4-H Leadership Academy Welcomes Roth Scholars
The 4-H Leadership Academy has welcomed its second class of Roth Scholars – 25 young leaders from Alabama, Idaho, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Ohio – who are beginning a two-year leadership experience. Meeker County 4H member Avery Joyer is among this exclusive group of future leaders, and attended the Leadership Academy in Washington, D.C.
Through hands-on projects, mentorship and leadership development, Roth Scholars move from ideas to action. Each scholar will explore a real challenge in their community and develop a research-based project that builds in communication, problem-solving, collaboration and community engagement.
National 4H Council Chief Development & Marketing Officer Heather Elliott says the 4H Leadership Academy gives young people the opportunity to explore complex issues, learn from experts and turn ideas into action. She says together with their land-grant university partners, Roth Scholars are being prepared to be “beyond ready” by equipping them with the confidence, experiences and relationships they’ll carry into college, careers and a lifetime of leadership.
Founded through the vision and generosity of entrepreneur and philanthropist Joel Roth, the 4H Leadership Academy reflects his belief that young people are capable of solving society’s most pressing challenges when given opportunities to learn, lead and serve. Although Roth passed away in 2025, his vision continues through every class of scholars who step forward to strengthen their communities through leadership and service.
As the inaugural class concluded its Leadership Academy experience, scholars are leaving a lasting mark in communities across the country. Their projects included:
●Conducting career exploration events for youth in rural areas
●Developing school-based therapy dog programs to support youth mental health
●Expanding STEM learning opportunities for English language learners
●Designing accessible coloring books for children with disabilities
●Building community partnership to address food insecurity
To learn more about 4-H in Meeker County, contact 4-H Extension Educator Cassidy Martin at 320-693-5275. You can also get more information at 4-H.umn.edu.
