Photo: Front Row (L to R): Megan Loberg, and Amanda Schutz. Back Row (L to R): Dustin Renken, Amanda Keys, Eric Miller, and Molly Trausch
The Nebraska 4-H Youth Development is proud to announce the selection of five students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to serve the 2011 term as Nebraska 4-H Ambassadors. As a first year venture, the team will be working together to advocate for the 4-H program across the state. Ambassadors have a variety of responsibilities including speaking at 4-H events, meeting with Nebraska Legislative members, and networking with professionals in their interest areas. The Ambassador team may differ in their various experiences, but all share a unique passion for the 4-H program. By combining their different abilities, they will be working together to promote the 4-H program across Nebraska.
Amanda Keys is a freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln majoring in Agribusiness with Leadership and Communication and International Agriculture and Natural Resources Minors. She is from Elsmere, Nebraska and represents Blaine County. Amanda has been involved in 4-H for eleven years and has been active as a Nebraska 4-H Youth Curriculum Committee Member and National 4-H Congress and Conference Delegate. She has also participated in the Life Challenge Contest. In addition to 4-H, Amanda is also actively involved in campus activities. Some of her favorite activities include participating in the Justin Smith Morrill Scholars Program, the Agricultural Economics/Agribusiness Club and CASNR Week Program Council Member.
“Because 4-H has played such an influential role in my life, I am excited to continue developing the skills I will use after college while giving back to the 4-H program as a Nebraska 4-H Ambassador!”
Amanda Schutz, Nebraska 4-H Ambassador’s President, is a junior agricultural journalism major with an emphasis in advertising and public relations. She is from Arapahoe, Nebraska representing Furnas County. Amanda has been involved in 4-H for ten years. Amanda most enjoyed her livestock projects and received the Ak-Sar-Ben Grand Champion Market Beef award in 2008. Outside of 4-H Amanda is also involved in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow chapter, the Ag Sack Lunch Program of Nebraska, and is employed by the UNL Office of Admissions – Van Brunt Visitors Centers.
“I strongly believe that the 4-H program is one of the best youth programs in the nation. As a Nebraska 4-H Ambassador, I hope to be able to share my experiences and give back to an organization that was such a positive force in my life!”
Megan Loberg is a junior Family & Consumer Science Education major from Carroll, Nebraska and represents Wayne County. Megan has been in 4-H for 11 years being highly involved in Textile and Clothing activities and was a State Style Revue Competitor for five years for modeling and clothing construction. Megan also showed swine during her 4-H career. At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Megan is actively involved with Alpha Chi Omega, Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom, and The Caring Kitchen.
“I am looking forward to advocating for 4-H and hear and see how 4-H has positively affected others and hopefully show my passion for such an awesome organization.”
Eric Miller is a freshman Agribusiness & Animal Science major from Lyons, Nebraska representing Burt County. Eric has been involved in 4-H for eleven years. Highlighting his 4-H career include his responsibilities as Assistant Burt County 4-H Poultry Superintendent, 2009 Fremont 4-H Fair King, and 2010 National 4-H Congress Youth Delegate Advisor. Eric keeps busy on campus with FarmHouse Fraternity, Nebraska Beef Industry Scholars, and Nebraska Pork Producer’s Association Youth Mentoring Program.
“I grew up deeply involved in 4-H and believe that it is one of the best organizations available for youth to be involved in. My family has always been tied to agriculture. I look forward to my year as a Nebraska 4-H Ambassador because of the influence that I will have upon the program that gave me many opportunities during my youth. I have met many friends through 4-H and I want to give back to the 4-H program and help ensure the future success of 4-H in both the state and nation.”
Dustin Renken is a freshman animal science major from Bertrand, Nebraska representing Phelps and Dawson County. Dustin has been involved in 4-H for eleven years and has participated in National 4-H Congress as Conference Delegate. He also spends his time volunteering with community service activities and helping with local Therapeutic Riding Program. In 2008 & 2009 Dustin was awarded Ak-Sar-Ben Champion Senior Horeseman title. While at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Dustin enjoys his time on the Equestrian Team, participating in Block & Bridle, and playing intramural sports.
“4-H Ambassadors is an excellent connection of the leadership skills 4-H develops with today’s professional world. As an advocate of 4-H, I am excited to interact with youth and 4-H supporters across the State of Nebraska and share my enthusiasm and experiences for this outstanding program.”
Molly Trausch, Nebraska 4-H Ambassador’s Student Advisor, is a junior Horticulture-Entrepreneurship major from Minden, Nebraska representing Kearney County. Molly has been involved in the 4-H Program for 11 years and has participated in various 4-H activities. She is currently employed at the Nebraska 4-H Foundation organizing various fundraising events. Molly actively participates in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Horticulture Club, CASNR Week, and various volunteer activities.
