Gilbert High graduate Lindsey Scott delivered the State Teen Council President’s Message at the 56th annual South Carolina State 4-H Congress. The awards were presented at a banquet that served as the culmination of the Congress. It ran from July 11-14 at Clemson, and was highlighted by activities, assemblies, day trips, workshops and more. Scott spoke in front of more than 200 young people, family members, Clemson Extension agents and volunteers. Her unexpected introduction to 4-H came in middle school. A friend extended an out-of-the-blue invitation to participate in dairy judging. Scott’s family had kept cows for as long as she could remember. “Who knows? I could be good at (dairy judging),” she remembered thinking. She didn’t have much time to prepare, the state competition would be the next day in Clemson.

Scott found early success, even with limited preparation. She finished third in the state in that first event. She went on to find longterm gratification. She competed both as an individual and as part of a team at the state and national levels.

Looking back, Scott realizes how that chance invitation profoundly changed her life. “(Cattle) quickly became a hobby that brought so many lessons and relationships that I loved,” she said. “I often think back to the day when I was standing outside of school waiting for my ride... It amazes me to think that if I had not been standing outside of school that day, I would not be standing in front of you all today.”

Scott was also one of the four winners of the organization’s top prize, the 4-H Presidential Tray. “The South Carolina 4-H Presidential Tray is the highest honor that a 4-H’er can achieve,” said Pam Ardern, State 4-H program leader. “It is the result of many years of dedication and hard work.”

The 4-H Presidential Tray is a $2,000 educational scholarship. The award is designed to recognize the top four Senior 4-H members who are National 4-H Congress and/or National 4-H Conference alumni. To win the tray, they must have outstanding accomplishments in 4-H leadership, citizenship and project work.

South Carolina State 4-H winners recognized for outstanding achievements in 4-H projects and activities included Allie Trotter, Ulmer and Hailey Williamson of Lexington County.

“This event has truly helped us grow as individuals, leaders and as a state organization,” Scott said. “All of our workshops and projects have been based on this year’s theme of ‘Under the Big Top.’ On the first day of Congress, I told everyone that life is a circus. ...some days you’re the ringleader and some days you’re the clown.”