The spirit of leadership, community service and agricultural pride took center stage Oct. 9 as Okmulgee County 4-H hosted its annual Achievement Banquet, recognizing the accomplishments of youth from across the county. The event was made possible through support from Okmulgee County Farm Bureau, MCN Ag Youth, Oklahoma AgCredit and countless 4-H supporters who continue to invest in local youth development.

The banquet opened with a warm welcome from Shelby Lofton, followed by the traditional 4-H Pledge led by Co-President Michael Gryder. Natalie Norem guided attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, and Shyan Snelson offered the invocation, underscoring the values that define 4-H – Head, Heart, Hands and Health.

Dripping Springs OHCE provided dinner for the evening, as families and community members gathered to applaud a year’s worth of growth, skill-building and leadership.

— Celebrating Service & Leadership A slate of special awards highlighted the strong foundation of mentorship and motivation that drives Okmulgee County’s 4-H program:

• Leadership Appreciation Award Shelby Lofton & 4-H Officers

• Special Appreciation Award – 4-H Officers

• Friends of 4-H Award – 4-H Officers • Honorary 4-H Member – 4-H Officers • Leader of the Year Award – Natalie Norem

• Special NE District Award – Brooklyn Cowan

• Special County Recognition Award – Shelby Lofton

• Shoemake Award – Lynda Shoemake Youth across the county were also honored with County Medals and recognition for outstanding record books, highlighting achievements in livestock, citizenship, food and nutrition and project development.

— Record Book Medalists Dewar

• Shyan Snelson – Goats

• Cash Stotler – Goats Preston

• Natalie Norem – Cattle Twin Hills

• JJ Bonebrake – Citizenship

• Elli Lewis – Sheep & Gate Sign

• Chief Bourne – Food & Nutrition & Gate Sign Wilson

• Michael Gryder – Goats

• Markee Gryder – Cattle

• Jezminda Smith – Rabbits & Gate Sign — Recognizing Current & Future Leaders The evening also included the installation of county officers for both the current and upcoming leadership year – students who will guide events, meetings and outreach efforts as peer leaders within the program.

2024-25 County 4-H Officers

• Co-Presidents: Michael Gryder & Natalie Norem

• Secretary: Cash Stotler

• Jr. Treasurer: Evie Oaks

• Reporter: Aidyn Diamond & Eddie Taylor

• Recreation: Kaitlyn Alexander

• Project Leaders: Barron King, Tucker King & Lou Hicks — 2025-26 County 4-H Officers

• President: Natalie Norem

• Vice President: Shyan Snelson

• Secretary: Markee Gryder

• Treasurer: Michael Gryder

• Historian: Cash Stotler

• Jr. Historians: Eita Breen, Jezminda Smith & Derek Smith

• Public Relations: Callie England & Erin Breen

• Recreation: Kaitlyn Alexander, Attisyn Larney & Jamie Biggs -Organizers shared their appreciation for all who contributed to making the banquet a success, recognizing Okmulgee County Farm Bureau, MCN Ag Youth, Oklahoma AgCredit and all 4-H supporters for their dedication to positive youth development locally.