Each month, we highlight an Ohio 4-H alum who has an amazing story to share—from their personal experience in 4-H, to how they have given back to the program. This month, we feature Taylor Myers, a proud alumnus of Monroe County 4-H who currently works as the senior managing director of government affairs and policy with Teach For America.
Myers got his start in 4-H thanks to encouragement from his mom. “My mom is passionate about every child attaining an excellent education and understood the role 4-H plays in youth development,” said Myers. “That’s why she encouraged me and my four younger siblings to participate in 4-H.”
He joined the County Liners 4-H Club and quickly became an involved member, serving as the secretary, treasurer, and vice president of his club during his eight years as a 4-H’er. In addition to developing important leadership skills, Myers gained new 
knowledge in areas like money management, creative writing, and cooking thanks to his 4-H projects.
While 4-H meant lots of exciting experiences and opportunities for Myers, his favorite part was always the Monroe County Fair. “I enjoyed working the fair booth, eating fried foods, swirling around on carnival rides, and spending time with friends and family,” he said. “The county fair was always an opportunity to celebrate our community, grow our economy, and embrace our people’s deep connection to agriculture.”
In addition to his mom, Myers had a number of mentors who positively impacted his 4-H experience, including Bruce Zimmer, former Monroe County 4-H educator. “Bruce taught me that strong leaders can be quiet, kind, and measured. Moreover, observing his leadership of Monroe County’s Extension office demonstrated how to be an effective educator outside of the classroom.”
4-H volunteers Darla Hossman, Marilyn Starr Marley, and Dyan Kinney also made a difference in Myers’ life through their leadership of, and service to, the County Liners 4-H Club. “I have fond memories of time spent with them and my fellow 4-H’ers 
at Grizzle Ridge Arena for meetings. I became a better citizen because of the programming they structured for us, the coaching they gave us, and the pride they instilled in us.”
Thanks to 4-H and these important mentors, Myers has become a leader who is focused on ensuring every child can attain an excellent education. His experiences in 4-H helped him understand the importance of whole-child development through opportunities that exist outside the walls of a school building, and these teachings still inform his advocacy work and education philosophy.
“From time management and problem-solving, to perseverance and communications, 4-H developed my abilities, and I use these skills every day,” said Myers. “I have to manage my time well, demonstrate resilience, and adapt to an ever-changing landscape.”
After graduating high school, Myers attended Marietta College with the intention of becoming a high school social studies teacher, but he quickly discovered his interest in campaign politics and education policy.
He went on to serve as a staff member on two political campaigns, teach high school history, work as an admissions counselor for Johns Hopkins University, and work in government relations for the Boys & Girls Clubs in Ohio before taking on his current role with Teach For America.
Myers compares his professional career to the winding country roads he grew up around but believes there has been one common denominator on his path—public service.
“Teach For America is focused on finding, developing, and supporting extraordinary leaders to transform education and expand opportunity for all children. We work to ensure that one day, all children will have the opportunity to attain an excellent education,” said Myers. “4-H nurtured my passion for public service, and I would not have the job I do without it.”
For current 4-H’ers, Myers says, “Spend time on your strengths but also step outside of your comfort zone to try new things. President John F. Kennedy once proclaimed, ‘Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly.’ Humans usually learn more from failure than from success. Don’t be scared to fail. Failure can be beautiful, and critical feedback can be a gift.”