The citation from the Kansas State University Research and Extension Department of 4-H Youth Development is one of only two in the state being awarded this year, said Gary Gerhard, professor of 4-H youth development and chair person for the state 4-H awards program.
The award was presented at a reception for Butler, a Kansas State University attorney, said Pat McNally, state leader, Kansas 4-H.
Butler is a former Edwards County 4-H member who, in addition to growing through project development, also valued the opportunity in 4-H to get acquainted with others who have diverse interests and abilities.
"We lived in a rural area, but not on a farm," she said. "Being able to get acquainted with others who had a farm background and work on livestock projects helped me develop a greater understanding of agriculture and the larger world."
"4-H projects vary, but with each, I learned much about myself and the responsibilities needed to plan and work toward completing a project," Butler said. "I also learned to appreciate the wisdom of older, more experienced 4-H members who mentored me, and looked forward to the time when I would become a more experienced member
able to mentor - and set a good example - for younger members."
"Learning to be a good citizen and help others help others builds community," she said.
In presenting the state service award to Butler, McNally expressed appreciation for Butler's willingness to explore 4-H programs at the state and county levels and offer guidance as to how the programs might best serve across the state.
"Kansas 4-H is working to provide youth development opportunities to an ever-changing and increasingly diverse audience," McNally said. "Butler´s interest in - and familiarity with - 4-H programs and youth development has been helpful in her work with the 4-H state and 4-H county staffs, which are working together to ensure educational
programs and opportunities for Kansas youth."
As a young mother, Butler, who will be relocating from Manhattan to Larned, Kan., this summer, also is looking forward to being a 4-H parent.
More information on Kansas 4-H is available from K-State Research and Extension county and district offices and on the 4-H Web site: www.kansas4h.org.
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