Danykah Muck shares her 4-H story at Michigan 4-H Day at the Capitol

Jamie Wilson<jmwilson@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension - February 09, 2026

Livingston County 4-H’er Danykah Muck shared her 4-H story during Michigan 4-H Day at the Capitol on Oct. 8, inspiring legislators and guests with how 4-H has shaped her leadership and life skills.

Danykah Muck delivering a speech from a 4-H podium. — Livingston County 4-H’er Danykah Muck shared her 4-H story during Michigan 4-H Day at the Capitol on Oct. 8, inspiring legislators and guests with how 4-H has shaped her leadership and life skills.

On Oct. 8, 2025, Michigan State University Extension hosted the third Michigan 4-H Day at the Capitol, bringing together legislators, stakeholders and 4-H supporters to showcase the positive impact of Michigan 4-H. Held at the Capitol Visitor’s Center, the event featured powerful testimonials from 4-H youth, alumni and champions about how 4-H changes lives.

Among the speakers was Danykah Muck, a 16-year-old Livingston County 4-H member who has been active in 4-H since age five. Her projects span animal science, metal art, woodworking, leadership and community service. Today, she serves in leadership roles locally and statewide, including the Michigan 4-H State Youth Leadership Council and the Michigan 4-H Spectacular Youth Leadership Institute Steering Committee.

“Not only have I learned how to raise animals and create amazing projects through 4-H, but it's also helped me to be on this stage right now,” said Muck during her speech. “4-H has shaped me into a better leader, making sure I keep an open mind and stay calm in tough situations.”

She closed with a powerful message:

“4-H changes youths' lives and fills spaces that need to be filled with positive youth development through programs where we learn valuable life skills. 4-H staff and volunteers work to help youth know they are leaders of today, not just tomorrow.”

Watch Muck's full remarks at www.canr.msu.edu/videos/michigan-4-h-spotlight-danykah-muck.

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