National 4-H appoints young alumni to advisor council

The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees recently elected five young adults to the 2025 Young Alumni Advisory Committee. These rising young stars will help guide the nation’s largest youth development organization and serve as ambassadors, advisors, and advocates for 4-H.

The 18- to 22-year-olds will serve a three-year term, leading alumni connections and donor engagement projects that spotlight how 4-H helps youth become Beyond Ready for career and life. Through the national Beyond Ready initiative, 4-H aims to reach ten million young people through positive youth development to ensure they are healthy, productive and engaged for their future.

YAAC members serve as national ambassadors who mentor current 4-H’ers, offer youth perspectives to the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees, and receive professional development to support their growth.

“These young, enthusiastic leaders bring a different perspective, leadership, and a commitment to service,” said Mark Berven, National 4-H Board Chair. “Their contributions, ideas, and experiences will help shape programs that prepare the next generation to thrive.”

Karli Abbott, University of Maryland Extension

A Maryland 4-H alum, Karli was in 4-H for 11 years. She is a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, earning her bachelor’s in environmental science. She plans to continue her work as a 4-H Program Assistant while pursuing her degree in Agriculture Law and Policy. As a 4-H member, Karli was involved in citizen, agriculture, and healthy living programs.

“4-H is where I found my passion for agriculture and public service. As a member of the Young Alumni Advisory Committee, I look forward to helping shape the future of this organization and using my voice to advocate for youth development.”

Diamond Jones, University of Arkansas Extension

An Arkansas 4-H alum, Diamond was in 4-H for eight years. She is a rising junior food science student on a pre-med track at the University of Arkansas. As a 4-H member, she was passionate about leadership, volunteering, and STEM-based programs.

“4-H taught me a deep understanding of leadership and service. I will uplift the voices of fellow young alumni and inspire them to recognize their potential to create lasting change within their communities.”

Megna Nayar, University of California Extension

A California 4-H alum with seven years of involvement, Megna is a rising junior at University of California, Santa Barbara majoring in economics and statistics/data science. As a 4-H member, Megna was involved in STEM, civic engagement and leadership programs.

“Through 4-H, I learned how to turn curiosity into meaningful impact. I’m honored to contribute to the strategic vision of 4-H and help young people discover their unique interests.”

Aneisha Sritharan, Iowa State University Extension

An Iowa 4-H alum with 11 years of involvement, Aneisha is a recent graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, majoring in molecular and cell biology with an emphasis in neurobiology. As a 4-H member, Aneisha was involved in communication, personal development, and civic engagement projects.

“4-H prepared me with the confidence to lead and the tools to serve with purpose. It helped me find my voice in advocacy, and now as a member of the Young Alumni Advisory Committee, I will promote the 4-H organization where every young person is empowered to make a meaningful impact.”

Luke Stephens, Auburn University Extension

An Alabama 4-H alum with 12 years of involvement, Luke is a rising junior at Coastal Alabama Community College, majoring in general studies. As a 4-H member, he was heavily involved in animal service, leadership, and citizen projects.

“4-H was influential in shaping my identity as a leader and advocate for agriculture. I’m eager to assist with programming that will help youth develop the skills, confidence, and vision they need to become leaders in their own right.”