Chambana Sun

The Illinois 4-H Foundation celebrated the accomplishments of its members by awarding $45,000 in scholarships at the Illinois 4-H Celebration of Excellence on April 6. The event took place at the Hilton Garden Inn in Champaign, Illinois.

Melissa Irwin, University of Illinois Extension's 4-H club support and awards associate, expressed enthusiasm about the scholarship opportunities. "We are thrilled to offer these scholarship opportunities to empower our 4-H youth in pursuing their dreams and broadening their knowledge," she stated.

Scholarships were awarded to up to five members across nine categories based on merit and a demonstrated standard of excellence. Each recipient received a $1,000 scholarship.

In the Animal Sciences category, winners included Olivia Shike from Champaign County and others. This award was sponsored by several donors including Dave & Lisa McMurtry.

The Civil Engagement & Global Living category recognized Jenna Clemmons from Champaign County among others, with sponsorship from Nann Armstrong and other contributors.

Winners in Creative & Performing Arts & Communications included Hailey Bohn from Bond County. Sponsors for this award included Dr. Janice Seitz.

The Gardening, Ag, and Food Systems award was given to individuals such as Dylan Zwilling from Champaign County. Sponsors included Andy Edwards and others.

Healthy Living & Nutrition winners like Hayley Lair from Adams County received support from sponsors such as Pat Clickener.

Leadership awards went to Andrea Schaffnit from Adams County among others, with sponsors like Dave & Lisa McMurtry contributing.

Natural Resources & Environmental Science honorees included Sydney Gragert from Livingston County. Art & Sharon Tenhouse were among the sponsors for this award.

The Personal Growth category recognized Lilliana Bernabei from LaSalle County and was sponsored by Pat Clickener among others.

STEM & Robotics awards went to Kiersten Lampe from Clinton County among others. Sponsors included Art & Sharon Tenhouse and other supporters.

Irwin highlighted the impact of these scholarships: "Through their remarkable engagement in 4-H leadership, community service, and project work, they have gained invaluable experiences that will propel them toward success at the next level."

Further information about the ceremony can be found on the 4-H YouTube channel and their Awards and Scholarships website.

Illinois 4-H is a youth development program under University of Illinois Extension focused on empowering young people through hands-on learning experiences. Research indicates that participants are more likely to contribute positively to their communities and engage in healthy lifestyle choices compared to peers outside the program.