MSU Extension 4-H Volunteering & Mentoring

Five outstanding 4-H leaders were honored with 2026 Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards: Erica Drake of Washtenaw County, Cathy Fry of Isabella County, Melissa Gordon of Monroe County, Bryan Shirk of Branch County and Michelle Short of Macomb County. The 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Awards recognize the outstanding achievements of Michigan 4-H volunteers or groups that have exhibited excellence in 4-H youth education and leadership development in the areas of 4-H beef cattle; dairy cattle; goats; horses; horticulture, crops and soils; poultry; rabbits; sheep; swine and veterinary science.

MFB 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award honorees are recognized by Michigan State University Extension, Michigan 4-H and MFB. Each receives a $1,000 grant, funded by the MFB 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Endowment at the Michigan 4-H Foundation. Awardees use the grants to help support a 4-H agricultural program of their choosing, or for volunteer training, supplies or curricula to enhance 4-H programming locally and statewide. Honorees will also receive a personalized recognition memento and be honored at the Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration scheduled for October 3 in Lansing.

Erica Drake, Washtenaw County

A fourth-generation farmer and 4-H alumna, Drake has dedicated her time and expertise to helping young people discover the opportunities and life skills agriculture provides. Through numerous volunteer leadership roles in Washtenaw County 4-H, including co-leading the Country Expressions 4-H Club and supporting dairy and livestock programs, she creates meaningful experiences that build agricultural knowledge, leadership and confidence. Drake coaches youth for state and national dairy competitions, mentors scholarship applicants and introduces thousands of students to agriculture through Project Rural Education Days. Known for her encouragement and commitment to youth development, she inspires young people to pursue leadership opportunities and reach their full potential. Her service to 4-H, agriculture and the broader community has made a lasting impact on Washtenaw County youth and programs.

Cathy Fry, Isabella County

For 28 years, Fry has helped young people discover the opportunities, skills and values found through agriculture. As leader of the Isabella County Dairy Dreamers 4-H Club, she has created hands-on learning experiences that build agricultural knowledge, leadership and confidence while inspiring youth to explore agricultural careers. Through initiatives such as the Moo Madness event and the 4-H in Agriculture Learning Series, Fry connects youth with real-world experiences in dairy production, livestock, crops and emerging technologies. Beyond agricultural education, she empowers young people to lead service projects, serve their communities and become ambassadors for agriculture and 4-H. Her mentorship has helped youth achieve state and national success in dairy competitions while developing the critical thinking, communication and leadership skills needed for lifelong success.

Melissa Gordon, Monroe County

A former Monroe County 4-H horse member, Gordon stepped into leadership when the county’s horse program faced challenges and successfully revitalized it through innovation and inclusion. As general superintendent, she expanded opportunities by adding the Ranch Horse Division, implementing a skill-based leveling system and creating the Monroe Equine Development Program, which engaged youth with and without horses. Her efforts helped grow enrollment from 60 to 170 members in just two years. Beyond the county level, Gordon shared her expertise through statewide leadership and educational presentations. She also encouraged youth leadership, mentorship and community service while helping secure funding for facility improvements. Through her vision and dedication, Gordon has created lasting opportunities that strengthen 4-H, equine education and youth development across Michigan.

Bryan Shirk, Branch County

A former Branch County 4-H exhibitor, Shirk returned to the program after college to help provide the same opportunities that shaped his own future. As president of the Branch County Fair Board and former small animal superintendent, he prepares youth for success through rabbit, cavy and poultry workshops and other educational programs that build agricultural knowledge, leadership and confidence. His impact extends statewide through his work updating the 4-H Rabbit Showmanship Guide, supporting the State 4-H Rabbit Show, serving as a licensed rabbit and poultry judge and contributing to the development of new poultry education resources. Committed to expanding access to agriculture, Shirk donates animals to youth who may not otherwise participate, helping more young people develop responsibility, skills and a passion for agriculture.

Michelle Short, Macomb County

Short has dedicated her volunteer service to helping young people explore the opportunities available through agriculture and 4-H. As president of the Macomb County 4-H Horse Committee, horse superintendent and member of the Macomb County Fair Board, she creates hands-on experiences that build skills in horsemanship, animal care, livestock management and agricultural responsibility. She supports a wide range of projects, from horses and livestock to floriculture and horticulture, helping youth develop confidence, leadership and practical knowledge. Through service initiatives such as fundraising events and community projects, she encourages young people to connect their skills to a greater purpose. Her involvement with Project Rural Education Days also expands agricultural literacy by introducing students and families to agriculture, food production and agricultural career opportunities.

To make a tribute gift through the Michigan 4-H Foundation in honor of these outstanding individuals, visit mi4hfdtn.org/memorialtributedonation/. To learn more about the MFB 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award and honorees, visit https://mi4hfdtn.org/4-h-emerald-awards/michigan-farm-bureau-4-h-excellence-in-agriculture-award/.