Young named outstanding 4-H alumnus
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EmailWashtenaw County 4-H alumnus Emma J. Young, of Detroit, was among nine 4-H alumni inducted into the 2026 class of the Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society at a ceremony on Oct. 3.
Washtenaw County 4-H alumnus Emma Young, of Detroit, is among nine 4-H alumni inducted into the 2026 class of the Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society. Young was recognized on Oct. 3 during the Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration hosted by Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan 4-H Foundation at the MSU University Club in Lansing.
The Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society honors former Michigan 4-H members whose professional leadership and community service reflect the ultimate outcome of 4-H membership – extraordinary use of an individual’s head, heart, hands and health to make communities, the country and the world better places in which to live. This recognition is provided by Michigan 4-H Youth Development with support from the Michigan 4-H Foundation.
Young has emerged as a leader in public policy and public service, building a career dedicated to improving opportunities for Michigan's children, youth and families. As a graduate of MSU’s James Madison College, she earned degrees in social relations and policy and international relations with a minor in Arabic. She has quickly distinguished herself as a trusted advisor and advocate.
Across five years serving Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration, Young has earned four promotions, advancing from issue specialist to her current title as deputy director of policy. In this role, she oversees the development and implementation of the governor's policy agenda across key issue areas, including early childhood, K-12 and higher education. Her rapid progression of leadership and expertise has been recognized through appointments as a commissioner to both the Education Commission of the States and the Midwest Higher Education Compact.
Young's passion for public service was shaped by her Michigan 4-H experience. As an 11-year member of the Washtenaw County 4-H program, Young served as her club president for two years and as Miss Congeniality of the Chelsea Community Fair. At the state level, Young served on the Michigan 4-H State Youth Leadership Council, represented Michigan at the National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C., and participated in Michigan 4-H Capitol Experience before returning as a volunteer leader.
“4-H had a profound impact on both my personal and professional development and helped shape the path that ultimately led me to a career in public service,” said Young. “Many of the skills I rely on today in state government—including leadership, communication, collaboration and public engagement—can be traced directly to the foundation I built through 4-H. I am grateful for the opportunities 4-H provided and for the lasting impact it has had on my life.”
Beyond her work in government, Young has served as a court-appointed special advocate, helping foster children and families navigate complex systems and advocating for children's best interests in court proceedings. As an MSU student, Young served as a sexual assault and relationship violence peer educator.
Also inducted into the 4-H Emerald Clover Society Class of 2026 were: Dalen W. Agnew, Williamston; Beverly K. Ferris Hain, Jenison; Benjamin J. LaCross, Lake Leelanau; Elizabeth A. Manwell, Canton; State Rep. Gerald A. Neyer, Shepherd; Judith K. Paulsen, Hartland; Jackie A. Rider, Durand; and Roxanne S. Turner, Fowlerville. Michigan 4-H Emerald Clover Society members are inducted every two years. The inaugural class of 62 members was inducted in 2002. For more information on the 4 H Emerald Clover Society and its members, visit www.mi4hfdtn.org/ecs.
Other honorees recognized at the 2026 Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration included partners receiving the 2026 Michigan 4-H Citation Award, volunteers awarded the 2025 and 2026 Michigan 4-H Salute to Excellence Awards, volunteers awarded the 2025 and 2026 Michigan Farm Bureau Excellence in Agriculture Awards, 50-year 4-H volunteers recognized in 2025 and 2026, winners of the 2025 and 2026 MSU 4-H Scholarship, and 4-H staff retiring since 2024. To make a donation in tribute of Young or another awardee, visit https://mi4hfdtn.org/memorial-tribute-gifts/.
