Journey as a Teen Leader: 2026-2027 NC 4-H State Officer Applications are Open!

(Updated: April 1, 2026, 1:49 p.m.)
State 4-H Officers, wearing their official green jacket attire, posed together for a group photo at the NC 4-H booth of the 2025 N.C. State Fair.

Are you ready to take your leadership to the next level? North Carolina 4-H is officially seeking passionate, dedicated, and driven candidates for the 2026-2027 State 4-H Officer Team. Serving as a State Officer is a premier opportunity to be the voice of our organization and to act as a role model and ambassador for youth across the state.

Why Apply?

State Officers gain unparalleled experience in public speaking, program planning, and civic engagement. You will work closely with State 4-H staff to lead statewide events like State 4-H Congress and the State 4-H Council Conference.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the State 4-H Officer position, you must:

  • Be an active 4-H member in good standing
  • Be 16–18 years old as of January 1, 2026
  • Have at least two years of 4-H experience
  • Have served as a District Officer
  • Show strong leadership and commitment to 4-H

Important Deadlines & Dates

  • Application Deadline: May 15, 2026, by 5:00 p.m.
  • Mandatory Zoom for Nominees: May 19, 2026
  • In-Person Interviews: May 29-30, 2026
  • Candidate Campaigning: July 20-24, 2026 (During 4-H Congress)

Application Checklist

Your application must include:

  • A 2-page resume highlighting your 4-H and leadership experience
  • A 2–3 minute video answering: What makes you a strong candidate for State Officer?
  • Two letters of recommendation
    • One from a County 4-H staff member
    • One from a non-relative
  • A completed application packet, including all required forms and signatures

How to Start

Visit the State 4-H Council webpage to review the 2026-2027 candidate guidelines and access the application.

All materials must be submitted electronically through the official application form, which is available within the State Officer Application.

Join Us in Making a Difference

This is your opportunity to grow as a leader, represent North Carolina 4-H, and make a lasting impact.

Review the 2026–2027 Candidate Guidelines and apply by Friday, May 15, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Learn More

This is your chance to step up, take the lead, and be a voice for 4-H members across the state. We seek dedicated, passionate, and innovative individuals ready for this rewarding challenge as a 2026-2027 State 4-H Officer.

If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. Daniel P. Collins, State 4-H Specialist and State 4-H Council Advisor.

Together, we can make the 2026-2027 4-H year the best yet.

Making the Best Better,
Dr. Daniel P. Collins