4-H Involvement: 4-H Member from 2003-2014. Participated in numerous projects and activities including Food & Nutrition, Livestock, Photography, Public Speaking, Teen Leadership, Texas 4-H Tech Team, County 4-H Club President, District 4 Council President, Texas 4-H Council 2nd Vice President, Gold Star Winner, Danforth “I Dare You” Award, Texas 4-H Opportunity Scholarship Recipient, Texas 4-H Roundup Event Intern

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Program Analyst at the Farm Service Agency, works with many volunteer organizations in Rains, Gillespie, and Mason counties in various roles, volunteer with the Mason County 4-H Club where she serves as a project leader for their educational presentation and public speaking contests, advocate for local 4-H fundraising efforts. 

Brief summary of their impact and how the exemplify the 4-H motto: Taylor embodies “To Make the Best Better” in her personal and professional life. After graduation, she took the values she learned in 4-H to continue to serve those around her. During her time at Texas A&M University, she served as a Texas 4-H Roundup Intern, helping provide the same extraordinary experiences she had as a 4-H member to the participants. Taylor proudly shares with others the leadership skills and confidence she gained through her time in 4-H that helped her succeed in college and now as a business professional. She values and understands the importance of the 4-H program and the doors it opened for her that she never dreamed possible. Now in her role with the USDA Farm Service Agency, she uses those skills and her love for agriculture to support local farmers and ranchers. She never misses an opportunity to share her 4-H story with her clientele and the youth in Mason County.

4-H Involvement: Member from 2006-2015. Main projects and activities include Beef Cattle, 4-H Council, 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador, Leaders 4 Life, Photography, and Educational Presentations

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Agricultural Insurance Agent at Rollo Insurance, judges livestock shows across the nation, Licensed Auctioneer

Brief summary of their impact and how the exemplify the 4-H motto: Ethan makes the best better through several facets. He gives back as a livestock evaluator and show mentor. Ethan helps raise funds for the next generation of youth leaders by working as an auctioneer for county livestock shows. 

4-H Involvement: 4-H Member from 1999-2009. Main projects and activities included Breeding/Market Goats, Breeding/Market Swine, Clothing and Textiles, Food & Nutrition, Livestock Judging, Consumer Decision Making, 4-H Roundup, 4-H Exchange Program, Marion 4-H Club President and Guadalupe County 4-H President

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Executive Director of Guadalupe Valley Habitat for Humanity, Assistant Vice President for Habitat for Humanity San Antonio, member of Zonta International and the Seguin Rotary Club.

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Madeline graduated from Texas A&M with a B.S. in Agricultural Leadership and has established herself as a true servant leader in her community. She has worked in the nonprofit sector for the last decade with Habitat for Humanity, currently serving as Executive Director. In the last decade, she has worked with thousands of Aggie volunteers, traveled abroad through Global Village and served the communities of El Salvador, Chile, Guatemala, Zambia and Portugal. In her role in Seguin, she coordinates and motivates the community to be involved in her program. She instituted a “Build for Better Bash” last summer and hosted the second annual event this summer. Community members, business people, high school students and others all work together to build all the walls in one morning for two homes. She is engrained in our community through service in the Chamber of Commerce and Seguin Young Professionals. The Seguin Young Professionals organization recognized her service by awarding her the Rising Star Award and the Community Achievement Award. She also volunteers annually at the Guadalupe County Fair and Rodeo and serves as the chair for the Best Western Wear Contest. She does everything with a smile on her face and love in her heart. She is a servant leader. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 2003-2012. Main projects and activities included leadership, community service, shooting sports, beef, swine, food & nutrition, and fashion. Served as a Leon County 4-H Council officer, District 8 4-H Council officer, delegate at Texas 4-H Congress and represented Texas at the National Western Leaders 4 Life Contest. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: County Extension Agent in Leon County and volunteer at her church, Farm Bureau, and in the community. 

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Cassie loves incorporating service projects into all of her 4-H programming and curriculum enrichment programs and encourages her 4-H members and students to use their “hands to larger service.” Her favorite service project is volunteering at a local Veterans Appreciation Event. Over 800 people attend 2 events in the same day to serve and prepare lunch and dinner, make desserts and clean up. She loves watching the youth interact with those that have served our country, hearing their stories, and appreciating what they have sacrificed so we can live freely. Other service projects have included collection items. Visiting nursing homes, working with Meals on Wheels, and volunteering at local events around the country. She loves watching her youth use their “hands to larger service” and strives “to make the best better” in all of her youth programming as well as in all aspects of her daily life. She is the definition of a selfless leader. Cassie has touched thousands of lives in her home county and truly exemplifies the 4-H motto. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1994-2004. Main projects and activities include Leadership, Beef Cattle, Swine and serving on District 5 4-H Council

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: 4-H Youth Development County Extension Agent in Harrison County

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Jennifer started working as a 4-H program assistant in Harrison County in 2023 and became a CEA in November of 2024. The county’s 4-H program was struggling at the time. The youth in the community needed help with youth development both inside and outside of school. When Jennifer started, their 4-H Club consisted of 66 members who were not active. At the district roundup in 2023, their county only had two entries. Jennifer was able to turn the program around and now they have 190 members and had 86 entries at the District 5 Roundup and won sweepstakes. They also had 7 members qualify for state roundup and one member won state champion in her public speaking contest. The program continues to steadily grow and become more involved. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 2000-2010. Main projects and activities include Sheep, Consumer Decision making, Livestock Judging, Leadership, Public Speaking, Community Service, Swine, Goats, and Safety and Injury Prevention.

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Assistant Professor & Extension Specialist - 4-H Youth Development Agricultural Learning Strategies

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Dr. Goebel puts her head, heart, hands, and health into every avenue of her life. She has been instrumental in the progress of junior livestock projects in Texas and is the reason the Texas Validation System thrives today. She has impacted countless youth in monumental ways through Texas Youth Livestock and Agriculture. Personally, she stays involved in her family’s sheep operation in West Texas and, with her husband who also works in the agriculture industry, is raising their sons with the same values she was taught through 4-H. Dr. Goebel lives out the 4-H motto, gives back to the program, and is an example for youth across the nation. She is a prime example of what a 4-H alumni should be. 

4-H Involvement: Club President, Consumer Decision Making, Method Demonstration, Educational Presentation, Gold Star Award, District Council 2nd Vice President, Texas 4-H Council, California 4-H Youth Leadership Conference, Texas 4-H Congress, National 4-H Conference, National 4-H Congress, 4-H International Exchange Program

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Major Gift Officer at Broadway, Dallas

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Adam Hunter, a proud 4-H alum, exemplifies the 4-H motto “To Make the Best Better” through his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, education, and community leadership. With 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Adam has dedicated his career to building stronger, more equitable communities. As Major Gift Officer at Broadway Dallas, he has helped raise millions of dollars to support transformative arts education initiatives, including the High School Musical Theatre Awards (HSMTA), ConnecTix, and Dallas ISD Day - programs that provide equitable access to Broadway experiences and arts engagement for students across North Texas. He actively mentors young professionals, forges strategic corporate and philanthropic partnerships, and uplifts the next generation of creative leaders. In 2025, Adam was recognized as a Dallas Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree, a reflection of his impactful career and dedication to service. His journey is a true embodiment of head, heart, hands and health in action. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 2004-2013. Main projects and activities included commercial heifers, market steers, breeding heifers, livestock judging, beef quiz bowl, range & pasture identification and rife. Served as a club officer, county ambassador, District 11 Officer, and on Texas 4-H Council

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Assistant Fair Manager at the Washington County Fair in Brenham, Texas, previously worked for the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo and Extraco Events Center, Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications & Journalism, Master of Science in Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications from Texas A&M University 

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Madalynn Kainer exemplifies the 4-H motto through her unwavering commitment to youth development, agriculture and community service. As the Assistant Fair Manager at the Washington County Fair in Brenham, Texas, she plays a vital role in creating opportunities for young people to grow and succeed in 4-H and FFA programs. Her advocacy for youth programs is evident through her service as a 4-H competition judge and judging coach. Through her leadership, dedication and hands-on involvement, Madalynn continues to inspire and empower the next generation, truly making the best better every day. Outside of work, Madalynn is a dedicated advocate for youth, agriculture, and community programs. She serves on the Texas Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher Advisory Committee and is actively involved in Farm Bureau programming. She also volunteers with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and Texas FFA Ford Leadership Scholar Program, and serves as the events lead for the Washington County Young Professionals Organization. Madalynn has served as a judge for Texas 4-H Roundup and coached a 4-H meat judging team in McLennan County.

4-H Involvement: Member from 2001 - 2014. Main projects and activities include Texas 4-H Council Health & Safety Officer, Mission Possible Counselor, Beef Cattle Projects, Market Swine Projects, Food Challenge, and County, District and State Leadership Roles

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Pediatrician pursuing her fellowship in developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia - one of the best in the nation. She is extremely active in the medical community, pursuing research and other advocacy and leadership roles during her residency at UT Southwestern. 

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Mattie’s desire to “make the best better” through a career in developmental and behavioral pediatrics was inspired, in-part, by her participation as a counselor for the Texas 4-H Mission Possible Camp, providing an inclusive camp experience for youth with special needs. She is an advocate for all children with special needs and, as a physician, strives to connect with their parents and provide resources to help each and every child thrive, regardless of their diagnosis, health status, or abilities. As she begins her DBP fellowship at one of the nation’s leading children’s hospitals, she is receiving the best training possible to bring back to Texas and serve youth across the state. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1998-2009. Main projects and activities included Beef Cattle, Swine, Poultry, Public Speaking, Livestock Judging, Dairy Judging, Food & Nutrition, 2008-2009 Texas 4-H Council

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Retail Strategy Manager for Producers Co-op New Braunfels/Seguin/La Vernia

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Mandy-Jo has been passionate about the livestock industry from a very early age. Through 4-H, her passion began and carried into college at Texas Tech University where she was a member of judging teams and many organizations. While traveling across the state and country her eyes were opened to people that did not come from the same agricultural background and were not educated in the agriculture industry. Her position at Producers Co-op has given her the opportunity to meet consumers where they are. She loves getting to be a local source of information and knowledge to customers no matter their education level in the agriculture industry. She is committed to increasing the reach of Producers Co-op within south Texas and across the state. In addition, she interacts daily with people across the livestock industry, having daily contact with breeders, agents, ag teachers and students. She strives daily to support and encourage each part of the industry "to Make the Best Better". 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1996-2008. Texas 4-H President, Governor of State 4-H Congress, National and State Champion 4-H Meat Judging Team, National Qualifying and State Champion 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Team, National Congress Teen Entertainer, Share the Fun, Illustrated Talk, Food Show, showed lambs and pigs. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Gordon W. Davis Endowed Chair in Meat Judging and Associate Professor at West Texas A&M University; coach and mentors for WT students in a range of competitive events, including meat judging, meat science quiz bowl, meat animal evaluation, and wool judging; coaches 4-H, FFA, and collegiate teams; hosts and coordinates numerous 4-H events on the WT campus; Texas 4-H Roundup Buckle Donor; organizer of the Buff Branding Steer and Heifer Show in Amarillo; and Superintendent of the SALE Swine Skillathon.

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: As the Gordon W. Davis Chair in Meat Judging and Associate Professor at West Texas A&M University, she is deeply committed to student development both inside and outside the classroom. Loni strives to make the best better everyday with the students she interacts with at WT. She works to push students past what they believe they are capable of, so they realize what they can achieve. Many students who she recruits and interacts with may or may not have come from a strong 4-H background. She instills a level of excellence in them through the art of intercollegiate judging and evaluation teams. She works diligently to give students the best collegiate experience through experiences both inside and outside of the classroom. She also enjoys giving back to Texas 4-H by hosting numerous events and tours at WT. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 2010-2017. Main projects and activities included Leadership, Beef, TYLA Ambassador, Advocacy Ambassador, Photography, Food & Nutrition, Community Service, Animal Agriculture, Public Speaking, and Vet Science. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: District 12 4-H Specialist

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: As the District 12 4‑H Specialist, Grace Marshall has made a significant and lasting impact on the growth, visibility, and effectiveness of the 4‑H program in South Texas. Her leadership ensures that volunteers are well‑equipped and supported to deliver quality youth development programs across the district. Grace has developed and led dynamic volunteer training that not only meet compliance requirements but also inspire and motivate leaders. She has provided hands‑on guidance in best practices for project leadership, contest management, and youth mentorship, resulting in more confident and capable volunteer teams. Grace has successfully planned, organized, and executed a variety of District 12 4‑H contests, providing youth with opportunities to showcase their skills in public speaking, STEM, livestock, food & nutrition, and leadership.  Her meticulous planning and dedication ensure that each event runs smoothly and creates a positive experience for youth, families, and volunteers. Recognizing the power of storytelling, Grace has elevated the district’s visibility through engaging social media content, professional‑quality event promotions, and consistent, clear communication with stakeholders. These efforts have strengthened community awareness and participation in 4‑H programs. Grace has demonstrated exceptional professionalism in handling sensitive and complex situations. By providing fair, thoughtful, and proactive solutions, she has maintained trust, unity, and a positive culture within the 4‑H community.Grace exemplifies the 4‑H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” by constantly striving to enhance program quality, expand opportunities for youth, and empower volunteers. She leads with creativity, compassion, and a relentless commitment to helping young people develop into confident, capable leaders who will shape the future. 

4-H Involvement: 4-H Member for 10 years. Main projects and activities include Swine, Food & Nutrition, Fashion & Interior Design, Livestock Judging, Sheep, Veterinary Science, Leadership and Community Service

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: County Extension Agent

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: As a County Extension Agent, Casey exemplifies the 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” by continually striving to improve youth development programs, build strong community partnerships, and provide impactful educational opportunities. Through hands-on learning, leadership development, and service initiatives she helps 4-H members grow in confidence, skill and character. By modeling a commitment to excellence and lifelong learning, she inspires youth to challenge themselves, support one another, and contribute to their communities. 

4-H Involvement: Member for 10 years. Main projects and activities include Food and Nutrition, Food Show, Food Challenge, Fashion and Interior Design, Fashion Show, Poultry, Public Speaking, Swine, Sheep, Rabbits, and Leadership. Held numerous officer roles at the club, county, district and state levels and leadership roles in Texas 4-H Congress. She is a Gold Star Award Recipient, received Best Rookie Record Book, won Outstanding Junior and Intermediate Awards, and the Kleberg-Kennedy Golden Clover Award. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development in Tom Green County, serves as a contest superintendent for the Agricultural Product ID contests, District 7 4-H Council Advisor, Clemson University - Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management Ph.D program (focused on youth development)

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Hayley Meyer serves as the County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development in Tom Green County, where she has driven significant youth engagement since beginning in December 2018. Under her leadership, 4-H participation has grown, with youth earning state titles and advancing for national competitions. Her commitment to 4-H began well before her professional role. As a college student, Hayley worked for the Texas 4-H Office, supporting 4-H Roundup and various state-level contests. Hayley serves as a contest superintendent for the Agricultural Product ID contest at several major livestock shows across Texas, including Texas 4-H Roundup. She also plays a vital role in District 7 4-H, where she serves as the social media coordinator, chairs multiple district-level contests, and mentors young leaders as the District 7 Council Advisor. Hayley also serves as one half of Mo Betta DJs–keeping song requests straight, running the social media, and making sure every 4-H dance goes off without a hitch. Hayley is currently pursuing  a Ph.D at Clemson University in Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to professional growth and youth development. Her career reflects not only her passion for 4-H but also a deep investment in shaping the next generation of confident and capable young leaders. Hayley Meyer embodies the 4-H motto “To Make the Best Better” through every stage of her 4-H journey, from a standout youth member to a transformative professional leader. Whether mentoring youth, coordinating district contests, managing social media outreach, or serving as a contest superintendent at major state events, Hayley’s work consistently raises the bar. Hayley’s lifelong dedication, her passion for helping young people succeed, and her continuous efforts to elevate 4-H programming make her a shining example of what it means to “Make the Best Better.”

4-H Involvement: Member from 2011-2021

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Events and Projects Specialist for Brookshire’s Grocery Company, Board Member of Kilgore’s Agricultural Support Hometeam

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Kace is a recent Agricultural Communications graduate from Tarleton State University. He currently serves as an Events and Projects Specialist for Brookshire’s Grocery Company, where he helps direct the planning and execution of company events, both community outreach and internal events. He also assists the BGC Community Involvement and Communications teams in order to ensure a smooth and efficient process when promoting the BGC company values. Kace also serves as a board member of Kilgore’s Agricultural Support Hometeam - a buyer’s group he helped form that supports local 4-H and FFA members by raising funds to help purchase livestock projects at local shows. Kace is an active member in his community who is not afraid to step up when needed. He uses skills he developed through his time as an officer in his 4-H Club to not only directly impact the people he serves through his job but also the youth in his community.

4-H Involvement: Member from 2003-2015

Nominee's Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: President of Abilene Southwest Rotary Club, Board Member of Pregnancy Resources of Abilene, District Deputy of the Knights of Columbus, Former Treasurer and long-time member of the Hispanic Leadership Council of Abilene, Accountant and Grants Team Supervisor for the City of Abilene

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Kevin has a passion for getting involved in his community and building relationships with others around him. He is quick to advocate for 4-H to young people as well as pass on what he learns to others. He has demonstrated his skill in developing community projects, growing non-profits and giving back to his community. 

4-H  Involvement: Member from 1998-2008. His main projects and activities included livestock judging, archery, and showing steers, heifers, and lambs. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: County Extension Agent in Grimes County

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Matthew Pfeifer consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that high-quality and relevant programs are planned and delivered for both producers and 4-H members. He is often the first to arrive and the last to leave an event, demonstrating his deep commitment to the success of every program. Matt’s genuine care for people and his desire to create the best possible experience for participants is evident in all that he does. He never hesitates to ask what needs to be done and is always ready to step in and assist wherever needed. In September 2021, Matt transitioned from his role in the DAR unit for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to the role of County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development in Brazos County. In February 2025, Matt took on a new challenge as the Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent in Grimes County. Matt’s unwavering dedication to his profession—and even more importantly, to his family—is truly commendable and serves as a model for others in Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and the Texas 4-H Youth Development Program. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1999-2008. District 2 4-H Council Vice President, State 4-H Council 1st Vice President, 2005 State 4-H Food Show Winner, 2007 State 4-H Beef Record Book Winner, 2008 State 4-H Roundup Champion Livestock Judging Team Member and Overall High Individual, exhibitor of numerous livestock projects (steers, heifers, pigs) at local, regional, state and national levels

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: CEO of Amarillo Tri-State Exposition/Tri-State Fair & Rodeo, current Secretary of Texas Association of Fairs & Events Association, current Education Committee Chair of North American Livestock Show & Rodeo Manager’s Association, Board Member of Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of Amarillo Convention & Visitors Bureau, Board Member of Randall County Texas Farm Bureau, Member of Saint Stephen Methodist Church

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Brady has sought to continue making  “the best better” since exiting the 4-H program in 2008. Every professional role he’s assumed, he has leaned on the values instilled in him during his time in 4-H. Brady learned team work, critical thinking and communication skills through many 4-H endeavors and those skills have served him well as he occupied roles at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Alabama Farmers Federation, and currently as the CEO of the Amarillo Tri-State Exposition/Tri-State Fair & Rodeo. Each of these roles have offered a strong connection to 4-H, allowing him to give back to a program that gave so much to him. In his current role as CEO, Brady has expanded the number of youth contests at the Tri-State Fair & Rodeo by adding events like Food Challenge, Archery, Consumer Decision Making, Public Speaking, and Livestock & Horse Quiz Bowl, and Vet Science Skillathon. His team recently organized the creation of a new $25,000 Ambassador Scholarship to be given to one high-school junior in the Texas Panhandle. Finally, under his leadership, the dream of starting a new livestock show for exhibitors across the country has come to reality in the Amarillo Classic Junior Stock Show which debuted in 2024.

4-H Involvement: Member from 2006-2016. Main projects and activities included Swine, Livestock Judging, Leadership, Community Service, Texas 4-H Council 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: Assistant Professor of Swine Nutrition and State Extension Swine Specialist at South Dakota State University, a member of the South Dakota Pork Producers Council, volunteer for 4-H and FFA programs, volunteer at jackpot livestock shows and livestock judging contests, oversaw the recent South Dakota Swine Summit–a youth event focused on developing participants for future careers in the swine industry

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Giving back is something that was instilled in Rafe from an early age. Growing up in the 4-H program, the 4 H’s – head, heart, hands, and health, – were a huge part of his life. During his undergrad at Texas Tech University, he gave back to the community through his involvement in the Terry Scholar Organization, multiple judging teams, and other student organizations in the Department of Animal Science.  During graduate school at Kansas State University, Rafe was very involved in the Kansas State 4-H Program through volunteering at state events, local livestock shows and numerous youth educational events. He received an assistantship as a master’s student and later a fellowship as a PhD student. He has a passion for pouring into others the way so many have poured into him. While at Kansas State University, his research in swine production helped discover more efficient ways to grow healthy pork which helps feed the world’s population. Now as an Assistant Professor and Swine Nutritionist in South Dakota, he is still involved and instrumental in planning new activities for youth and is contributing to solving the issues with feeding our world. 

4-H Involvement: 4-H Member for 10 years. Main projects and activities included leadership positions at the local, district, and state levels, commercial steers, showing barrows and gilts, Food Show, Food Challenge, and Soil & Crop Sciences. Recipient of the Silver Star, Bronze Star. “I Dare You” and Gold Star Awards.

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: District 2 4-H Specialist, past County Extension Agent for 4-H & Youth Development in Potter County, past Program Specialist at the Texas 4-H Conference Center. 

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Cari has dedicated her entire career to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to thrive–and she does it all with a servant’s heart and a contagious energy that makes everyone around her better. She lives out the 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” not just in her words but in her daily actions. Whether she’s running a district-wide event, encouraging a first-year member, or stepping in to help with a project that isn’t even in her job description, Cari shows up–tireslessly, selflessly, and with genuine joy. She has served with distinction on the TAE4-HYDP Association Board as President-Elect, President, and Past President, championing the growth and development of youth professionals across the state. But her impact doesn't stop here, Cari is the kind of person who says “yes” before asking what’s in it for her. She consistently goes out of her way to support programs, coworkers, and counties in need–even when it means working evenings or weekends, or taking one more thing “just because it’s for the kids.” True to her belief in lifelong learning, Cari is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership through Tarleton State University. She’s constantly seeking ways to grow, lead by example and make our organization–and the youth we serve–better. Cari doesn’t just believe in the power of 4-H. She lives it. And through her leadership, mentorship, and passion, she’s making a lasting difference–one youth, one program, and one helping hand at a time. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1998–2007. Main projects and activities included showing goats, Lamb and Goat Club, Horse Club, Record Book, Horse project, 4-H Gold Star Award

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: President of Sandel Operating, Helped create Flowco Production Solutions, Deacon at local church, 4-H Horse Club Leader

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Nathan's journey exemplifies the heart of 4-H—head, heart, hands, and health—through his enduring commitment to personal growth, community involvement, and professional excellence. His story is one of resilience, work ethic, and character, deeply rooted in his 4-H upbringing. After graduating from Huntsville High School, Nathan attended Abilene Christian University and later earned a degree in Construction Management from Sam Houston State University. His commitment to hard work followed him into adulthood, as he quickly transitioned into the oil and gas industry, starting at PCS. Nathan’s natural leadership and entrepreneurial spirit helped him in being a part of creating a new company called Flowco, a Houston-based company that later went public. Today, he serves as President of Sandel Operating, bringing his expertise full circle to help others in the field succeed. Despite his professional success, Nathan has remained grounded in his community and values. He currently serves as a Deacon at his local church, where he oversees the children’s ministry — investing in the next generation with the same care and leadership that 4-H fostered in him. As a 4-H Horse Club leader, Nathan continues to mentor youth, passing down the same lessons that shaped him. Nathan is more than a product of 4-H. He is a living example of what 4-H stands for. He embodies lifelong learning, servant leadership, and a commitment to community. His story is still unfolding, but his roots remain strong on the organization that helped shape him. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 1998-2008. Main projects and activities included Citizenship and Civic Education, Dog Care, Food and Nutrition, Swine, Consumer Education, Public Speaking, Clothing, Leadership, and Recreation. Gold Star Winner and State Record Book WInner. Scholarship Recipient of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarship and the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo Scholarship. 

Nominee’s Current Role, Career, or Community Involvement: 4-H Leader and volunteer, prior years Treasurer of County Livestock Show Board, County Swine Stockshow Assistant Superintendent, Stamford Chamber of Commerce Board President, Stamford Fall Festival Co-Chair, Haskell Rotary Club Member and flag route captain, Haskell Young Homemakers member, Better Stamford School Supply Drive Founder, St. John’s Community Christmas Dinner volunteer, prior years Big Country Veterans Board Secretary, Loan Officer and Branch Manager for Central Texas Farm Credit in Haskell. 

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Kassidy is a 4-H Leader, leads a foods group, and has taught food challenge teams. She assists with consumer education contests and  judges multiple county 4-H contests. Kassidy truly represents “Making the best Better” by being involved in her community. She is very passionate about giving back. When she moved to Stamford, she realized they did not have a community school supply drive. She quickly organized the “Better Stamford School Drive” and has grown it to raise $30,000 in school supplies. She now has a board to make sure the community event continues. Kassidy learned leadership skills in 4-H and has used them throughout her adult life to be active in civic organizations and to be an active volunteer. She especially enjoys volunteering for 4-H events. Kassidy has learned to pledge her heart, hands, head and health to her community, country, and world. By being a civic leader and community volunteer she is making good on this pledge. She continues to make the best better by giving back to the 4-H program that she feels gave her the tools to be successful in life. 

4-H Involvement: Member from 2008-2016. Main projects and activities include Beef Cattle, Goats, Lambs, Public Speaking, Record Book; Community Service and Leadership; Texas 4-H Youth Livestock Ambassador; Texas 4-H Council; represented Texas 4-H in Uruguay and Argentina; held various leadership positions at the club, county and district levels

Nominee's Current Role, Career or Community Involvement: Former Competitive Events Manager at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo, Committee member of the Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show GALA, volunteer reasons judge for numerous livestock judging contests

Brief summary of their impact and how they exemplify the 4-H motto: Morgan is a true champion for Texas 4-H youth. Through her official workplace role, Morgan supports and challenges youth to be their best every day. Additionally, she serves as a mentor and coach for countless 4-H members across the state of Texas. Morgan exemplifies honor and character as she executes her day job and through her volunteer work. Morgan works hard to improve contests and experiences for Texas 4-H members. She is a strong motivator for young people moving from their 4-H roles into college and beyond. Morgan’s time in 4-H instilled in her values of hard work and always striving to be the best you can be. She is a true role model for 4-Hers to make the best better!