Olivia Castle and Allie Harrison, both Gray Community Residents and students of Daniel Boone High School, were recently recognized during the 100th Tennessee 4-H Roundup at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville receiving the VOL STATE AWARD. The Vol State Award is the highest level of recognition a Tennessee 4-H member may achieve. Vol State is presented to high school juniors and seniors in recognition of excellence in all phases of 4-H work, as well as service and leadership rendered in their communities.
Both Olivia and Allie have served in leadership roles with the Washington County 4-H Honor Club. Olivia has served our Regional 4-H All Stars as Eastern Regional Deputy Chief, her current position, and has served on the Tennessee 4-H State Council. Olivia won the state and regional 4-H public speaking contest and will be participating at the Western National 4-H Roundup in Denver, Colorado, this January. Allie won 1st Place – State Winner - at Roundup for her Beef Portfolio Level 2 and interview. This accolade garnered a silver bowl, a scholarship and a trip to National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia, this November. She has also served as the Daniel Boone FFA President and Eastern Region Reporter. Allie was the Tennessee 2022 Cattlemen’s Youth Association Ambassador.
Their 4-H Agent, Connie Goff Sharp, asked them to share how 4-H has impacted their lives. Allie Harrison stated “it was a great honor to receive the Vol State Award during the 100th Annual 4-H Round-Up in July. 4-H has given me many opportunities to develop life skills by leading hands-on projects, particularly with my portfolio on my Beef project. Just recently, I won the Senior Showmanship at the Appalachian Fair Beef Show. I have gained practical knowledge to further my involvement within the agricultural community and have been encouraged to take on leadership roles. Through 4-H, I have met new people, made lifelong friends and have made many great memories.”
Olivia Castle’s response was “I have participated and volunteered in many 4-H events. I feel 4-H is home to me and many others. I have always said 4-H has given me more than I will ever be able to repay. This organization has given me opportunities to serve my community and reach out to those in need. I have been able to attend 4-H camp as a counselor, serve in leadership roles, and have participated in several county, regional and state community service projects. I have made countless friendships, learned life lessons, and skills that I will carry with me throughout my life. 4-H is an organization that I am very proud to be a part of.”