AMES, Iowa – Jessica Stakey of Hamilton County received a state 4-H dog project award that includes a $100 savings bond from the Mary Jo & Glen Mente Endowment. Stakey, 15, is the daughter of Doran and Cathy Stakey of Kamrar.

During her seven years in 4-H, Stakey has completed several major projects including dog, swine, food and nutrition, vet science and communication. She has received county-level awards in dog, communication and swine. She has been president, secretary, treasurer and historian of her 4-H club. Stakey was awarded outstanding historian and secretary of her club. She has served on her county 4-H council and has participated in the Iowa 4-H Youth Conference.

“4-H has taught me so many useful skills in communication, like talking in front of lage groups,” said Stakey. “It has helped my confidence and now I am more willing to speak up and take leadership roles. My experiences in 4-H have also encouraged me to pursue a career in veterinary science.”

Stakey is a sophomore at South Hamilton High School.

For more information about 4-H, contact the Hamilton County office of Iowa State University (ISU) Extension. 4-H in Iowa is administered through the ISU Extension 4-H Youth Development program and headquartered on the ISU campus in Ames.

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