Released: February 15, 2005

New 4-H Leader Selected

MANHATTAN, Kan. – A former Kansas 4-H member has been chosen to lead the state’s 4-H programs, which serve 140,000 children and teens annually through 4-H clubs, after-school, school enrichment and other programs.

Patricia A. “Pat” McNally moves into the state leader’s role after serving as interim state leader for eight months and as a state specialist for 12 years. McNally joined the state staff to develop volunteer efforts. She also has updated the 4-H camp program, developed a high adventure wilderness camping program, and expanded the photography project, which now is one of the most popular 4-H projects in the state.

Prior to joining the Kansas 4-H state staff, McNally served 4-H youth development programs and Extension services at Oklahoma State University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, and facilitated a pre-professional certification program for students seeking a career in nonprofit youth and human services at the University of Northern Iowa.

McNally traces her interest in education and youth development to her early experiences as a member of the Lone Eagle 4-H Club in Barber County. She earned a bachelor’s degree in vocational home economics education at Colorado State University, a master’s degree in home economics education and community services and a doctorate in higher education and administration, both from Oklahoma State University.

McNally said that work experiences in other states have expanded her perspective, yet noted that the symbol of 4-H – the green four-leaf clover – and a consistent educational effort to add value to youth development programs is the same in each state.

“Program delivery may vary, but 4-H youth development serves the land grant mission – educating the people,” she said.

McNally’s appointment as the state leader, Kansas 4-H, begins as the youth development organization is preparing for its Centennial Celebration, which is scheduled to begin in conjunction with the 2005 Kansas State Fair.

“Preparing for a second century of service – instilling leadership, citizenship and life skills through
4-H youth development – is a responsibility that Kansas 4-H, in cooperation with K-State Research and Extension and Kansas State University, takes to heart. Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders,” McNally said.

“Pat McNally brings a passion for youth development and commitment to excellence for Kansas 4-H,” said Daryl Buchholz, Associate Director for Extension. “K-State Research and Extension is pleased that she has accepted this leadership assignment.”

For more information on Kansas 4-H, contact the local or district K-State Research and Extension office or visit Extension’s Web site: www.oznet.ksu.edu  or 4-H’s Web site: www.kansas4-h.org .

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K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus, Manhattan.

Story by:
Nancy Peterson
nancyp@oznet.ksu.edu
K-State Research& Extension News