Mountrail County 4-H’er Selected For The ND 4-H Ambassador Program
At this year’s 4-H Ambassador selections, Erika Littlefield was named one of the newest North Dakota 4-H ambassadors. Joining her in this honor are three other outstanding 4-H’ers from the eastern region of the state: Sawyer Wilhelmi from Ramsey County, Addilyn Groves from Grand Forks County, and Aubrey Delany from Cass County.
The 4-H Ambassador Program is a prestigious leadership initiative for youth ages 16-22. Ambassadors represent 4-H by utilizing their knowledge and leadership skills to educate, serve, and inspire. Selected individuals plan and assist with 4-H events while promoting the program statewide.
To become a 4-H Ambassador, candidates must navigate a competitive process held at the 4-H camp in Washburn. Opportunities to apply are available in both the fall and spring, with fall selections occurring during a special event and spring elections taking place during the Extension Youth Conference. This year, the four new ambassadors earned their spots during the fall selection.
The process begins with candidates submitting a detailed application, including reference letters and an account of their 4-H and life experiences. Applications are reviewed by a panel of judges before candidates commit to an in-person selection event. This rigorous event includes formal and informal interviews, a problem-solving exercise, and a group project. Judges consist of North Dakota 4-H Foundation members and 4-H Ambassador alumni.
Erika Littlefield shared her inspiration for joining the program and her aspirations as an ambassador. “I wanted to become an ambassador because of my mom and aunt. They both were ambassadors when they were younger, and hearing all of their amazing stories about this program is what pushed me to do it myself,” Erika said. “They described it as a family and lifelong ties you carry with you throughout your life. Another major reason I wanted to be an ambassador is because of the current ambassadors I’ve looked up to and admired throughout my years in 4-H.”
Looking to the future, Erika hopes to follow in her family’s footsteps and inspire young 4-H members. “I want to help better the youth of tomorrow and encourage more young 4-H’ers to try out for the ambassador program,” she said.
Congratulations to Erika Littlefield and her fellow ambassadors on this achievement, as they prepare to lead and inspire the next generation of North Dakota 4-H members.