This release was issued under a previous government.

Jess Verstappen, High Prairie, 2014 4-H Premier's Award recipient

Rod Carlyon, Agriculture and Rural Development, presents Jess Verstappen with the 4-H Premier’s Award trophy

The grade 12 student from High Prairie was chosen from among the province’s top senior 4-H members as the Premier’s Award Recipient during the 57th 4-H Alberta Selections Event, held at Olds College this past weekend.

“It’s youth like Jess who are continuing to shape our thriving agriculture industry through their dedication to 4-H and their rural communities. I congratulate her for her hard work and achievements.”

Dave Hancock, Premier of Alberta

In addition to announcing the 4-H Premier’s Award Recipient, 14 senior 4-H delegates were named as 4-H Alberta Ambassadors to promote 4-H and youth involvement in Alberta. 4-H Alberta has also selected 43 members to represent 4-H Alberta at major educational events and conferences throughout Canada and the United States.

“As the longest-running youth organization in our province, 4-H is part of our province’s strong agricultural foundation and ensures our rich history and success continues by helping shape our future rural leaders. Congratulations to Jess and the 2014 ambassadors for their exemplary leadership and commitment to 4-H and their communities.”

Veryln Olson, Minister, Agriculture and Rural Development

The winner of the prestigious award represents 4-H Alberta at various regional and agricultural events throughout the year and will also have the opportunity to meet with the Premier and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.

About Jess Verstappen

  • Member of the Coyote Acres 4-H Club;
  • 4-H projects include: small engines, market steer, ewe lamb, mature ewe, market lamb, and light horse; and
  • Hobbies include: rodeo, horse riding and helping out on the farm.

A complete list of ambassadors and winners is available on the Agriculture and Rural Development website.

Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.