Eight Leaders Join National 4H Emeritus Council

Experienced Leaders Guide 4H Mission Partnerships Strategy and Youth Development Growth

Bonnie Johnson
May 05, 2026
Media Article

National 4H Council forms Emeritus Council with eight experienced leaders to guide strategy, support partnerships, and strengthen youth development programs preparing future leaders across agriculture and education sectors.

The National 4 H Council has launched a new advisory group called the Emeritus Council to provide strategic guidance and strengthen its mission of developing youth leaders. This group includes experienced professionals from agriculture, education, and business who will support long-term planning, partnerships, and advocacy efforts. The council will also serve as ambassadors, helping build stronger connections across the Cooperative Extension system and the broader agriculture and education sectors.

Dr. E Gordon Gee will chair the council. He brings more than 40 years of leadership experience in higher education and public service. He has served as president of West Virginia University, The Ohio State University, Vanderbilt University, Brown University, and the University of Colorado. His experience makes him well suited to guide this important initiative.

"4-H and education have been a meaningful part of my life for decades," Dr. Gee said. "The Emeritus Council is passionate about the Land-grant mission, which is more relevant than ever, having been created to advance research, education, and outreach. We believe in that mission and the importance of supporting the leaders and communities who carry it forward. We will stay connected, ask hard questions, and provide perspective to help 4-H equip young people for what's next."

The council includes several well-known leaders. Jim Borel has over 40 years of experience in agriculture and food industries and serves as chair of Neogen Corporation’s board. Daniel Glickman brings government experience, having served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and a long-time member of Congress. Krysta Harden leads the U.S. Dairy Export Council and has also served as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture.

Ken Hicks contributes leadership from the retail sector, currently serving as CEO of PetSmart. Landel Hobbs brings expertise in media and telecommunications, with past roles as COO and CFO of Time Warner Cable. Wade Miquelon offers experience in corporate strategy, having served as CEO of JOANN and CFO for major companies. Ann Veneman adds valuable leadership from government and global organizations, including her role with UNICEF.

Jill Bramble said these leaders will help guide future growth. Their combined experience will support 4-H programs and prepare young people to become confident leaders ready for the future.