MSU Extension 4-H

Lillian Wasson is 14 years-old and is in her ninth year in the Michigan 4-H program. She is currently a member of three clubs: Living Livestock 4-H Club in Grand Traverse County and Pen Pals and Equine Achievers 4-H Clubs in Oceana County. Over the last six years, Lillian has focused her efforts on goat and horse projects, specializing in raising registered Boer goats. Lillian shares that her greatest achievements include earning the Overall Grand Champion Fullblood Doe at the Northern Nights Junior American Boer Goat Association (AGBA) Show and multiple top finishes at other ABGA shows. This summer, Lillian received the 2024 junior Michigan 4-H State Award for Goat Science.

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 (11-12 years old), junior state award (13-15 years old), senior state award (16-19 years old) and group awards (13-19 years old).

“4-H has taught me the importance of hard work, dedication and community,” said Lillian.

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, Lillian Wasson.

How did you become involved in 4-H?

I've been involved with 4-H since 2016, and it's been a big part of my life even before I was able to join as my brothers were active 4-H members.

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

Apart from my love for goats, I also enjoy showcasing draft horses in different states. Currently, I proudly hold the title of Michigan Draft Horse Breeders Queen. I'm also actively involved in the annual Michigan 4-H Livestock Skillathon.

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

I've gained important skills like communication and leadership, which gave me the confidence to go for the position of Large Market Goat Representative in Oceana County 4-H. Thanks to 4-H, I've also improved my public speaking abilities, which came in handy as I prepared to teach a class at 4-H Exploration Days.

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

When helping organize and run the ABGA show in Traverse City with my 4-H group, I learned valuable leadership skills such as organization, problem solving and collaboration. This event was a big undertaking that required coordination, planning and teamwork. It also gave me a sense of accomplishment to see the show come together.

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

I give back to my community through 4-H by helping clean up the fairgrounds. It feels good to be part of a team working together to make our community a better place. Plus, by keeping the fairgrounds clean, we're ensuring that future events can be enjoyed by everyone who attends.

Also, teaching braiding and driving lessons at horse camp was a rewarding experience. It went so well that I offered to help at 4-H Exploration Days. It gave me a chance to share my passion and knowledge with others while helping them learn new skills.

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

In 4-H, I focus mainly on raising and showing goats and horses. At first, I started with commercial Boer goats for fair and for our freezer. Now, I raise high-quality registered Boer goats. This change was a big step forward for me because now I go to bigger shows in Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. The best moment so far was when I got to go to the 2023 ABGA national show in Louisville, Kentucky.

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

My time in 4-H has changed me a lot. It's not just about raising animals and doing activities, it's helped me figure out who I am and what I want to do in the future. Because of 4-H, I've decided I want to become a veterinarian, especially focusing on farm animals. There is a huge need for large animal vets in Michigan and I’m hoping that I can make a positive impact, not only on the lives of animals, but for Michigan farmers.