By Andi Anderson
Iowa 4-H has unveiled its 2026-27 Agricultural Ambassador team while expanding the scope of its successful statewide leadership initiative. Previously known as the Iowa 4-H Animal Science Ambassador Program, the program has been renamed the Iowa 4-H Agricultural Ambassador Program to better reflect the broad range of opportunities available within modern agriculture.
The program brings together young people aged 16 to 20 from across Iowa and helps them build leadership, communication, and advocacy skills. Participants also gain valuable experience by working with agricultural professionals, mentoring younger youth, and promoting agriculture through educational outreach activities.
The expanded program follows a successful inaugural year during which ambassadors helped establish a strong foundation for agricultural leadership and career exploration. Ambassadors volunteered at statewide events, participated in mentorship programs, delivered educational programming, and promoted agricultural literacy across Iowa communities.
One of the most notable achievements of the first ambassador cohort was the creation of the Farm to Future Day Camp. Designed for students in grades five through eight, the event was planned and led entirely by ambassadors. Participants attended hands-on learning sessions focused on agriculture, animal science, and career opportunities while exploring Iowa State University agricultural facilities.
For many ambassadors, the experience offered opportunities to strengthen leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Through organizing events, securing funding, managing budgets, and interacting with industry professionals, participants gained practical knowledge that will support future personal and professional growth.
Amy Powell, Program Advisor and Animal Science Specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, highlighted the accomplishments of the inaugural group.
"Our ambassadors were challenged not simply to participate in a program, but to lead one," said Amy Powell, program advisor and animal science specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “They didn't just attend a day camp; they designed and delivered one. They didn't just learn about leadership; they put it into practice through service, collaboration and decision-making. They didn't just hear about agricultural careers; they built meaningful relationships with professionals working in those careers. By the end of the year, they had not only grown as leaders themselves, but had created opportunities for younger youth to learn, explore and see themselves as future leaders in agriculture.”
The program also serves as a platform for agricultural advocacy. Ambassadors develop educational materials, engage with communities, and encourage young people to explore careers within agriculture. Participants learn how to communicate effectively while representing both Iowa agriculture and the 4-H organization.
Leading the 2026-27 ambassador team are Megan Swartzendruber, President, Aiden Anderson, Vice President, Sarah Dean, Secretary, and Leah Hoffman and Ella Peterson, Communications Officers. Returning ambassadors will help mentor new members and support leadership development throughout the year.
The new ambassador class includes youth from counties across Iowa who represent diverse agricultural interests and career goals. Together, they will participate in outreach activities, develop educational programming, mentor younger 4-H members, and promote awareness of agriculture's importance to society.
The expanded Iowa 4-H Agricultural Ambassador Program reflects the growing diversity of the agricultural industry and the need for future leaders who can communicate, collaborate, and advocate for the sector. By developing leadership skills and fostering a deeper understanding of agriculture, the program is preparing young people to become the next generation of industry professionals, educators, and community leaders. Through service, mentorship, and education, the ambassadors will continue helping Iowa youth discover the many opportunities agriculture offers while strengthening the future of the state's agricultural community.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-brzozowska
Categories: Iowa, Education