Submitted By
Kathryn Maxwell
4-H and Youth Development Agent
Seven Pickens County 4-H members joined more than 700 youth from across the state at the 2025 Georgia State 4-H Council, held June 20-22 at Rock Eagle 4-H Center.
State Council is an annual leadership conference for high school-aged 4-H’ers that offers workshops, competitions, recognition ceremonies, and the election of the 2025-2026 Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors. This year’s theme, “Unlocking the Secrets to Success,” encouraged students to build leadership skills, prepare for future careers, and connect with 4-H’ers from across the state.
Delegates participated in two career preparation classes, contributed to community service projects, and took part in the Citizenship Ceremony, where 4-H’ers pledge to be informed and active citizens.
While at State Council, two Pickens County 4-H’ers were competing for Master 4-H Status (1st place in the state for their specific competition). Christian Wright, competed in his State Congress project, Performing Arts- Vocal. The results for his competition will be announced at State Congress in late July. Micah Newton submitted a portfolio and interviewed for the Dean’s Award competition in his content area, Communication and the Arts. Micah placed first in his content area, receiving Master 4-H Status.
Several 4-H’ers from Pickens County were also honored for completing the rigorous requirements to become Georgia 4-H Ambassadors in their respective areas. Reese Davis, Micah Newton, Sarahi Flores, Sheila Flores, Sophia Scott, and Sky Paredes were recognized for completing the Ambassador Training, six sharing activities, six learning activities, and all four quarterly reports to earn their ambassador credentials.
In another major recognition area, students received the 4-H Key Award, which honors members who have demonstrated leadership, character, and service within 4-H. Sarahi Flores and Sheila Flores received the Level 1 Key Award, while Reese Davis and Micah Newton earned the Level 3 Key Award, reflecting continued involvement and achievement across multiple years.
Sarahi Flores, Sheila Flores, Reese Davis, and Sophia Scott also created and displayed educational posters, sharing knowledge with their peers from around the state. A crowd-favorite moment during the event was when State 4-H Leader, Mrs. Melanie Biersmith, was slimed by the Georgia 4-H State Board of Directors – a fun and messy reward for the success of Georgia 4-H’s $4 for 4-H online giving day, which surpassed its fundraising goal.
The weekend concluded with the awarding of the Iron Clover – the highest district-level honor at State Council, recognizing participation, spirit, service, and achievement. The Northeast District, which includes Pickens County, proudly took home the Iron Clover for 2025.
For more information on how to get involved with Pickens County 4-H, contact the UGA Extension Pickens County office at 706-253-8840.
