Buckingham Boosters 4-H Club member Rachael Murty pictured at the 2025 Iowa State Fair. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

AMES – Iowa 4-H members demonstrated leadership, communication and career-readiness skills during the annual State 4-H Recognition Day interviews held in late March at Iowa State University and virtually across the state.

Senior 4-H members in grades 9-12 interviewed for state and national leadership opportunities, trips and project-area awards. The event gives youth hands-on experience preparing resumes, cover letters and interview skills that can benefit them in future education and career opportunities.

More than 100 volunteers helped review over 200 applications and conduct interviews during the statewide event

Fifty youth were selected across the state to receive project area awards. These young people have demonstrated mastery, leadership, communication and service in a specific project area throughout their 4-H career. Winners will receive an Iowa 4-H Foundation cash award of $125, supported by project area award sponsors Glen and Mary Jo Mente.

Among the 2026 honorees was Tama County 4-H member Rachael Murty, who received a dog project award. Rachael is a junior at North Tama High School and a member of the Buckingham Boosters 4-H Club. She has participated in the dog project at the Tama County Fair since she was in fourth grade and exhibits dogs at the Iowa State Fair.

Congratulations to Rachael and all the Iowa 4-H members recognized for their outstanding achievements and dedication.

For more information on Iowa 4-H State Recognition Day, contact 4hrecognitionday@iastate.edu.