4-H alums leading in ag, biz, tech, and edu named 4-H Luminaries

The National 4-H Council has named its 2025 class of 4-H Luminaries — a group of leaders from agriculture, business, technology, and education who will help support the organization’s goal of preparing young people for success in life and work.

These individuals will work with 4-H to raise awareness of the program’s efforts to equip youth with practical skills and experiences. They’ll also help expand access to programs aimed at reaching 10 million young people across the country.

Dr. Monique Chism, Under Secretary for Education at the Smithsonian Institution

Chism oversees the Smithsonian’s education programs and works to bring the institution’s learning resources into classrooms nationwide. She has experience as a teacher, state education administrator, and federal policymaker.

P.J. Haynie, Founder of Haynie Farms and Haynie Family Foods

Haynie is a fifth-generation farmer who manages grain operations in Virginia and Arkansas, growing crops such as rice, corn, wheat, soybeans, and canola. He also chairs the National Black Growers Council, which focuses on improving the productivity and sustainability of Black row crop farmers.

Haynie was featured in an AGDAILY article last month, which you can read here. 

Danielle Tiedt, Chief Marketing Officer at YouTube

Tiedt leads marketing for YouTube and has played a role in the platform’s growth across streaming, music, podcasts, and children’s content. Outside of work, she enjoys the arts, family time, and the outdoors.

Kirt Walker, CEO of Nationwide

Walker, who grew up on a Century Farm in Iowa, leads one of the country’s largest insurance and financial services companies. His rural upbringing shaped his interest in community and business leadership.

“This class of Luminaries shows the power of 4-H in giving young people the tools and skills to be Beyond Ready, paving their path to success,” said Jill Bramble, President & CEO of National 4-H Council. “We’re honored to recognize their visionary leadership in education, farming and technology which has transformed their field.”

The 2025 honorees join past 4-H Luminaries such as singer-songwriter Jennifer Nettles, journalist Craig Melvin, chef Carla Hall, and actor and producer Aubrey Plaza.