[Image: 4-H University]Nearly 1,550 4-H’ers participated in the 95th annual gathering of young people who participated in scores of activities that are part of the three-day event known as 4-H University. 4-H U is a highlight of the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H youth development program.
More than 2,000 people in all – including 4-H’ers, adult leaders, volunteers, parents and friends – participated in all or part of 4-H University, which also included the election of state 4-H officers and district representatives.
Nine LaSalle 4-H'ers attended the event along with three adult volunteer leaders and one agent.
The competition came in areas ranging from agricultural demonstrations to wildlife habitat judging and from career preparation to consumer decision making.
For those who chose not to participate in direct competition, 4-H University included Clover College – a group of educational activities on topics ranging from Internet safety to Bioengineering. Other topics included dressing appropriately, careers in veterinary medicine, prevention education, participating in service programs, exploring the world of sports and learning about Louisiana’s unique environment.
4-H University is one of the aspects of the LSU AgCenter’s 4-H Club program. 4-H is the nationwide youth development program of the U.S. land-grant university system to teach young people valuable life skills by involving them in educational projects and service activities. Throughout its history the program has sought to help young people and their families improve their quality of life.
“Louisiana 4-H is a one-of-a-kind program made up of outstanding young people from across our state,” said LSU AgCenter Vice Chancellor Paul Coreil. “We’re glad to provide them this annual opportunity to visit the state’s flagship university, to meet new people and to test their knowledge and skills – all while having fun.”