AMES, Iowa – Hannah Elliott of Anamosa is one of four youth delegates who will represent the state of Iowa at the National 4-H Conference at Chevy Chase, Md., March 28 to April 2.

Elliott, an 11-year 4-H member, is the daughter of Jill Elliott of Anamosa, Iowa. She is a senior in the Marion Home School Assistance Program. 

The National 4-H Conference, “Pathway to Progress,” will focus on environmental issues and how 4-H can help increase awareness and action, said Brenda Allen, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension 4-H youth specialist. “This conference brings top 4-H’ers from across the country to share ideas to strengthen the 4-H program at the state level and nationally.”

During the conference, delegates will participate in workshops led by fellow 4-H youth and adults, meet with their legislators and inform them about what is happening in the 4-H organization around the country. They also will have the chance to learn of other states’ 4-H successes and are asked to share these ideas with state staff upon return, feedback that usually is very positive.

“4-H has opened doors that I once thought impossible. Looking back on the last decade, I proudly graduate from 4-H’er to 4-H alumni where I will live out the 4-H spirit at school, work and in my community,” Elliott said.

A citizenship and child development project award winner, she attended National 4-H Congress and is a member of State 4-H Council, as well as her area council and local 4-H county council. Within her club Elliott served as president, vice president, secretary and historian.

The other youth delegates from Iowa are Megan Logan, 18, Sioux City; Clara Bergan, 18, Decorah; and Kelsie Cass, 18, Fontanelle. ISU Extension sends only four per year; youth must apply and be selected to attend.

The adult delegate is Dori Goble of Burlington, a youth field specialist for Des Moines County. She will be sponsored by Grinnell Reinsurance Mutual Foundation while the youth delegates will be sponsored by the Des Moines Register and Monsanto. 

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