2016 4-H University – Going for the Gold!

St. Mary Parish 4-H’ers traveled to the LSU Campus in Baton Rouge on June 21 in their quest for the gold in several state competitions. The delegation consisted of 33 4-H youth, five adult volunteers and three extension agents.
4-H University provides opportunities for youth to learn and experience new things, interact with one another, and explore campus life while discovering about possible educational and career options of their interest. Months before the event, youth spent countless hours studying and attending trainings to prepare for their competitions. These youth who took the opportunity to compete see their efforts rewarded by winning educational trips or advancing to national competitions to represent Louisiana. For those that do not compete in a competition, several classes are offered in the noncompetitive learning event called Clover College. Participants in Clover College received more than seven hours of hands-on learning over the three days spent on campus. The St. Mary Parish 4-H members who attended 4-H University learned how to take responsibility for their actions, think independently, and focus on personal and team goals. 4-H University creates new leaders, friendships and memories that will last for years to come.
The St. Mary Parish 4-H Program would like to acknowledge the St. Mary Parish Government for their constant support and the St. Mary Parish School Board for providing transportation for the trip. Special thanks to Mr. Clatter Polidore for going above and beyond his duties to drive the 4-H’ers and ensure the safety of the group.
Members who placed/won in their state competition included:
Photography: David Nugent, second place; and Kaeley Hill, Blue Ribbon Group.
Fashion Review — Creative Choice: Hannah Boudreaux, Blue Ribbon Group.
Public Speaking — Any Other: Ana-Michelle Mata, Blue Ribbon Group.
Automotive: Kane Boudreaux and Austin Champagne, third; and Champagne, Automotive — Individual, Blue Ribbon Group.
Dog Care: Trace Presley, fourth.
4-H Has Talent: Chris Ibert, Blue Ribbon Group.
4-H members participating in state competitions were:
Fishing Sports: Koby Boudreaux, Jacob Rogers, Austin Thibodeaux, Ashton Landry, McKaila Darden and Phillip Stirling.
ATV: Rhea Patureau.
Louisiana Chef: Rosemarie Colley and Olivia Williams.
4-H Has Talent: Jalacia Alexander.
Fashion Review — Casual Wear: Ashley Duhon.
Child Development: Kennedi Williams.
Public Speaking — Any Other: Madeline Williams.
Compact tractor: Joseph Duhon.
Clover College participants included:
Health Professions 101: So much more than Doctors and Nurses: Aiyana Brent, Brooke Driskell, Abby Dugas and Chloe Morris.
Horsemanship 101: Sarah Colon, Ebani Landry and Shelby Thibodeaux.
Forensics: The First 48: Jenna Duhon and Avery Magee.
Tracking Toxins: Investigations in Environmental Science: Jason Olivier.
Lights, Camera, Action!: Carl Taylor Stirling.
Adult volunteers included Kirk Champagne, Troy Duhon, Keri Hill, Kathy Landry and Ricki Lynn Patureau.
Participating Extension agents were Thu Bui, Adriana Drusini and Jimmy Flanagan.