SW New Mexico News

Several individuals from the New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service were recognized at the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals conference held in Boise, Idaho. The event took place in October and honored various program directors, specialists, agents, and volunteers for their contributions.

Amy Zemler, a 4-H youth activities specialist, explained the significance of the conference: “The NAE4-HYDP conference brings together Extension faculty from all over the country to attend workshops and business sessions as part of the association.” The organization focuses on professional development, leadership cultivation, networking for youth development enhancement, and integrating scholarship with practice.

Zemler highlighted that "the 4-H program reaches youth ages 9-18 as well as adult volunteers," emphasizing its broad audience through club programs and school-based initiatives.

Among those recognized were Cheryl Butterfield, Jeff Witte, and Candie Sweetser who received awards for Regional and National Citizenship in 4-H Youth Development. Brittany Sonntag along with colleagues from Bernalillo County earned accolades for Excellence in 4-H Club Support.

Sarah Marta was awarded for Excellence in Geospatial Programs alongside Julia Marta and Willard Hall. In Shooting Sports Programming excellence were Eva Madrid and a team including Jack Blandford and others. Madrid also contributed to receiving honors in Healthy Living with LaJoy Spears through the Shattered Lives Program.

Emily Bruton was acknowledged individually for an Educational Piece award while Mindy Turner led efforts recognized under Volunteerism Excellence. Savannah Daniels was among those commended for Educational Technology achievements alongside several county program directors.

Global Citizenship Programming recognition went to Bernalillo County agents including Brittany Sonntag. Natural Resources Education excellence was attributed again to Sarah Marta’s team efforts. Sierra Cain received multiple leadership awards shared with others like Savannah Daniels.

Mindy Turner additionally secured Media Presentation honors along with Talisha Valdez. San Juan County representatives presented a Regional Exhibit involving Augusta Ahlm among others. Cain also achieved recognition under New Story category while video production accolades went to Mindy Turner's group efforts across various media formats.

Finally noted were Emily Bruton’s collaborative Promotional Piece award achievement with Jamie Fassett; Turner’s service milestone after 25 years; Cain's service accomplishment acknowledgment completed this extensive list of honorees reflecting NMSU's active engagement within national extension frameworks.