From hippology to parliamentary procedure challenges, Colorado 4-Hers scaled them all during their state conference on the Colorado State University campus in June.
Two days of honing their skills through preparatory coaching resulted in completion of livestock judging, food and nutrition, presentation and more.
400 4-Hers
Close to 400 high school-aged 4-Hers spend time on campus each year. They make new friends, bond over shared interests, step into leadership roles, and get a taste of life living for several days in CSU residence halls.
The timing of the annual event precedes local county fairs, when the students will again present their best work for judging.
Other events included a recognition program that highlighted scholarship recipients. New this year was the presentation of CSU scholarships to 29 students from throughout the state. The students’ intended majors range from sociology and computer engineering to pre-optometry and veterinary and animal sciences.
4-H Hall of Fame
This year’s state conference also included the induction into the Colorado 4-H Hall of Fame of Brett Kaysen.
Kaysen, who grew up on a family farm in Adams County, is now one of the most sought-after livestock evaluators in the world. In addition, he is a nationally known speaker on leadership and personal development regarding the livestock industry and related topics.
“I believe that what makes 4-H so powerful is the mentoring that takes place between 4-H members,” said Kaysen. “Additionally, the volunteer leaders and coaches I had throughout my 4-H career were a key influence that has shaped the person I am today.”
