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Alex Gillman, daughter of Wes and Gina Gillman, she is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School, and is a member of Franklin County Mustangers 4-H club. Some of her favorite memories include winning overall high point at our 4-H show with her horse Breaton. The best thing that she has gained from 4-H is experience and friends to share her passion with. Her advice to first year members is to take advantage of all opportunities 4-H and life has to offer you. Some of her special honors and achievements are being an Eli Lilly semi-finalist, Academic All-State, Rising Star of Indiana Award, and being president of her 4-H club for three years. Someone who inspires Alex along the way was her mom. Her mom inspires her to work hard and be independent. She has always pushed Alex to be the best that she can be while still helping others in the community. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing basketball, being with friends and family, and trail riding. As for her future plans, Alex plans on attending Purdue University to pursue pre-veterinary medicine.
Amber Galyen, is the daughter of Matt and Kristina Galyen. She is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School, and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. One of her favorite memories from 4-H include competing in Showman of Showmen. One of the best things she has gained from 4-H was her lifelong friends. Her advice for first year members is to never be scared to try something new and to never wait until last minute to do your projects! Some of her special honors and achievements include getting multiple projects sent to state fair, as well as competing in Showman of Showmen for Dairy Cattle. Someone who has inspired Amber along the way is her mom and dad have inspired her because they give her the best advice she needs to be successful and they push her to be a better person. In her free time, she enjoys fishing, cooking, shopping, hanging out with friends and family. As for her future plans, she plans on attending Morehead State University and majoring in Ag Business and minoring in Agronomy.
Anna Helmers, is the daughter of Paul and Julie Helmers. She is homeschooled, but did graduate 2022. She is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H club. Her favorite memory of 4-H is hanging out with friends and getting ice cream. Her advice for first year members is to be patient with yourself and others. In her free time, she enjoys ballet, jazz, and sewing. As for her future plans, she plans on attending Indiana University for nursing school.
Anne Becker, is the daughter of William and Kizzandra Becker. She is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School, and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers and the Franklin County Junior Leaders 4-H Club. Some of her favorite memories from 4-H include meeting new people and gaining life and leadership skills. Her advice for first year members is to try something new because you may learn to love something you wouldn’t normally have tried to begin with. Some of her special honors and achievements include many 4-H Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion Awards and State Fair Honors for Basketry and Foods. As well as highest honors for all four years of high school and Chinese ll and Mad Scientist Achievement Awards. Someone who has inspired Anne along the way is her grandma, Pat Smith. Her grandma inspires her because even when she doesn’t have to, she volunteers her time, money, and skills to help 4-Hers with basketry. She never stops learning new skills and finding new patterns in order to give the children she teaches excitement and purpose to keep them engaged in learning basketry. In her free time, she enjoys playing softball, basketball for Franklin County. She is the JAG President, Chinese club member, MCATZ Mentor, a bleacher bum, National Honor Society member, Key Club Member, FCCLA Member, as well as book club and environmental club. As for her plans in the future, she plans on attending Grinnell College in Iowa to study Biochemistry and Chinese. She has committed to playing softball for the Pioneers. After college, she would like to travel and work in an area of Neurology.
Austin Hill, is the son of Dusty and Amy Hill, and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School, and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. One of his favorite memories is being at fair. The best thing he has gained from 4-H is how to be appreciative of the community. His advice for first year members is to stick with it even if it seems hard at any point. Some of his special honors and achievements included National Honors Society, above a 4.0 all 4 years of high school, 2-time All-conference football, All-State football, 2021 Golf MVP, 2021 football defensive MVP, 2020 football Most Valuable Linebacker, Football Most improved player, Basketball Wildcat award, 3-time Academic All-State, getting 9 varsity letters. Someone who has inspired Austin along the way is his dad, because he is someone that Austin looks up to when it comes to teaching him important life skills. In his free time, he enjoys, football, basketball, golfing, hunting, and fishing. As for his future plans, he plans on attending Miami University to attend the Farmer School of Business.
Benjamin Maze, is the son of John and Pammala Maze, he is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School, and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. Some of his favorites memories is judging. He gets to hangout with his friends and see what everyone has done for that year. The best thing gained from 4-H is to learn new things and have the confidence to get them done. His advice for first year members is to stick with it and learn from it. Some of his special honors and achievements include Grand Champion in Entomology for 3 years, Aerospace for 2 years, and Herbs for 1 year. Someone who has inspired Benjamin along the way is his mom because she is his motivation and inspiration. He says without her positive support I would have not achieved my goals. In his free time, he enjoys riding his bike, hiking, and hanging out with friends. As for his future plans, he plans on attending Indiana State University and pursing a Bachelors degree in Engineering.
Caroline Volk, is the daughter of Michael and Rosemarie Volk. She is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High school and is a member of the Rockdale Ranchers 4-H Club. Her favorite memory is going to the fair and seeing all of the different projects everyone did. The best thing gained from 4-H is the friends that she made along the way. Her advice to first year members is to try new things and get out of your comfort zone. Some of her special honors and achievements include being in the National Honor Society. Someone who has inspired Caroline along the way was her parents because they believed in me when I thought that I couldn’t and pushing me along the way to my best and following my dreams. Activities that Caroline is in are FFA, National Honor Society, and Jag. Her hobbies included reading, playing with her pets, and being outside. As for her future plans, she plans on going to Miami University for Horticulture/Botany with a minor in Sustainability.
Chet Galyen, is the son of Marty and Laura Galyen, and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. Some of his favorite memories include walking around the livestock barns with friends. Something gained from 4-H is all the leaderships skills that he picked up over the years. His advice to a first-year member is to be open minded about projects and try something new. Some of his special honors and achievements include going to Area 7 for tractor maintenance many times and having many state fair entries. Someone who has inspired Chet along the way is his uncle Buck, because he is brave and willing to try new things. In his free time, he enjoys riding 4-wheelers, working, and cleaning his vehicles. As far as his future plans, he plans on working at Nixon Tools and getting his journeyers card through Ivy Tech.
Chloe Cowen, is the daughter of Amy and Rob Cowen, and is a 2022 Franklin County High School graduate and is a member of the Oxford Pike Pioneers 4-H Club. Some of her favorite memories from 4-H include going to Purdue University for Round Up because it was so much fun. The best thing that she has gained from 4-H is the countless of friendships that she has gained along the way. Her advice to a first-year member is to not wait until the last minute to do projects because it hard with sports and school to want or to remember to do your projects until late, but save yourself some stress. As well as don’t take these years for granted, because your fair memories will be some of the best memories you have. Some of her special honors and achievements include Junior Showmanship, Junior fashion Review Grand Champion, Letters about Literature – Honorable Mention, Dance Catz – Silver and Bronze Medalists, Dance Catz – State Champions, Dance Catz – Co-Captain, Highest honors – freshman, sophomore, and junior year, English student of the month, National Honor Society, and Showcase Dancer of the year. Someone who has inspired Chloe along the way are both of her parents because they inspire her to be the best person to her capability and they are always there to support her in everything she does. They are always working hard to achieve what they want and they inspire me to keep going after my goals no matter the hardships I may face. In her free time, Chloe enjoys dancing, playing tennis, hanging out with friends and family, and being active outside. As far as her future plans go, she plans on attending Mount St. Joe for nursing school to obtain her bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then wants to further her education in hopes of becoming a NICU or Labor and Delivery Nurse.
Crystal Welsh, is the daughter of Jason and Mandy Welsh, she is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Highland Hoosiers 4-H Club. Her favorite memories of 4-H are the memories she obtained over the years. Her advice to first year’s members is to have fun with it. Some of her special honors and achievements include winning many ribbons throughout the years. Someone who has inspired Crystal along the way is her mom because she as well did 4-H for ten years. In her free time, she enjoys playing the piano, gaming, drawing, and swimming. As far as her future plans go, she wants to work in IT.
Drew Parker, is the son of Krista Parker and the grandson to Chuck and Susan VanMeter. He is a 2022 graduate of Hamilton Southeastern High School, and is a member of the Blooming Grove Tigers 4-H Club. Some of his favorite 4-H memories includes his trip to Purdue University for Round Up. The best thing he has gained from 4-H is discipline and responsibility. His advice to a first-year member is to have fun and enjoy your projects and the fair. It goes by so fast and before long you are finishing your projects for the last time. Some of his special honors and achievements include 4-H Herdsman’s Award – 2 years, Academic All-Conference – Football, Varsity Football Starter – lettered 3 years (10, 11, 12), Varsity Rugby – lettered Freshman year, Varsity Track and Field – lettered 2 years (11, 12), Student Athletic Council Rep for Football and Track and Field and many scholarships such as the, Emerging Leaders Scholarship and Emerging Leaders Scholars Program, Margaret and John Weeks Scholarship, Indiana 4-H Foundation Senior Year Scholarship, and the Nathaniel Mroz Leadership Scholarship. Someone who has inspired Drew along the way is his mom because she has taught him the importance of hard work and resiliency. In his free time, Drew enjoys activities such as football, track & Field, and lifting weights. His hobbies and the one thing he enjoy most is hanging out with his grandparents and helping them on their farm. As far as his future plans goes, Drew plans on attending Purdue University and majoring in Agribusiness.
Eric Schwab, is the son of Greg and Melissa Schwab and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member if the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. Eric’s favorite memory of 4-H is all the friends that he has gained over time. The best thing gained from 4-H is the skills that he has learned when having to do your projects and take care of them. His advice for first year members is to always try something new and never give up. Some of his special honors and achievements include getting the Reserve Grand Champion pen with two of his sheep. Someone who has inspired Eric along the way is his grandma because she has always been there for him and always encourages him to never give up. In his free time, Eric likes to help out around the farm as well as wrestling and running cross county. As far as his future plans go, Erick plans to work as a diesel mechanic.
Gracie Singer, is the daughter of Travis and Sara Singer and is a 2022 Franklin County High School graduate and is a member of the Oxford Pike Pioneers 4-H Club. Her favorite 4-H memory is getting her calves ready for the show and the best thing gained from 4-H is learning how to work hands on and gaining lifelong friendships and memories. Her advice to first year members is that it isn’t always fun, but these will be lessons learned and remembered for a lifetime. Enjoy and be grateful for the opportunity to be in 4-H. Some of her special honors and achievements include Grand Champion intermediate Baking, Reserve Champion Steer in class, and Reserve Champion Heifer in class. Someone who has inspired Gracie along the way is her dad because he has taught her everything she needs to know about livestock and 4-H. In her free time, Gracie enjoys cheerleading, being a bleacher bum, being apart of National Honor Society, Junior Leaders, and being a MCATZ Mentor. As far as her future plans go, she plans on attending Purdue University to major in Animal Science.
J.D. Stokes, is the son of Joe and Holly Stokes and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. One of J.D.’s favorite memories of 4-H were when a bunch of goats got out of their pens and we had to chase them all. The best thing that J.D. gained from 4-H is that it’s all about helping one another out. His advice to a first-year member is that your animals are not a last-minute project, you have to spend time with them and work with them everyday in order to not fall behind. Someone who has inspired J.D. along the way is his cousin Abe Pepper because he has shown me how to be a good person throughout his life and that Abe has been a great role model for him. In his free time, J.D. enjoys playing basketball and fishing. As far as his future plans go, he plans on attending Bluffton University to play basketball while studying sports management.
Jack Stirn, is the son of Andy and Connie Stern. He is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H memory was participating in Showman of Showmen and representing the swine breed last year alongside so many great showmen. The best thing he has gained from 4-H was learning that he always has a support system around him in everything he does. He has learned to help out others in the same way he has have been uplifted and assisted by those around me. His advice for first year members is to take several projects that you enjoy to find what you want to do while in 4-H. He also advises this because as you get older, you will become more knowledgeable and advanced in your project. If it is something that you are already passionate about and enjoy, then you will become an expert by your 10th year. It may even be something you become interested in for a career as well. Some of his special honors and achievements include Grand Champion Photography, Reserve Supreme Heifer, Grand Champion Starter Calf, National Honor Society President, and Individual Tennis State Finalist. Someone who has inspired Jack along the way is his brother, Luke. While Jack would never tell him to his face, he appreciates all of the help and support he has given him throughout all 10 years of 4-H. He has helped him walk, prepare, wash, and fit about every animal he has have shown. Not only does he help Jack, but he never seems to be busy enough to come home and do the daily feeding, care for the animals, and try to make their farm a better place despite the fact that he works full-time. In Jacks free time he like to spend time playing tennis, going for a late-night drive with friends to get ice cream, discovering new music, and learning Spanish. As far as his future plans go, Jack plans to attend Indiana University Bloomington with a full ride research scholarship through the Cox Scholars program to major in Neuroscience with minors in Spanish and Linguistics. He would then like to attend med school to become a psychiatrist.
Jacob Schatzle, is the son of Christopher and Angela Schatzle and is a 2022 graduate from Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. His favorite memory would have to be getting to hang out with all my friends during the fair. The best thing he has gained is all the new friends he has found in 4-H. His advice to first year members is to try new things because it never hurts to try new projects and if you don’t like them you don’t have to do them again. Just by trying new things out, you will have learnt so much! Some of his special honors and achievements include blue ribbon in word working every year as well as a blue ribbon in word working at state fair, and champion in word working. Someone who has inspired Jacob along the way is his dad because he has always been there for everything and has always taught him new things and continues to be the best dad that he could ask for. In his free time, Jacob enjoys playing football, track & field, fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his friends. As far as his future plans go, he plans on attending Purdue University in the fall and being a part of their men’s track and field program.
Jared Niese, is the son of Randy and Julie Niese and is a 2022 graduate of Batesville High School graduate and is a member of the Superkids 4-H Club. His favorite memory from 4-H is showing his pigs as a 1st year member. The best thing he has gained from 4-H is the knowledge he has encountered with all of the animals. His advice to first year members is not to be afraid of trying new projects out. Special honors and achievements that he has gained are the State fair blue ribbon on his electric project. Someone who has inspired Jared along the way Thomas Kurtz because he makes the best out of any situation. In his free time, Jared enjoys hunting, fishing, and riding quads. As far as his future plans go, he plans in working in construction with future plans of starting his own business.
Jayme Pennington, is the daughter of Jim and Jennifer Pennington and is a 2022 graduate of East Central High School and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. Her favorite 4-H memory is going to the 4-H fair and seeing her friends and looking at all of the complete projects. Jayme had gained life skills and knowledge from her projects and project workbooks. Her favorite project is Child Development, which she was encouraged to researched different careers with child which lead to her decision of becoming an elementary school teacher. Her advice to a first-year member is to never be afraid to try new projects and learn as much as you can from the project workbooks. Try to find classes locally that may help you learn more about your project. Some of her special honors and achievements include Grand Champion for Child Development and Food Preservation. She has received many Division Champion Ribbons in Cake Decorating, Genealogy, Photography, and Shooting Sports Education and many blue ribbons in other projects. She has had many projects advanced to the Indiana State Fair and received Special Merit ribbons. Besides 4-H, she is a National Honor Society member, and received the Next Generation Hoosier Educators Scholarships. Someone who has inspired Jayme along the way is her mom because she is always pointing her in the right direction and supports her in reaching her goals. Her mom is her biggest cheerleaders and always encourages her to do her best. She is very busy with extracurricular activities and community service at her school. She is the President of the Japanese Club, FCCLA member, Drama Club member, Art Club member, and AOK Club member. In her free time, she enjoys drawing/painting, playing videogames, and hanging out with friends and family. As far as her future plans go, Jayme plans on attending Indiana University, where she is an direct admission student into the School of Education and will enroll in the Teaching All Learners program and minor in Art. Her future plans then consist of being an elementary teacher in grades 3-5.
Joshua Honnert, is the son of Tom and Christy Honnert and is a 2022 graduate of Batesville High School and is a member of the Superkids 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H H Memory is being at the fair all day and every day with his family. This was something he always looked forward to as fair time comes around every year. The best thing he have gained from 4-H is his ability to try the absolute best on everything he did. He always wanted to win, but if he didn’t, he wasn’t ever mad because he knew he tried his best. His advice to first year members is to always try something new and never shy away from opportunities that are given to you. Some of his special honors and achievements include Grand Champion Zero Turn Operator: Senior Division, Grand Champion Zero Turn Operator: Junior Division, Grand Champion Pygmy Goat Wether, Reserve Grand Champion Electric Project, State Fair Zero Turn Operator Contestant: 6th place. Someone who has inspired Joshua along the way is his day. When he was growing up, and even now, he strives to be like him. He is a humble and honest man who puts others before him. He strives to have these characteristics just like his dad does and he even wants the same job he has He owns and operates our family’s farm and works on neighbor’s farm equipment. He has already developed some of the characteristics his dad has but he knows there are plenty more he wants to gain because he inspires Joshua to be the best person he can be. In his free time, he enjoys trapshooting. As far as his future plans go, Joshua plans to attend Hobart Institute of Welding Technology.
Kelsie Brackney, is the daughter of Kevin and Melissa Brackney and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. Her favorite memory was Round Up at Purdue University. Her advice to first year members is to make sure to have fun and meet new people. The friends you make though 4-H will last you a lifetime. Some of her special honors and achievements include Photography – Grand Champion, National Honor Society, and Academic Hall of Fame. Someone who has inspired Kelsie along the way is her mom because she in the most supportive person Kelsie knows. She has taught Kelsie how to be independent and to keep a positive attitude. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, golfing, tennis, and photography. She is also involved in Junior Leaders. As far as her future plans go, she plans to attend Xavier University to obtain a degree in Biology and then attend optometry school.
Klayton Dorrel, is the son of Dustan and Melissa Dorrel and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the East Franklin Flyers 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H memories are with his family and friends while competing at the county and state fair each year. The best thing he has gained in 4-H was learning responsibility, meeting deadlines and working hard to achieve my goals. His advice to first year members is to put the time in and to work to accomplish your goals. Some of his special honors and achievements include Treasurer and President of the Franklin County FFA, Indiana FFA District 12 Historian, East Franklin Flyers President, Franklin County Junior Leaders Vice President, National Honor Society, Purdue College of Ag Junior Scholar, Multiple Grand and Reserve Champions of different species at the county and state level. Someone who has inspired Klayton along the way is his dad because he has taught Klayton so much about what goes into breeding and raising livestock. He has given Klayton a solid foundation for his future. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, playing golf, hanging out and working with his family on the farm. As far as his future plans go, he plans on attending Purdue University and studying Agronomy with a concertation in plant genetics.
Kolten Bommer, is the son of Darren and Betsy Bommer and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. Some of his favorite memories of 4-H include hanging out at the fair and being with friends. His advice to first year members is to pick something you like. Some of his special honors and achievements include being a ten-year member. Someone who has inspired Kolten along the way is his dad because he works hard. In his free time, Kolten enjoys tractor pulling and farming. As for his future plans, Kolten plans on working for the family farm.
Maria Lanning, is the daughter of Rob and Michelle Lanning and attended homeschool where she graduated 2022. She is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. Her favorite memories of 4-H include working on her photography projects and spending time at the fair with her family and friends. Her advice to a first-year member is to always seek to learn new things and to do your best while having fun. Some of her special honors and achievements include Grand Champion in the Talent Show and various champions in goats, pottery, and fine arts. Someone who has inspired Maria along the way is her Grandma Lanning and Grandma Mersch because they are hardworking, creative, and always there for her. In her free time, she enjoys soccer, ballet, photography, and spending time with friends and family. As for her future plans, Maria plans on attending college to pursue a degree in Ultrasound Technology.
Morgan Stewart, is the daughter of Matt and Kelly Stewart and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Mustangers 4-H Club. Her favorite 4-H memory was from Horse and Pony camp on game day feeding pudding to her teammate Alex blindfolded then running back. The best thing that Morgan has gained from 4-H is all the wonderful memories with her family and friends. Her advice to first year members is to have fun and don’t stress out over the littlest things. Some of her special honors and achievements include 10-year member in 4-H, Grand champion multiple years in horse and pony, National Honor Society, Highest Honors, Greenhand Degree, Chapter FFA degree. Someone who has inspired Morgan along the way is her sister, Taylor because she is always the most fun and outgoing person in the room and she is always pushing herself to be the best that she can possibly be. In her free time, Morgan enjoys soccer, 4-H, babysitting, and skiing. As for her future plans, Morgan plans on attending Indiana University of Bloomington to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in health sciences and then go into a Physician Assistant graduate school to specialize in Dermatology.
Ross Rosemeyer, is the son of Matt and Melissa Rosemeyer and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Highland Hy-flyers 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H memory is hanging out with friends in the barns and walking around the fairgrounds with his friends after show day. His advice to first year members is to try different projects that interest you, because you’ll probably find something that you really like. Some of his special honors and achievements includes winning the Meat Goat Hers Manship award two times and showman of showmen participant. Someone who has inspired Ross along the way is his parents because they are two of the hardest working people that he knows and they have taught him many valuable lessons that will stay with him for the rest of his life. In his free time, Ross enjoys hunting, fishing, showing goats, kayaking, and hanging out with friends. As for his future plans, Ross will be attending University of Cincinnati to obtain a degree in Construction management.
Saige Mergenthal, is the daughter of Jill Mergenthal and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member if Highland Hoosiers 4-H Club and FC Horse & Pony Mustangers. Her favorite memory was winning Reserve Grand Champion Halter with her horse Rusty in 2018 and also winning her 1st year Barrow class in 2013. The best thing she has gained is that 4-H has taught her that hard work does pay off in the long run. Spending countless hours with all of her 4-H friends and family preparing for fair is priceless and she wouldn’t trade these past 10 years for anything in this world. Her advice to first year members is that if your intertest in a project, try it because you never know what you like until you try it. Always remember to enjoy every moment with your 4-H family and friends because ten years goes by really fast. Some of her special honors and achievements include being President of her Highland Hoosiers 4-H club for 6 years, as well as being a 10-year member of Horse & Pony Mustangers, Sheep, Swine, and Basketry. She has received both, the Sheep and Swine Herdsman award, 2 times each. Last year, she was chosen to receive the 2021 Keith Coffey Swine Herdsman Award. She has placed Reserve Champion, Champion, Reserve Grand Champion and Grand Champion on many of her non-walking projects, Basketry, String Art, Foods and Latch hook, and with her horse, Rusty and her sheep and pigs, throughout her 10 years in 4-H. Saige also received the 2021-22 FCHS Varsity Volleyball Offensive Player of the Year Award and the FCHS Varsity Girls Basketball Wildcat Award, Best Character and Best Attitude. In 2019-20, she received the FCHS Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Most Rebounds (83) award. Other awards that she received were The Joseph D. Codiano Memorial Scholarship and The Chad Handley Memorial Scholarship. Along the way, Saige has been inspired by both Ray and Cindy Mergenthal. They have shown her that a lot of hard work does pay off in the end, and now because of their hard work, she is now the 7th generation Mergenthal to be able to grow up on the family farm. In her free time, she enjoys volleyball and has been playing for six years and basketball for eight years. She also loves showing her horses in 4-H. She loves being outdoors, jeeping, and hanging out with friends and family. As for her future plans, Saige plans on attending Ball State University to pursue a degree in Business. She has been accepted into The Miller College of Business.
Samuel Isaiah Johnson, is the son of Marvin and Robin Johnson and is a 2022 graduate of Johnson Christian Academy and is a member of Trap Masters Shotgun 4-H Club. Some of his favorite memories from 4-H include shooting trap with his sister, Kalley, and working on projects with his sister, Alainie. Being able to experience 4-H with his siblings have been a blast. The best thing gained from 4-H is all the friends and great memories he obtained along the way. His advice to first year members is to try a shooting sport. It is a great way to gain knowledge of firearms and being confident in exercising your 2nd amendment rights. Some of his special honors and achievements include several Division Champion ribbons in photography, recycling, and foods. He has always had state fair entries in photography, foods and small engines and made Grand Champion in recycling and foods. Someone who has inspired Samuel along the way is his dad, Marvin Johnson because he has shown Samuel what its like to be a Christian man and his hard work ethic and love for God inspires him to be the best he can be. His hobbies and activities include playing defense for the Indianapolis Trailblazers Soccer Club and also be a member of Oak Forest Church of Christ. In his free time, Samuel loves being outside, kayaking, fishing, shooting trap, and being with friends and family. He also enjoys working on the restoration of his 1972 C10 Chevy pick-up truck. As for his future plans, Samuel plans on working at F&M Mafco in Harrison, Ohio to pursue a career as a diesel mechanic.
Shaden Galyen, is the daughter of Marty and Laura Galyen and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. Her favorite 4-H memory was being crowned the 2021 4-H Fair Queen. The best thing that she has gained from 4-H is confidence. Her advice to first year members is to never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Some of her special honors and achievements include multiple Grand Champion projects and state fair entries, attending Area 7 and state, and being crowned 2021 4-H Fair Queen. Someone who has inspired Shaden along the way is her 4-H mentors because they always encourage her to do her best and not to be afraid to make mistakes. In her free time, she enjoys dancing and hanging out with her friends. As for her future plans, Shaden plans on attending Marian University to obtain her BSN and then becoming a nurse anesthetist.
Shelby Rosenberger, is the daughter of Tony and Jessica Rosenberger and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Oxford Pike Pioneers. Her favorite 4-H memories are spending countless hours with her family while working on her projects and just being able to enjoy the fair and all of the activities there. The best thing she has gained from 4-H are the characteristics of responsibility and the ability of being a hard worker. Her advice to first-year members is to try a new project you wouldn’t expect to like, because then maybe you will enjoy it and learn something new along the way. Some of her special honors and achievements include Grand Champion Non-Wearable Sewing Three Times, 10 Year Swine Member, inducted into the National Honor Society, currently ranked 9th in my graduating class, Top Ten Percent of my graduating class, Received Academic Highest Honor Roll, Indiana’s High School Intern of the Year, Academic All-Conference, and FCHS Softball Teammate Award. Someone who has inspired Shelby along the way is her leader of her 4-H group and all the mentors that have helped her along the way with her projects. They taught her the importance of always putting forth her best effort into everything she does. Some of her hobbies and activities include hanging out with friends and family, listening to music, and watching movies. As well as being a part of FCHS Student Council, FCHS Tennis, National Honor Society, MCATZ, Bleacher Bums and Junior Leaders. As for her future plans go, Shelby plans on attending Northern Kentucky University to obtain a Psychology degree and later becoming a mental health counselor.
Parker Chesnut, is the son of Dan and Maria Chesnut and is a 2022 graduate of Union County High School and is a member of the Oxford Pike Pioneers 4-H Club. His favorite memory of 4-H is receiving Champion All other Breeds and Reserve Champion Red Angus at the Indiana State Fair. It was such an honor to participate in the Grand Heifer Drive. Throughout his years, the best thing gained from 4-H was the confidence he obtained. His advice to first-year members is work hard and sometimes you win, sometimes you learn. Showmanship starts at home. You form a bond with your animal when you work with it daily. You both get into a routine and this bond will be obvious to those who watch you while you are in the showring. Some of his special honors and achievements include having success within each project of swine, beef, and tractor driving. Someone who has inspired Parker along the way is his Grandpa, Roy Chesnut, because he has taught him so much that he doesn’t even know where to start! Some of his hobbies and activities include being in FFA and competing with his show case claves at state and national levels. As far as his future plans go, Parker plans on attending University of Northwestern of Ohio, to obtain a diesel technology certificate.
Mark Wolfe, is the son of Jeremy and Amy Wolfe and is a 2022 graduate of Oldenburg Academy and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. His favorite memory of 4-H is winning Champion homegrown medium weight wether goat in 2004. His advice to first year members is that it goes so quick so don’t stress over the little things and enjoy the experience. Some of Mark’s special honors and achievements include graduating high school with academic honors diploma. Someone who inspires mark, is David Goggins. David Goggins is a former Navy Seal known for his ultramarathon performances, motivational speaking, and pull ups – he set the world record in 2013 of doing 4,030 pull-ups in seventeen hours. He inspires Mark because he pushed him to his limits, physically and mentally, and shows him that you are capable of exceeding what you think is possible. In his free time, mark enjoys golfing, weightlifting, and shooting guns. As for his future plans, Mark plans on joining the Navy to pursue a career in air traffic control.
Autumn Bruns, is the daughter of Doug and Lisa Bruns and is a 2022 graduate of East Central High School and is a member of the Oxford Pike Pioneers 4-H Club. Her favorite 4-H memory is winning Champion in the barrow weight class as well as camping during the fair and hanging out with her friends the whole week. Her advice to first year members is there are so many projects to try, so if you don’t love one, be adventurous and try another. Someone who has inspired Autumn along the way is her sister, because she is her older sibling and she looks up to her. Everything she did, Autumn was always right there to follow behind, and she was good at everything that’s what Autumn was so inspired by her. Some of her activities and hobbies include 4H, choir, photography, and drama club. As for her future plans, she will be attending Paul Mitchell School for Cosmetology.
Tyler Wuestefeld, is the son of Tim and Teresa Wuestefeld and is a 2022 graduate of Oldenburg Academy and is a member of the Highland Hy-Flyers 4-H Club. His favorite memory of 4-H is shooting trap with his friends during their shotgun 4-H group. His advice to first-year members is to do as many 4-H activities as you can and learn all you can from them. Some of his special honors and achievements include being in the National Honors Society and Academic All-State for swimming. Someone who has inspired Tyler along the way is his family because they have done so much for him. In his free time, Tyler enjoys swimming and playing baseball. As far as his future plans go, Tyler will be attending Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology to obtain a major in Mechanical Engineering. While at Rose-Hulman, Tyler will also be competing on the school swim team.
Joseph Riffle, is the son of Angie and Don Riffle and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Whitcomb Boosters 4-H Club. His favorite memory from 4-H is The Marker Space Summit in Washington D.C. The best thing he has gained from 4-H is the responsibility for caring for animals. His advice to first-year members is to stick with 4-H and take the opportunities it gives you. Some of Joseph’s special honors and achievements include multiple Grand Champions in Geology, Small Engines, and Computers. As well as State Fair Sweep Stakes Winner for Computers, Grand Champion for Electric in Youth Volunteer Award, 4-H Overall Achievement Winner for Franklin County and selected to attend The National Maker Space Summit In Washington D.C. Someone who has inspired Joseph along the way is Jim Henson because everything that he created and did was to make people happy and every person that has talked about working with him said he was extremely kind and fun to be around and Joseph hopes to be like that. As far as his future plans go, Joseph plans on attending Ball State University to continue his education.
Ayrton Graziano, is the son of Steve and Sara Graziano and attends Cathedral High School and is a member of the Blooming Grove Tigers 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H memory is winning Grand Champion Meat Pen his first year of being in 4-H. The best thing that he has gained from 4-H, is learning from his club leader, Beth, how important it is to be in 4-H. His advice to first year members is to work hard and enjoy what you do because the ten years go by very fast. Some of his special honors and achievements include winning Grand champion meat pen, reserve grand champion roaster, champion light-weight market goat, champion and reserve champion on my sports posters. In his Jr. high school 8th grade year, he received the Selfless Service Award and he was in the National Art Society. During his first year of high school soccer, I was awarded the Up and Comer award. In my junior year of high school soccer playing for the Varsity team, he was awarded the 2021 ISCA Academic All-State. He is also a member of the National Honor Society. Someone who has inspired Ayrton along the way is his family because they are always supportive of him and they have made him who he is today. His hobbies include playing soccer, golf, and basketball. He also plays travel soccer for Indy Premier Elite 1/EA Academy and he plays CYO basketball at Holy Spirit at Geist. Ayrton is also a licensed state soccer referee. After he graduates from Cathedral High School in 2023, Ayrton plans on attending college to become an orthodontist and play college soccer.
Brianna Bentley, is the daughter of Renee Bentley and is a 2022 graduate of Franklin County High School and is a member of the Blooming Grove Tigers 4-H Club. Her favorite memory of 4-H is winning Grand Champion because she felt like all of her hard work had finally paid off. The best thing that Brianna learned from 4-H is learning how to get things done on time. Her advice to first year members is to never procrastinate. Some of her special honors and achievements include winning five Grand Champions, two Reserve Grand Champions, and five of Brianna’s projects were sent to state. Someone that has inspired Brianna along the way is her mom because she shows her that she is able to overcome anything that she puts her mind to. Some of her hobbies and activities include 4H, band, music, and drama club. As for her future plans, Brianna plans to attend Marian University to obtain her Bachelors degree in Social Work and minor in Pastoral Leadership, Spanish, and Sociology.
Nicholas Wendel, no biography submitted.