Hampton County 4-H Junior Leadership Program Continues Building Future Leaders
Dawn Stuckey, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Hampton County
Hampton County youth are once again stepping into leadership roles through the 4-H Junior Leadership Program, now in its second year. With nine eager students from Hampton County High School and Patrick Henry Academy, the program is designed to nurture civic responsibility, build confidence, and create pathways to local career opportunities.
Over nine sessions, students will gain hands-on leadership experience while exploring career options right here in Hampton County. By working closely with industry leaders, businesses, elected officials, and state representatives, participants not only develop valuable skills but also build networks that may open doors to future internships and employment.
This year’s Junior Leadership class includes Maura Mathis, Colton Gray, Saige Kelehear, Leonel Maldonado, and Kassidy Malphrus from Patrick Henry Academy, and Ty’Mone Wiley-Moore, Thaddeus Alexander, Law Bennett, and Trinity Cohen from Hampton County High School.
The group began their journey in September with an orientation session focused on teamwork and self-discovery. Students explored their leadership styles, identified personal strengths, and set goals they will strive to reach throughout the year.
Already, the class has tackled two thought-provoking sessions. In one, they met with Nicole Smith, Prevention Director and 14th Circuit Alcohol Enforcement Team Coordinator, who led a discussion on how drugs and alcohol can impact long-term goals. Students then shifted gears to focus on health and career exploration at Hampton Regional Medical Center, where they toured the facility with Michelle Strickland, Director of Marketing. There, they gained an inside look at the wide range of jobs required to keep a hospital running—everything from physicians and nurses to technicians and administrative staff. Students with an interest in healthcare had the rare opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from professionals in the field.
The day concluded with a workshop on stress management and wellness, reminding students that effective leadership includes taking care of one’s own health and well-being.
Looking ahead, the Junior Leadership Program will continue to challenge students through sessions on local government, business and banking, and personal financial management. Each experience is designed to help participants grow as leaders while deepening their understanding of the roles they can play in shaping Hampton County’s future.
By the end of the program, students will not only have sharpened their leadership skills but also gained a greater appreciation for the opportunities and responsibilities that come with being active members of their community.
For more information about the Hampton County 4-H Junior Leadership Program, contact Dawn Stuckey, 4-H Youth Development Agent, at dstucke@clemson.edu.
