Delaware 4-H members attend presidential inauguration
As Washington, D.C., began its transformation for Inauguration Day 2017, the patriotic colors of red, white and blue mixed with touches of green that sprouted around the nation's capital. Delaware 4-H sent 15 youth delegates and five adults who joined 500 youth members from 25 other states for the National 4-H Citizen Washington Focus: Presidential Inauguration conference. The Sussex 4-H delegates were Tanner LeCates, Ryan Cummings, Jenna Anger, Brittany Carpenter and Meredith Carey.
Along with their chaperones, the high school-aged youth took part in a weeklong program aimed to enrich young people's lives by providing enduring lessons of civic engagement, broadening their knowledge and understanding of the executive branch of government and developing a personal role in citizenship through service, civic education and engagement. The event combined leadership workshops, attendance at inauguration-related events and sightseeing.
"My favorite part was meeting 4-H members from around America and listening and sharing opinions on today's society," said Brittany Carpenter.
Rene Diaz, 4-H educator and after-school director, appreciated the opportunity for the teens to learn about their nation's government. "They are our future leaders," Diaz said. "The challenge for them is to take what they have learned and effect change in their local communities. Perhaps some will even be inspired to hold public office one day."
During the week, conference delegates had the opportunity to visit memorials, historic sites and museums in addition to experiencing Inauguration Day events as well as leadership sessions held at the National 4-H Center.
"The workshops were so interesting and helped me learn about the democratic process. A memory I made was learning about the president's cabinet. I learned all about the different positions and what they are," said Jenna Anger.
"My favorite part of this trip was going to the Newseum. It was really interesting to see how the media plays a role in government," said Meredith Carey.
For more information, go to https://extension.udel.edu/4h/.
