Four North Dakota youth are joining 4-H’ers from across the country at the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Ga., Nov. 23-27.

The North Dakota delegates to the convention are Sara Hatlewick, a high school freshman who lives near Jamestown; Gus Kronberg, a high school sophomore who lives near Forbes; Kaleen Krueger, a high school junior from Casselton; and Jessi Lagein, a high school junior who lives near Rock Lake. Ellen Bjelland, Barnes County family and consumer science Extension agent, will accompany the delegates.

“I am honored to have been selected as a North Dakota delegate for the 2012 National 4-H Congress and looking forward to representing our great state of North Dakota in Atlanta,” Kronberg says.

Become a Catalyst of Change is the theme of this year’s congress. The conference will focus on leadership life skills and encourage the development of skills that delegates will practice in their communities and carry into their adult life.

During the conference, the delegates will have opportunities to explore a variety of locations, including the Carter Presidential Library, Martin Luther King Center for Non-violent Change, Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta Zoo, CNN Center and Atlanta History Center.

Dan Thurman, a speaker, author, entrepreneur and entertainer; Dan Clark, CEO of a multimillion dollar corporation and an internationally recognized speaker, songwriter and recording artist; and Robin Kaeppeler, Miss America, are this year’s keynote speakers.

“I happen to think 4-H is amazing,” Bjelland says. “I have witnessed firsthand the difference it can make in a young person’s life. I am excited to go to 4-H Congress.”

The North Dakota 4-H Foundation provides the financial support for the delegates selected to attend the National 4-H Congress.

“This great experience in earned through the delegates’ leadership efforts in 4-H,” says Mylie Lavold, 4-H Foundation development director.

NDSU Agriculture Communication - Nov. 19, 2012