West Feliciana Parish 4-H members recently returned from a week at LSU, where they participated in the annual Louisiana 4-H University and Clover College. The event, held each June, brings together youth from across the state for a unique combination of academic competition, hands-on learning, and a taste of college life.
West Feliciana Parish was represented by 23 students, a news release said. Of those, 20 competed in contests while three students chose to participate in Clover College, a non-competitive educational program designed to immerse youth in specific areas of interest.
West Feliciana participants earned top honors in Tiger Tank, visual arts, fashion “It’s Sew You,” fashion upcycled, and Vet Set Geaux. Two seniors from West Feliciana won Louisiana 4-H scholarships.
The parish earned third place in the state for the Service Learning Award, Act to Impact Challenge, and Randi K. Patin was honored as Administrative Coordinator of the Year.
Eight West Feliciana 4-H members were appointed to statewide leadership boards including Food and Fitness, Wetland Ambassadors, Equine Ambassadors and STEM.
4-H University offers more than 40 competitive events, allowing participants to showcase skills and knowledge in diverse subject areas such as plant science, fashion, tractor operation, wildlife habitat judging, and animal science.
Clover College provides several educational tracks where students can focus deeply on topics without the pressure of competition. West Feliciana participants in Clover College explored LSU Athletics, horticulture, and how to become a “dog”tor at the LSU Veterinary School of Medicine.
4-H University provides a college-type experience: Students stay in LSU dormitories, dine on campus, and navigate daily life much like college students.
For information about 4-H University or how to get involved in 4-H programs in West Feliciana Parish, contact Katlin Gordon at (225) 635-3614 or klucas@agcenter.lsu.edu.