STILLWATER, Okla.
– Oklahoma 4-H’ers celebrated achievements, developed skills and discovered new opportunities during the 105th State 4-H Roundup. More than 650 club members and adults gathered on the Oklahoma State University campus July 22-24 for the biggest 4-H event of the year. This year’s theme was “Wild About 4-H.”
“Wild About 4-H represented the enthusiasm, excitement and passion our youth brought to State 4-H Roundup,” said Steve Beck, Oklahoma 4-H state program leader. “From the moment they arrived, their energy was evident and on full display. Their excitement for learning, leadership and connecting with fellow 4-H members truly embodied the spirit of this year’s theme. I hope they use what they learned at Roundup to make a positive difference where they live.”
Attending from Garvin County were Nathan Cole, Kolbi Koesler, Ella Lister, Shelby Lister, Makena Phelps, and Jonathon Wright, of Stratford; Cooper McKinzie, Nevaeh Woodring, and Paetyn Woodring, of Wynnewood; Kally Milligan and Tinley Milligan, of Pauls Valley; Braylie Sapp, of Lindsay; Sebastian Schwartz, of Elmore City; and Kelsey Thompson, of Maysville.
Also attending and serving as chaperones were Rusty Cole, JoAnne Wright, FCS Educator Julie Selman, Ag Educator Melissa Koesler, and Program Assistant Tracie Mullendore.
While on campus, delegates explored new interests and participated in educational workshops, contests, dances and other events.
Workshop topics covered a range of subjects including floral design, cybersecurity, robotics, weather science, financial literacy, self-defense, flight, leadership development, water quality testing, livestock evaluation and creative arts.
Shelby and Ella Lister from Stratford competed in the Music Competition.
There were 27 competitors in the Junior and Senior Division. Shelby presented a vocal selection, and Ella performed an instrumental selection. Ella won first place in her category. Ella was also selected as one of the top five performers and performed in front of the entire Roundup delegation for the “4-H Has Talent” competition.
Team members Cooper McKinzie, Kally Milligan and Kelsey Thompson competed once again in the FCS Skill-a-thon and were named State Reserve Champion FCS Skill-a-thon team.
Roundup participants also had opportunities to learn more about the OSU campus and future career opportunities through a variety of hands-on experiences and tours, including the OSU Museum of Art, OSU Student Farm, Boone Pickens Stadium and the Nursing Simulation Lab.
Pistol Pete’s Safari gave 4-H’ers a chance to connect with college and career representatives while enjoying games, activities and prizes. During the event, Damona Doye, associate vice president of OSU Extension, met with Oklahoma 4-H graduates who signed Beyond Ready certificates and discussed their plans for after high school.
A century-old tradition, State 4-H Roundup is not only a time to learn new things and make lifelong friends, but also to celebrate the accomplishments of Oklahoma 4-H’ers.
During the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma Honor Night assembly, record book and scholarship winners were recognized.
Thanks to the generosity of donors and supporters, Oklahoma 4-H’ers received a total of $243,400 in scholarships. Of that amount, $103,300 was awarded through the OSU Foundation, and $140,100 was awarded through the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.
Oklahoma 4-H leaders expressed appreciation to the individuals, families, businesses and organizations whose support helps provide opportunities for 4-H’ers as they pursue higher education and career goals.
Honor Night also served as the setting for Oklahoma 4-H’s most prestigious award, induction into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame. Each year, two 4-H’ers are recognized for their accomplishments, leadership and service.
The 2026 inductees were Kate Wardlaw of Payne County and Dani McTague of Oklahoma County. Each received a $7,500 scholarship sponsored by Farm Credit Associations of Oklahoma.
In addition to celebrating outstanding youth, Oklahoma 4-H also honored individuals whose service and support have strengthened the organization. This year, Dr. Randy Harp and Shirley W.
Hastings McLeod were recognized as Outstanding 4-H Alumni, while Lily Stubbs received the State Partner in 4-H Award.
Delegates took to the polls to elect the new slate of officers for the state leadership team. Serving on the team for 20262027 are Jake Vulgamore, Canadian County, president; Joe Sharp, Garfield County, vice president; Mason Luka, Pottawatomie County, secretary; Tori Nelms, Pottawatomie County, reporter; and Kord Campbell, Alfalfa County, recreation leader.
Northeast District representatives are Jacob May, Payne County; Cash Tripp, Kay County; and Kara Wardlaw, Payne County. Southeast District representatives are Sophie Eaton, Pittsburg County; Lucile Morehouse, Choctaw County; and Alexis Ross, Pittsburg County. West District representatives are Paisley Harrison, Cotton County; Titus Olmstead, Harper County; and Ian Pope, Kingfisher County.
