Local 4-H Educators Honored At National Conference

KENDALL COUNTY, IL — 4-H Youth Development Educators Donna Nuger and Amy Henschen were recognized for excellence at the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents awards ceremony Nov. 7 during the group’s national meeting. Both professionals currently serve University of Illinois Extension in DuPage, Kane and Kendall Counties.

Donna Nuger received a Distinguished Service Award for her work in science, technology, and engineering programs, which expanded 4-H participation and youth science programming in northeastern Illinois. Working with more than 15 partner organizations, 4-H robotics clubs now reach more than 400 youth a year. Nuger also guides the 4-H Teen Science Ambassadors who teach peers in a range of topics, from soil conservation and environmental science to computer science and aerospace engineering. She led a group of teens to the National Ag Innovators Conference in Washington D.C. and then mentored the group for a year-long program teaching soil conservation to hundreds of their peers.

“Donna’s attitude of making things possible, her ability to think creatively to solve problems, and her genuine belief in the capabilities of others is always evident,” said Christina Heidrich, 4-H parent and volunteer. “Donna has the unique ability to connect and understand people and somehow extract and elevate the essence of who they are through conversation, activities, assignment, and mentorship.”

Nuger began her career with the University of Illinois Extension in 2004 as a 4-H Youth Development Educator for Kankakee County. “I love my work, and the part of my job I enjoy most is the relationships that I build with the youth and families,” she said. “I get to watch these kids grow and become adults who I feel will do great things in the world.”

Amy Henschen earned a National Communicator Award for the news story division at the national event. While the award was earned during her time with Colorado State University Extension, Henschen joined University of Illinois Extension in July 2019 as a 4-H Youth Development Educator.

Her award-winning news release recognized the work of a local 4-H member who put together a statewide leadership camp and community service project. Previously, Henschen has received national communicator awards for news stories and periodical publications. She also received the group's Excellence in Educational Technology award and the Achievement in Service award.

“It feels great to be recognized for celebrating the achievements of outstanding 4-H members,” said Henschen. “I know firsthand that 4-H provides youth with the skills they need to succeed in school, work and life. It’s so rewarding to be able to work for an organization that helped make me the person I am today.”

Henschen grew up in Lake County, Illinois, where she was an active 4-H member. She worked in marketing and public relations before serving in the Peace Corps in Paraguay. Upon returning to the United States, she worked for six years as a 4-H youth development agent with Colorado State University.

This story was first sent out as a news release by the University of Illinois Extension. To learn more about 4-H programs in DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties, visit https://go.illinois.edu/info4H...