CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman County 4-H Club recently hosted its annual County Round Up, bringing together over 100 enthusiastic young members from both Cullman County and Cullman City Schools. The event highlighted the diverse skills and achievements of these young individuals in a variety of competitive categories ranging from culinary arts to creative building.
“County Round Up is the culmination of a year’s worth of effort in creating and demonstrating club projects,” explained Kerri Roberts, 4-H youth development coordinator. “4-H strives to help youth make decisions, become better at speaking with others about their work and ignite a ‘spark’ that may lead to future career paths or hobbies. The family involvement of 4-H projects strengthens bonds and passes along skills to the next generation.”
Kaileigh Mayfield from Holly Pond Elementary School and Addilynn Martin from Parkside School were honored as the “4-H Rookies of the Year,” each earning a free trip to a summer camp, celebrating their exceptional engagement and achievements in their first year with 4-H.
In addition to celebrating young talent, the event also recognized the dedication of local educators who lead these young minds. Jocelyn Logan, a fifth-grade teacher at Hanceville Elementary School, was awarded the “4-H Leader of the Year.” Logan, alongside Kori Wiginton from Fairview Elementary School, who was also honored as a “4-H Leader of the Year” but could not attend, received their awards from Roberta McClellan, a 4-H agent assistant.
Jocelyn Logan of Hanceville Elementary School, received her “4-H Leader of the Year” honors from 4-H Agent Assistant Roberta McClellan. Not pictured is Kori Wiginton of Fairview Elementary School, who was also honored as a “4-H Leader of the Year.” (Kerri Roberts)
The County Round Up competition itself featured a wide array of categories including Freestyle Demonstration, Cookies, Chef Demonstration, Extreme Birdhouse, Blocks Rock! Legos, Photography, the $15 Challenge and Creative Endeavors Art. These categories provided a platform for the students to showcase their talents and apply the skills learned through their monthly 4-H Club meetings. At these meetings, which are conducted in classrooms and community clubs, members practice parliamentary procedures, elect officers and prepare for monthly projects that can lead to further recognition. Members who earn first- or second-place ribbons in their classroom competitions are invited to the County Round Up. There, they compete to be recognized as the best in the county and have the opportunity to win prize money.
Roberts also commented on the inclusivity and growth of the program, saying, “4-H offers a niche environment to youth who may not be involved in sports or academics as much. Every year I look forward to new members becoming confident in their work. I also enjoy returning members improving on their skills.”
The 2024 County Round Up Jr winners (Kerri Roberts)
Roberts, along with her assistant McClellan, oversee more than 1,500 youth across the county. They are committed to fostering an environment where young people can grow their skills in leadership, creativity and community involvement.
“Our goal in Cullman 4-H is to be in every elementary school in the county and city. We currently are not in every school due to lack of personnel to cover every school, but our County Coordinator, Kira Sims, is working hard to fund another 4-H youth educator. The 4-H motto is ‘To Make the Best Better’ and we strive to do that in Cullman,” Roberts said.
