Finney County;

Programs Chair: Dale Jessup, from Phillips County;

Community Service Chair: CandiSu Copeland, from Ford County;

Technology Chair: Jason Krafft, from Phillips County.

Former delegates to the National 4-H Conference – Dezarae Allbritton, from Geary County; Darcie Brownback, from Osage County; Erin Riffey, from Pratt County; Lucas Shivers, from Clay County; and Joseph Thomas, Franklin County – also will contribute to the new Youth Council’s efforts.

"Students can bring new ideas to the table. They know what’s happening with their peers and can spot opportunities for skill-building and growth. We look forward to working with them in this new way," Lindquist said.

For more information on the State 4-H Youth Council, interested persons may contact the student officers, or call Lindquist at 785-532-5800 or Hinshaw at 316-663-5491.