On Thursday, June 5, Ohio 4-H hosted the 2025 4-H Achievement Awards banquet at the Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center in Columbus. Prior to the banquet, six seniors were recognized for their accomplishments in 4-H and celebrated as they enter the next chapter of their lives during the inaugural Signing Day ceremony.
Samantha Bader, a 12-year 4-H member from Fairfield County and the winner of the Natural Resources Achievement Award, was one of the seniors recognized at this event and she credits 4-H with helping her become “beyond ready” for the future.
“My project work in beekeeping has impacted my life and 4-H career because it has taught me the importance of sustainability, environmental stewardship, and the vital roles that pollinators play in our ecosystem,” 
said Bader. “This experience has sparked my passion for environmental science and has shaped my desire to pursue a career in entomology, the study of insects.”
This fall, Bader plans to take the next step toward making this dream a reality by attending The Ohio State University. She will study entomology and forensic science, with the goal of earning her PhD.
Recipient of the Veterinary Science Achievement Award and 12-year Tuscarawas County 4-H member Leah Hamilton expressed similar sentiments regarding the impact 4-H has had on helping her prepare for her future.
“My project work in veterinary science has helped shape me as a person in many ways. Through 4-H I’ve had the opportunity to work hands on with different species and this has helped me learn the required responsibility and empathy needed in veterinary care,” said Hamilton.
She plans to major in animal science and pre-veterinary medicine at the University of Findlay, with the hopes of becoming a large animal veterinarian.
“The 4-H projects I’ve taken have made me more compassionate, focused, and dedicated to making a difference through the well-being of animals,” she said.
With the new Beyond Ready initiative, 4-H seeks to build a ready generation in a world of change. By meeting them where they are today, 4-H has the ability to engage youth in meaningful ways and equip them with skills for the future. Through 4-H, youth participate in experiences that shape them into their full, authentic selves, enabling them to shine both now and in the future.
Learn more about Beyond Ready here, or find out how to get involved with Ohio 4-H, whether it be as a youth member or a volunteer, here.