Iowa Youth Conference Registration Opens

By Andi Anderson

Registration is open through June 1 for the 2026 Iowa 4 H Youth Conference at Iowa State University. The three-day event will be held June 23-25 and will bring together students from across Iowa for leadership development, college exploration, service learning, and hands-on educational experiences.

This year’s conference theme, “Ride the Tide of Tomorrow,” encourages youth to develop leadership skills, strengthen resilience, and prepare for future opportunities with confidence. About 350 students in grades eight through 12 are expected to attend the conference. Previous 4-H participation is not required. Registration costs $260 for 4-H members and $275 for non-members through the 4hOnline registration system.

The conference is planned by the State 4-H Council, a youth leadership group that helps organize workshops, keynote speakers, activities, and service-learning projects. Participants will experience college life by staying in residence halls, eating in campus dining centers, and attending sessions in classrooms, laboratories, farms, and university facilities across campus.

“State 4-H Conference is an event I look forward to every year,” said Ady Petersen, state 4-H council member from Worth County. “It is the perfect experience that combines learning valuable leadership skills with getting to meet new people and having fun.”

Conference delegates may choose from several educational tracks including leadership development, animal science, STEM, horticulture, and career exploration. Hands-on activities include greenhouse tours, animal science learning, engineering projects, service opportunities, and leadership training exercises.

“The Iowa 4-H Youth Conference is designed to give young people more than just an introduction to college life,” said Megan Carlson, conference co-coordinator and 4-H youth program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “It helps them build the skills, confidence and connections they need to take their next steps after high school, whether that’s college, careers or other pathways.”

Motivational speakers will also discuss resilience, leadership, confidence, and personal growth throughout the conference. Organizers said the event is designed to help students build friendships, explore career interests, and prepare for future success.

For more information or registration details, visit Iowa 4 H Youth Conference Website or email state4hconference@iastate.edu.

Photo Credit: istock-fangxianuo