Oklahoma 4-H’ers were in the spotlight during the 104th State 4-H Roundup as they took center stage with workshops, contests, district rallies and more. More than 750 club members and adults gathered on the Oklahoma State University campus for the biggest 4-H event of the year on July 23-25.
This year’s theme was “Lights, Camera, Action, 4-H!”
“At State 4-H Roundup, our 4-H’ers are the stars of the show,” said Steve Beck, state 4-H program leader. “We bring together some of the most talented and dedicated youth in Oklahoma. Whether they’re being recognized for past achievements or discovering new opportunities, delegates leave better prepared to take on leadership roles in their local clubs.”
Attending from Lincoln County were Wyatt Plummer, Riley Williams, Kendall Williams, Molly Pruett, Seth Pruett, Alexa Ward, Analie Stoude, and Felicia Woods. While on campus, delegates participated in educational workshops, contests, dances and other events.
Workshop topics covered a range of interests, including leadership, growing vegetables, self-defense techniques, structural engineering, floral design, forensic science and sewing, to name a few.
Kendall Williams placed 2nd in the Intermediate Tractor Skills Contest, Alexa Ward placed Blue in the photography portion of the communications contest, ).
Roundup delegates also had opportunities to learn more about the OSU campus through various tours, including O’Brate Stadium, OSU’s Greenhouse Learning Center, The Botanic Garden at OSU and the Boone Pickens School of Geology. Pistol Pete’s Premier gave club members a chance to learn more about what OSU ouers for higher education.
Representatives from the National 4-H Council were also on campus as Oklahoma 4-H graduates signed Beyond Ready certificates and discussed their plans for after high school.
In keeping with a century-old tradition, State 4-H Roundup is a time to not only learn new things and make lifelong friends, but it’s also a time to recognize the hard work and achievements of club members. Record book and scholarship winners were announced at the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma Honor Night Assembly for their exceptional 4-H activities, and 4-H’ers were awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships thanks to the generous donors and supporters of 4-H youth development.
State 4-H Roundup is also the time when the youth development organization recognizes the best of the best with the announcement of the new inductees into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame, the state’s most prestigious award. This year’s inductees were Bridger Arrington from Logan County and Maggie Evans from Grady County.
Each received a $5,000 scholarship sponsored by Farm Credit Associations of Oklahoma. The announcement of the new inductees into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame was the culmination of the assembly.
Recognition at 4-H Roundup isn’t just for club members. It is also a time to recognize those who support the organization.
Former 4-H members were recognized as Outstanding 4-H Alumni, including Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur, Payne County, and Dea Rash, Payne County. Jim Rutledge, Payne County; Brenda Sidwell, Alfalfa County; and Lynda and the late Jerry Shoemake, Okmulgee County, were recognized as the 2025 State Partner in 4-H Award honorees.
Delegates took to the polls to elect the new slate of ovcers for the state leadership team. Serving on the executive team for the 2025-2026 year are Kate Sherrill, Pawnee County, president; Kate Wardlaw, Payne County, vice president; Rebecca Whiteley, McCurtain County, secretary; Joe Sharp, Garfield County, reporter; and Jake Vulgamore, Canadian County, recreation leader. Northeast District representatives are Donna Greenfield, Payne County; Killian Baker, Creek County; and Jimmy Ferguson, Logan County. Southeast District representatives are Dani McTague, Oklahoma County; Mason Luka, Pottawatomie County; and Ember Duuy, Pittsburg County. West District representatives are Avery Fisher, Blaine County; Claire Nease, Cotton County; and Zoye Gossen, Caddo County.
“Our county delegates always have a great time at State 4-H Roundup. The workshops, the contests and meeting new people are highlights that will inspire them to continue their involvement and become even better role models for the younger members,” said Ross Sestak Lincoln County 4-H educator.