The Oceana County 4-H community came together for its annual 4-H Awards Ceremony and Market Meetings at the West Michigan Research Center in Hart on Sunday, Oct. 26. The 2025 event drew a record 220 attendees, up from 165 last year, reflecting the growth and energy of the county’s 4-H program.
The evening celebrated excellence, leadership, and community involvement among 4-H members and volunteers. Project pins were awarded to youth who excelled in their individual projects, while citizenship pins recognized members demonstrating outstanding community service, mentoring, communication, and personal development. These achievements highlight the spirit of the 4-H pledge and motto.
Oceana County 4-H also presented several County Medal Awards for exceptional accomplishments and personal character:
• Achievement Award – For overall success across multiple projects and 4-H activities. Recipients: Emery Velat, Bristol Dickman, and Ellie Monroe.
• Leadership Award – For members showing outstanding leadership, serving as positive role models, and assisting with local projects, committees, and events. Recipients: Kevon Gray, Grace Hallack, Kenai Kokx, and Lillian Wasson.
• Sportsmanship Award – Recognizes members who demonstrate fairness, respect, and kindness, encouraging these values in others. Recipients: Arland Cederquist, Alayna Hammerle, Kayden Johnson, and Skyler Leonard.
The county’s highest youth honor, the Lamp of Knowledge Award, went to Alayna Hammerle. This prestigious award recognizes superior achievement, exceptional knowledge, character, and commitment across multiple 4-H programs and experiences. Alayna was named Oceana County’s Outstanding 4-H Member of the Year.
A new distinction introduced this year was the Oceana County 4-H Livestock Master Pin. It honors members with extensive experience and dedication to multiple livestock projects throughout their 4-H careers. To qualify, recipients must be in high school, have raised and shown three or more species, marketed and sold a livestock project at least twice at the county fair, attended 10 or more educational clinics, and participated in at least two livestock shows outside the fair. The first recipients were Luke Eubank and Lillian Wasson.
Volunteers present were honored for their dedication, and each received a thank-you gift of their choice, either an etched glass, canvas bag, or portfolio, as a token of appreciation.
Volunteer Awards included:
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Char Vanderstelt, for exceptional dedication and long-term service.
• Sportsmanship Award – Frank Adkins, for promoting respect and encouragement.
• Service Award – Tammy Hammerle, for outstanding service during the 2024/2025 program year.
• Horizon Award – Kim Adkins, for supporting and growing the Oceana Horse Camp.
• Mentor Award – Ted Hammerle, for making a significant impact in a member’s lives.
The Friend of 4-H Award was presented to Tammy Hammerle, recognizing 14 years of leadership, mentorship across multiple species, and dedication to hands-on learning opportunities. She serves on the 4-H Youth Council and the 4-H Horse Development Committee and is known for chaperoning and transporting youth to state-level events.
The evening also honored the John Sayles Volunteer Service Memorial Award, given annually in memory of volunteer John Sayles. This award celebrates individuals who demonstrate humility, kindness, and service to others. This year’s recipient was youth member Alayna Hammerle.
Before the ceremony, both the Small Market and Large Market Animal Committees met at the same location. Members discussed program updates, reviewed bylaws, shared important dates and conducted nominations and elections for the upcoming year.
“The growth in attendance and participation this year reflects the strength and connection of the Oceana 4-H community. Our members continue to learn, lead, and give back, while our volunteers provide the guidance and encouragement that make 4-H possible. Together, they represent the best of what 4-H stands for.,” Oceana County 4-H Program Coordinator Jennifer Payne said.
About Michigan 4-H: Michigan 4-H, a youth development program of Michigan State University Extension, empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and leadership experiences, 4-H helps youth build confidence, curiosity, and a commitment to community.
For more information about Oceana County 4-H, visit www.canr.msu.edu/oceana/oceana...
