MSU Extension 4-H

Elliana Specht is 14 years-old and a member of the Frankenmuth Pacesetters 4-H Club. She has been involved in 4-H for six years, where she has developed a passion for showing hogs at her local fair and engaging in community service projects. Throughout her 4-H career, Elliana has earned several volunteer awards, including the Community Volunteer Award from the Bavarian Arbor Gleaners, the Michigan 4-H Mark of Excellence Award, the Citizen in 4-H Award and the Award for Young Heroes. In the summer of 2024, Elliana received the junior Michigan 4-H State Award for Civic Engagement and Service.

A Michigan 4-H State Award is the highest honor bestowed on a Michigan 4-H member and provides an opportunity to receive recognition for their engagement in rich learning experiences that result in outstanding knowledge and life-skill development. State award applications are divided into four categories: Mark of Excellence essay contest (10-11 years old), junior state award (12-15 years old), senior state award (16-19 years old) and group awards (13-19 years old).

"4-H has helped me overcome anxiety and build confidence in myself and my abilities,” said Elliana. “It has taught me how to be responsible, dependable and compassionate—qualities I use every day. Through 4-H, I’ve learned that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the world around me, and it’s given me the courage to lead, speak up and make an impact in my community."

In 2024, Michigan State University Extension recognized outstanding 4-H members in the Michigan 4-H State Awards Program following the opening session of 4-H Exploration Days on June 19. Learn more about winner, Elliana Specht.

How did you become involved in 4-H?

I became involved in 4-H when I was eight years-old. In my first year, I showed a rabbit for showmanship and submitted an art project.

What other projects have you participated in outside your award area?

Over the years, I expanded my 4-H involvement to include raising hogs, beef, rabbits, poultry and participating in arts and community service projects. 4-H has been a huge part of my life and has helped me grow in so many ways, especially in overcoming my anxiety. When I first started, I was terrified of public speaking. But after my first experience at the fair, where I was crying and thought I might get sick before my turn, I won first place. That moment showed me that I could face my fears and 4-H has continued to help me build confidence in myself and my abilities.

What are some skills you’ve learned in 4-H?

In 4-H, I’ve learned a variety of valuable skills. Planning and organizing were crucial when I raised money for bikes for a family in need and organized hygiene baskets for foster kids. I’ve also learned the importance of accepting others, especially through my experiences at the mission, where I saw that everyone has a different story and struggles I might not know about.

Additionally, I’ve developed leadership skills by helping teach cooking, fishing and archery classes, and by taking on roles like president and junior leader. Finally, I’ve gained better stress management skills by learning how to stay calm in chaotic situations, like during fair day or when working with kids in classes.

How has 4-H helped you grow as a leader?

4-H has helped me grow as a leader in many ways. Being on the by-laws committee, serving as junior secretary, and attending council meetings has taught me how to negotiate and work with others to reach agreements. It has also shown me the importance of listening to different opinions.

Teaching Cloverbuds has helped me develop patience and learn how to communicate with different types of kids, whether they are hyper, anxious or quiet. These experiences have also helped me build confidence in public speaking. Although I still get nervous, I know I can handle it and that making mistakes is okay.

What are some ways you give back to your community through 4-H?

I give back to my community through 4-H in several ways. One of the service projects I participated in was cleaning-up yards for people in our community, including a yard for someone we knew. I made sure no one mentioned it to our friend so they wouldn’t feel embarrassed. It made me realize how important it is to help others without seeking recognition or sharing it on social media.

I also mow lawns for elderly people in our community, and although there are days when I don't feel like doing it, I know they need my help. It’s a reminder to put others' needs before my own. Additionally, I help clean-up the side of the road, which may not be hard but makes a big difference in making our town look cleaner. When we work together, we can accomplish a lot in just a few hours.

What unique opportunities/experiences have you had through 4-H?

Through 4-H, I’ve had some truly unique opportunities and experiences that have shaped who I am today. I’ve been able to help plan and participate in service projects, such as making hygiene baskets for foster kids and sewing pillowcases for the Underground Railroad, which allowed me to connect with my community in a meaningful way.

4-H has also given me the chance to explore my interests at 4-H Exploration Days, where I’ve tried new things like cooking, archery and even building my own fishing pole. One of my most memorable experiences was meeting with State Representative Matthew Bierlein during 4-H Day at the Capitol, which sparked my interest in politics and how it can affect youth and organizations like 4-H.

I also love how 4-H has encouraged me to help others, whether it’s through cleaning-up yards, visiting nursing homes, or participating in community events like those with the Bavarian Arbor Gleaners. These experiences have given me a sense of pride and confidence and I look forward to continuing to use the skills I’ve gained through 4-H to make a difference in my community.

How has your 4-H involvement influenced your future plans?

4-H has shaped my future plans by sparking my interest in becoming a farm veterinarian and exploring a career in children's education. I hope to one day be in a career that works with animals and children. I would love to work at MSU Extension someday!