USU Extension 4-H Members Receive Prestigious National Award

By Shelby Ruud | January 13, 2017

AwardsTwo Utah State University Extension 4-H members from St. George were recently recognized for their demonstrated interest and achievements in computing, proven leadership ability, academic performance and plans for post‑secondary education.

Kenadie Terry and Bailee Allen were selected from more than 3,500 applicants to receive the 2017 Award for Aspirations in Computing from the National Center for Women & Information Technology. Only two young women from Utah are eligible for this honor, and Terry and Allen are two out of 50 award winners throughout the country.

According to Paul Hill, USU Extension 4-H agent, there is high demand in science and technology fields, with not enough people with the right skills to fill those jobs.

“Computer science is the language of the future,” said Hill. “In the 4-H program, we learn about what’s relevant and cutting edge to help prepare our members for a successful future.”

Terry is currently a senior in high school. She became interested in computer coding while taking a tour of the Adobe Studios corporate office. Since then, she has participated in programming classes, camps and other opportunities to build her STEM skills. Terry plans to attend USU to study to become an electrical engineer.

Allen is a junior at Dixie SUCCESS Academy. She became interested in technology through her local 4-H program. Her hobbies include graphic design, robotics and programming. After receiving a grant through the Utah STEM Action Center, Allen was able to start a robotics team, the PrestidigiTaters. The team won the top award at the FIRST Tech Challenge during its first year. Allen plans to attend USU and obtain a degree in graphic design.

“These girls represent the best the 4-H program has to offer,” said Dave Francis, USU Extension 4-H youth development specialist. “They have the social skills to be great leaders and the depth of technical knowledge to back it up.”

Terry and Allen were both awarded a laptop and an all-expense paid trip to accept their award in Charlotte, N.C.

Further information about the Utah 4-H program can be found at utah4h.org.

 

Contact: Paul Hill, paul.hill@usu.edu
Writer: Shelby Ruud, shelby.ruud@usu.edu