North Carolina 4-H is proud to announce the youth selected through the 2026 AIRE (Application, Interview, Resume, and Essay) process to represent the state at premier national 4-H leadership experiences. The delegates were announced during 4-H Congress, where interviews for the AIRE selection process were also held.

Each year, NC 4-H members ages 14–18 participate in AIRE, the competitive selection process for national leadership opportunities. Participants submit an application, resume and essay before completing a face-to-face interview. Together, these experiences help youth develop the life skills needed for college admissions, scholarships, internships and future careers while also competing for the chance to represent North Carolina at National 4-H Congress, National 4-H Conference, and National Leadership Conference.

"We want to congratulate each of the young people selected through the AIRE process to represent North Carolina 4-H at these premier national leadership experiences," said Dr. Shannon McCollum, interim state 4-H program leader. "Being chosen is a significant accomplishment that reflects each applicant's dedication, leadership, and commitment to personal growth."

McCollum emphasized that the AIRE process benefits every participant, not just those selected.

"While we celebrate those selected, the true value of AIRE extends far beyond the final results. Through the application, resume, essay, and interview process, every participant develops essential skills that prepare them for college admissions, scholarships, internships, and future careers. These experiences help our young people become Beyond Ready, and we are excited to see the impact they will make as ambassadors for North Carolina 4-H at the national level."

2026 AIRE Winners

National 4-H Congress

• Autumn Hatcher – Brunswick County
• Therese Eitzenberger – Cabarrus County
• Kaytlin Thompson – Catawba County
• Taylor Morgan – Currituck County
• Karleigh Meads – Currituck County
• Abigail Poirrier – Currituck County
• Claire Hedrick – Davidson County
• Lucy Duran – Davidson County
• Bella Hedrick – Davidson County
• Amanda Davis – Durham County
• Daniel Nosbusch – Durham County
• Jada Smith – Edgecombe County
• Lucy Mehaffey – Forsyth County
• Holly Thornburg – Franklin County
• Kendal Thornburg – Franklin County
• Cameron Byrd – Halifax County
• Alyssa Hart – Henderson County
• Knox Van Esmt – New Hanover County
• Jade Crutchfield – Pitt County
• Mackenzie Odom – Tyrrell County
• Sophie Ward – Wilson County
• Jacob Thomason – Wilson County
• Rebekah Crouse – Yadkin County

National 4-H Conference

• Eli Dillon – Caldwell County
• Leah Frick – Davie County
• Galyce Ham – Nash County
• Rilen Wright – Randolph County

National Leadership Conference

• Ethan Greer – Davidson County
• Eli Kicklighter – Wilson County

Congratulations to this year's winners! We wish each of you the very best as you represent North Carolina 4-H, build new friendships and develop your leadership skills alongside 4-H members from across the country.