Behind the Scenes at NDSU: 4-H Youth Development

Posted: 2026-10-25 07:25:20 Expiration: 2026-11-01 06:25:20

4-H Youth Development turns NDSU research into hands-on learning for North Dakota youth, and its Next Chapter at NDSU program has become an effective recruitment tool.

4-H Youth Development, part of NDSU Extension, takes research done on campus and turns it into projects, activities, and events for North Dakota youth in kindergarten through 12th grade. Leigh Ann Skurupey, assistant director of 4-H Youth Development and chair of Ag and Family Education, leads the unit, which helps young people find their spark and purpose, and encourages them to find it at NDSU.

59%

of Next Chapter at NDSU participants who graduated high school in 2026 applied to NDSU

271

hands-on career kits funded for schools and clubs

county and area Extension offices offering 4-H

What They're Proud Of

Next Chapter at NDSU, a free college and career readiness program the unit runs with the Office of Admission, has become one of NDSU's most effective recruitment tools. More than 20 applicants have named it as the place they first heard about NDSU.

Starting in eighth grade, students work through 17 lesson plans on goal-setting, résumé writing, and financial management. Careers in a Box kits let them try out jobs such as food safety officer, livestock nutritionist, and agricultural broadcaster. A $250,000 CHS Foundation grant in January 2025 paid for 271 of those kits.

Did You Know?

4-H reaches well beyond enrolled members. Every Extension agent in North Dakota carries some 4-H responsibilities.

This year's North Dakota 4-H STEM Challenge asks youth to build a bridge from four chocolate bars, with no glue or tape, and see how much weight it can hold.

Team Spotlight

Margo Bowerman, 4-H STEM specialist

Bowerman leads Next Chapter at NDSU and the North Dakota 4-H STEM program. Since joining NDSU in 2024 from University of Minnesota Extension, she has found grants and partners across the state and coordinated with educators to keep the program growing.

Work With Them

If your department runs programs for young people, share them with 4-H so the team can send them out to its statewide network. Email the State 4-H Office at ndsu.4-H@ndsu.edu.

Learn more about North Dakota 4-H Youth Development