Iowa 4-H Honors Staff for Youth Development

The statewide organization recognized three coordinators for their contributions during the annual YouthFest in Ames.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Awards

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a potted seedling and science beaker, representing youth development programming. — Iowa 4-H honored three program coordinators with Achievement in Service Awards during the organization's annual YouthFest conference in Ames. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Iowa 4-H recently honored staff members Rachel Muir, Paige Roberts, and Zoe Roos with Achievement in Service Awards. The honors were presented during the organization’s annual YouthFest conference held in Ames.

Why it matters

These awards recognize staff members for their significant impact on local communities and their dedicated commitment to advancing the 4-H mission across the state.

Award recipients were evaluated on contributions made within their first three years of service. Recent initiatives include the launch of five horticulture clubs and an adaptive 4-H club experience.

The players

Rachel Muir

She serves as the youth coordinator for Guthrie County and has launched a countywide computer science week.

Paige Roberts

She works as the K-12 outreach coordinator for Wright County.

Zoe Roos

She is the youth coordinator for Linn County and has served in her role for 18 months.

The details

Coordinators were celebrated for expanding local programming, including the growth of the Clover Kids program and the establishment of new science and horticulture clubs.

Rachel Muir joined Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in 2023.
Staff members received their awards on October 12, 2026.

Culture Shift

This recognition aligns with broader efforts to emphasize hands-on, community-based youth education within the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach framework. The focus on adaptive and STEM-based clubs reflects a growing shift toward specialized programming in local youth organizations.

Residents in Guthrie, Wright, and Linn counties may see an increase in local 4-H club activities and specialized programming. These expanded opportunities directly provide youth with more pathways for STEM and horticulture education.

The takeaway

Staff achievements in 4-H highlight how dedicated coordinators can drive significant participation growth through new club initiatives. These programs illustrate the importance of localized outreach in fostering youth engagement.