State 4-H Leadership Team

National 4-H Conference
(part of the State 4-H Leadership Team)

The National 4-H Conference is a working conference in which youth and adults—at the invitation of the Secretary of Agriculture – assist in the development of recommendations to help guide 4-H Youth Development Programs nationally and in their communities. This event brings together youth, volunteer leaders, state, and county Extension staff members from across the United States, its territories, and the Canadian Provinces.

Youth have the opportunity to contribute ideas and recommendations on various 4-H programs, policies and issues, while representing the Mississippi 4-H program. They will also have the opportunity to visit the Mississippi Congressional Delegation in Washington, DC.

Selection of National 4-H Conference

• Delegates county may submit as many applicants as the county extension staff signs.
• All perspective applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to the State 4-H Department by March 15.
• Candidates will be interviewed by a panel of judges, present a 3 - 5 minute speech on "What 4-H means to me in terms of ONE of the four (4) Essential Elements of 4-H: Independence, Mastery, Generosity, and Belonging" and participate in a reception in late spring. Two different dates will be provided to candidates with locations in the south and north part of Mississippi.

All applicants must

• be 15 - 18 years old on January 1, 2009
• not have been a previous delegate to National 4-H Conference.
• have been an active State 4-H Leadership Team member for at least one (1) year.
• have been active in their local 4-H club program.
• be able to miss one full week of school during the spring semester (typically March or April).
• be dependable, punctual and willing to make public appearances on behalf of 4-H.

Responsibilities

• If selected, must participate in:
• an orientation and complete pre-conference assignment.
• 4-H State Leadership Team trainings.
• 4-H Day at the Mississippi State Fair in Jackson.
• 4-H Legislative Day in Jackson.
• Follow through with any action plans determined during National 4-H Conference.
• Present a report at the annual State 4-H Advisory Council Meeting in Jackson in April.
• Assist with State 4-H Leadership Team Orientation and Training held in the summer. 
• Present a presentation or workshop during State 4-H Congress or other event(s) that would promote the conference.

Time Line

• March 15 - Cover Letter and resume due in the State 4-H Department.
• April 12 - Interviews, which include a speech and reception. Location to be announced.
• April 19 - Interviews, which include a speech and reception.  Location to be announced.
• May - Selection results will be announced at the final assembly during State 4-H Congress held at Mississippi State University.  A group photo will be taken at the conclusion of Congress.