Angie Barnard Executive Director at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | LinkedIn
Angie Barnard Executive Director at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | LinkedIn
Urbana, Ill. – The Illinois 4-H Horse Speaking contest recently concluded at the University of Illinois campus, where youth showcased their skills and knowledge in various categories. The event not only provided a platform for young participants to express themselves but also helped them in building self-confidence and communication abilities.
Among the winners were Mackenzie Sherman of Bureau County and Molly Wannemacher of Henry County, who secured first place in the Senior and Junior Formal Speech categories, respectively. Additionally, Abby Johnson of Knox County and Stephanie Niesen of DeWitt County excelled in the Junior and Senior Individual Presentation categories.
The Team Presentation categories also saw impressive performances, with Jasmine Frerkes and Joceyln Erickson of Mercer County winning in the Junior Division, and Annelise Veeder and Michaela Persico of Kendall County emerging victorious in the Senior Division.
Other winners included Nora Moore of Madison County in Junior Extemporaneous speaking, Hannah Wenzel of Saline County in Senior Extemporaneous speaking, and Callie Anne Gregg of Champaign County in Interpretative Reading.
The Illinois 4-H program, under the University of Illinois Extension, aims to nurture young leaders who are prepared for future challenges. The hands-on approach of 4-H equips youth with essential skills and encourages them to make a positive impact in their communities.
For more information about the Illinois 4-H program, interested individuals can reach out to Deb Hagstrom, University of Illinois Extension Specialist for Horses, at hagstrom@illinois.edu.
Writer: Carissa Nelson, Media Communications Manager, 4-H State Office, carissa@illinois.edu
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