4-H Senior Feature: Jenna Messer

Washington County 4-H seeks to recognize the members of its organization who are making a difference in their community. This week, Washington County 4-H is featuring Jenna Messer.

Jenna Messer

Hometown: Washington

Parents: Mark & Julie Messer

School: Washington High School

4-H Club: Washington Go-Getters

Projects: Communication events (Working Exhibits, Taste of Iowa, Educational Presentations), Clothing events ($15 Challenge, Clothing Selection, Fashion Revue); Foods & Nutrition projects; Visual Arts; Photography; Surprise Design

4-H Activities: Washington Go Getters President (2020-2021), Vice President (2021-2022) State of Iowa Communication Award; State of Iowa Foods & Nutrition Award

Special 4-H memory/highlight: I have had a great time at the Washington County Fair with the communication and clothing events especially. Another exciting time I remember is receiving the Washington County Foods & Nutrition award two times and interviewing for the State Project Area Awards. And probably more than anything, I have valued volunteering at the 4-H after school cooking programs and getting to know the members of my club.

What 4-H means to me: 4-H has changed my life. I started 4-H as a very shy 4th grader and through giving presentations, working on communication projects like Working Exhibits and Taste of Iowa, volunteering and teaching, and talking to judges at the fair I have gained confidence in myself and my abilities.

Other Activities: Marching, Pep, Concert & Jazz Band; National Honor Society; Speech Teams; Costuming/Sewing for WHS plays; working as a Page at the Washington Public Library

Future plans: I plan to double major in Secondary Education (Science) and either Communication Disorders or Pre-Optometry at Truman State University.