Georgia 4-H recognized the achievements of youth participants, adult leaders and community supporters during the annual 4-H State Congress, held July 23-26 at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia in Atlanta.

This weeklong capstone event featured state-level competition in Project Achievement and Leadership in Action for top 4-H’ers from across the state.

Champions of youth development honored

State leaders and organizations were recognized for their support of youth programming. State Sen. Larry Walker III, the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter, Sonya Jones and Lauren Clarkreceived top honors for their outstanding contributions to Georgia 4-H.

State Sen. Walker received the 4-H Green Jacket Award for his statewide support, including five years of hosting Georgia 4-H Day at the Capitol and leading the Citizenship Ceremony at State Council. He championed a $3 million appropriation for Rock Eagle 4-H Center cabin renovations and continues to advocate for 4-H and the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.

GNFA received the Friend of 4-H Award for more than 30 years of partnership. The organization supports agriculture and animal science education, hosts youth livestock shows and sponsors signature programs such as the Legislative Showdown and 4-H Day at the Fair.

Jones, Pulaski County Extension coordinator and 4-H agent, received the William H. Booth Award for her more than 22 years of leadership and innovation in youth programming, including inclusive programs and national award-winning initiatives.

Clark, Screven County 4-H agent, received the Ryles Rising Star Award for her impact within her first five years of service. Clark established a new horse program and poultry judging team and helped raise one of the highest donation totals in the state for the $4 for 4-H fundraiser.

“While the growth in participation is impressive, Lauren’s unwavering commitment to the youth and families of Screven County is what truly sets her apart,” said Lee Anna Deal, Southeast District 4-H program development coordinator.

Other Booth Award finalists included Meridith Meckel of Burke County, Jacqueline Nunn of Putnam County, Octavia Jackson of Lamar County, and the late Allie Griner of Gordon County.

Georgia 4-H State Leader Melanie Biersmith presents state Sen. Larry Walker with the 4-H Green Jacket Award. (Photo by Josie Smith)

Project Achievement and Leadership in Action winners named

More than 200 youth delegates competed in 49 Project Achievement areas, with the top scorer in each earning the title of Master 4-H’er.

Project Achievement is a cornerstone of Georgia 4-H. Students select a topic in areas such as agriculture, performing arts, engineering, communication, workforce preparation or human development, then research, create a presentation, complete community service projects and interview with subject-matter experts. To view a complete list of State Congress Project Achievement participants, visit georgia4h.org.

Eight finalists competed in the Leadership in Action contest, which challenges 4-H’ers to identify and address a community need.

Pulaski County 4-H’er Addy Winchester and Leila Rimes, a counselor at Rock Eagle 4-H Center, were named 2025 state Leadership in Action winners. Winchester created the “Mighty Showmanship” event for youth with disabilities to participate in a swine show with peer mentors. Rimes launched the “4-HER” project to increase access to menstrual health products, distributing more than 600 personal care packages in Southwest Georgia and installing supplies at 4-H centers.

Other finalists included Sheila Flores of Pickens County, Tyson Mathis of Oconee County, Melinda Kaye Mercer of Bleckley County, Prayushi Padhi of Cobb County, William Parish of Gordon County, and Aubrianna Stewart of Bryan County.

Special event Master 4-H’ers for the 2024–25 program year were honored, as were 4-H camping program leaders and center administrators. The 2025-26 Georgia 4-H Board of Directors was inducted, and the 2024-25 board was recognized for its service.

Support and sponsorship

State Congress is made possible by the support of organizations committed to positive youth development. Major sponsors include Georgia’s EMCs, the Georgia 4-H Foundation and the Georgia Master 4-H Club. Presenting sponsors include the Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation, Premium Peanut, Kelly Loeffler, Meta and Chemours.

Georgia 4-H empowers youth to become leaders by building life skills, forming positive relationships and engaging in community service. The program reaches hundreds of thousands of people annually through UGA Extension and 4-H centers.

For more information, visit georgia4h.org or contact your local UGA Extension office.