Dahinda's Own Ellis Rogers Named National 4-H Youth in Action Runer-Up

By - Wendy Ferguson, Marketing and Communications Program Coordinator, UofI

Illinois 4-H is proud to celebrate one of its own! Ellis Rogers, an 18-year-old from Dahinda, Illinois, has been named a runner-up for the prestigious National 4-H Youth in Action Award, earning national recognition for her leadership and achievements in equine science.

A true homegrown 4-H’er, Ellis began her journey with the Knox County 4-H Horse Team, where she discovered a passion for animal science and quickly rose through the ranks of local, state, and national horse competitions. Her dedication to learning, mentoring younger members, and building confidence through hands-on experience has made her a standout in the 4-H community.

Ellis has earned her veterinary assistant certification and plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine—proof that 4-H not only nurtures dreams but helps turn them into reality.

The 4-H Youth in Action Awards, launched in 2010, honor young people who use the skills gained through 4-H to create lasting impact in their communities. Ellis’s story is a shining example of how Illinois 4-H empowers youth to lead, serve, and grow.

To learn more about the 2025 Youth in Action runners-up and the program, visit 4-H.org/Youthinaction.

About 4-H Nationally: 4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, reaching nearly six million young people across the U.S. through hands-on experiences that build life skills, leadership, and confidence. Through the Cooperative Extension System and USDA, 4-H serves every county and parish in the country. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower youth in 50 countries.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H, part of University of Illinois Extension, provides youth across the state with opportunities to learn by doing, lead with purpose, and grow into the next generation of changemakers. Learn more at extension.illinois.edu/4h