Related CFAES News Releases
Ohioans will be seeing green even before St. Patrick’s Day this year as 4-H members, in their official colors of green and white, will celebrate 4-H Week March 8–14 throughout the state.
STUDENT AND YOUTH SUCCESS
OUR GRADUATES GET HIRED
In a survey from the 2014–15 academic year, 92 percent of CFAES graduates reported either having a job or being enrolled in an advanced degree program within six months of graduation. Of those graduates, 74.4 percent reported accepting positions in Ohio. The overall average starting salary is $42,184. Graduates of the Ohio State ATI also report success, with 97 percent either employed or transferred to a four-year degree-granting institution within six months of graduation. More: go.osu.edu/cfaesgraduates
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING: A 4-H SUCCESS STORY
After struggling with learning disabilities from fetal alcohol syndrome, Jacob Shuman, adopted as an infant, discovered 4-H. He took the beekeeping project at 13, and one hive eventually grew to 14. Jacob created TEACH B’s, and he has reached more than 500 people. Jacob was awarded the national 2016 Youth in Action Award in agriculture and animal sciences, and a scholarship from the National 4-H Council. Jacob plans to attend Ohio State ATI to study bees before earning a degree in entomology and community leadership. More: go.osu.edu/shuman2016
The Spark Lab Innovation Center is designed to spark creativity and hands-on learning.
INNOVATION LAB LIGHTS A SPARK
A large portion of the Hardin County Extension office is now the Spark Lab Innovation Center designed to spark creativity and hands-on learning through technology like a 3-D printer, LEGO robotics kits, and a video production lab. The space is possible thanks to a $49,000 innovation grant from eXtension, a $23,000 Columbus Foundation grant, and broad community support. By hosting weekly sessions and special programming, the space has hosted nearly 1,000 people in its first year of operation.
More: go.osu.edu/hardinspark
OHIO 4-H PETPALS: ENHANCING HEALTH THROUGH HUMAN-ANIMAL CONNECTIONS
The Ohio 4-H PetPALS program teaches members the skills needed to interact with senior and disability residents of health care facilities. It has since expanded to schools, hospice programs and colleges. In 2015–2016, 181 4-H members brought pets to visit an estimated 5,500 Ohioans. PetPALS participants can earn an American Kennel Club Therapy Dog title. Even more, the program provides therapeutic relief from stress and loneliness to Ohioans of all ages.
More: go.osu.edu/petpals