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The 4-H Military Partnership Leadership Academy supports Extension professionals working with military-connected youth as they understand themselves as leaders, understand others as leaders of an organization, and understand leadership at the community level. The focus connects leadership concepts to work with military-connected audiences and increases the participants’ capacity to enhance programming across the enterprise.
Through select readings, experiential learning, and group discussions, Academy participants will explore leadership components to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities while working with military connected youth and programs. Participants will visit military Child and Youth Programs to learn about local partnerships, determine 4-H best practices, and understand how 4-H can support and enhance experiences for military-connected youth. Each session introduces specific leadership strategies and identifies best practices and techniques to build strong partnerships within military-connected youth programs. After completing the Leadership Academy training, observing strong partnerships in action, and reflecting on personal experiences, participants will have a greater understanding of effective leadership strategies to help build partnerships in the community. During the 4-HMP Leadership Academy, participants will develop and complete a capstone project to address a need and make a positive impact in their community. |
Testimonials“I probably use something from the Leadership Academy in my work every day.”
"I enjoyed the connection, the camaraderie, and learning about how others are leading their programs.” “My favorite part of the Academy is the network and having a group of professionals to call, ask questions, and share ideas.” “We’re in the people business and so often we focus on everyone but ourselves. The Leadership Academy has let us focus on ourselves in a non-selfish way." “Through this program, I have a better understanding of the Installations and have gained a working partnership with our local school liaison.” |
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4-HMPLA requires a significant time commitment. Participants commit to attend 3 in-person regional training sessions (Tues-Thurs), travel time to locations, and connect at least once virtually between each of the sessions. Due to this required time commitment, applicants must acquire their supervisor's permission before submiting an application.
4-HMPLA training dates and locations include: o February 16-20, 2026, Norfolk, VA (travel on Feb 16 & 20) o May 11-15, 2026, St. Louis, MO (travel on May 11 & 15) o August 3 - 7, 2026, TBD (travel on Aug 3 & 7) In addition to the in-person trainings, 4-H Military Partnership Leadership Academy participants will connect virtually and must attend a virtual orientation prior to the first meeting. |
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For Questions and Additional Information
David Brittain [email protected] or Erica Thomas-Pullen [email protected] |
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"This work is supported by the Children, Youth and Families at Risk 4-H Military Partnership Professional Development and Technical Assistance Program, project award no. 2022-41520-38161, from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture."
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