A Note from the President

Hello Wisconsin Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals,

It’s an honor to serve as your new President for the Wisconsin Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals. I’m excited to help guide and support the great work being done across our state by passionate, creative, and dedicated youth development professionals, like yourselves.

WAE4-HYDP continues to be a vibrant network committed to promoting, strengthening, and advocating for both 4-H and the youth development profession in Wisconsin. As an affiliate of the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals, we’re part of something bigger, working to develop personal and professional competencies that make a lasting impact.

We grow together by:

• Championing Positive Youth Development (PYD) practices that make programs meaningful and relevant

• Modeling leadership and integrity in our work and our communities

• Building strong, inclusive environments where young people thrive

• Embracing the future of youth development with innovation and purpose

This association isn’t just about professional development; it’s about connection. It’s about finding your people. The ones who understand the why behind what you do. It’s about gaining access to opportunities that help you grow, both personally and professionally. And yes, it’s also about earning those awards and recognition for the great work that you do that helps your County Administrator say “Wow.”

For the past couple of years, I have served the association as President-Elect and as an Eastern Region Representative. I have been with Extension for seven years as the 4-H Program Educator in Outagamie County.  What I love most about my job is knowing that we have the ability to positively impact the Thriving trajectory of the youth who participate in our programs. Watching young people discover their sparks, find their voice, and become strong leaders through the support of caring adults seems like a small miracle to me. I am continually inspired by the growth I see in our youth and in our colleagues who make it all happen. A few fun facts about myself: I started riding and showing horses as an adult, and last year my horse and I took 2nd place out of 62 at our final Hunter show of the season! I really enjoy painting and teaching watercolor. I love adventures, food, and coffee!

As we move into this next year, I invite you to stay connected, get involved, and lean into the support this association offers. Let’s continue to lift each other up and keep moving 4-H forward in Wisconsin.

In service,

Alicia Schroeder-Haag, WAE4-HYDP President