“I learned the value of healthy competition, what it felt like to win, and what it felt like to not do as well as I hoped.”
As an executive coach and change management consultant, Shannon Stickney uses many of the skills learned in 4-H to guide executives through solving complex business problems: “Ohio 4-H taught me many things, but most importantly, it showed me the power of believing in myself and helped me develop the confidence to do things I never thought were possible. Today, I use these skills to teach business leaders how to move outside of their comfort zone to achieve extraordinary results.”
Stickney was a member of Delaware County Ohio 4-H for eight years and still has great memories from completing projects, leading her club, attending camp, and competing at the county fair: “I learned the value of healthy competition, what it felt like to win, and what it felt like to not do as well as I hoped.”
Today, Stickney continues to stay involved with 4-H through her children as she volunteers with their club: “My favorite part about volunteering with 4-H is helping kids connect the dots between how their experiences today can prepare them for their future. Project judging prepares them for job interviews, and managing multiple projects helps them develop the skills needed to juggle classes, work, and life. The discipline it takes to raise an animal translates to what it’s like to be responsible for something other than yourself. Helping others shows them how to be good citizens and community members. This is by far the most rewarding part of my 4-H career.”