Delaware 4-H congratulates our 4-H High School Seniors! We are proud of each one of you! You have made a positive impact on our program, and we look forward to what your future holds!
Zachary Buck – DE Homesteading 4-H Club
Zachary Buck, a homeschooled senior, has been a 4-H member in Memphis, TN; Richmond, VA; and here in DE where he was President of the Bear 4-H and an active member of HAWA (Health and Wellness Ambassadors). He was a member of the Junior Forestry team in Memphis, won a Piggy Bank competition, attended the Healthy Living Summit, and organized a team in the CANgineering competition. Outside of 4-H, Zach has been a competitor in various State Fairs, plays the clarinet, played on two hockey teams, and helps backstage with a local dance company’s productions. Zach plans on working towards an environmental degree while continuing to play and coach hockey.
Noah McDerby – Porter Gang 4-H Club
Noah began his adventures with 4-H in 2017 and has enjoyed every moment. He has served as Treasurer, Secretary and Vice President of his club. In addition to Porter Gang, Noah is a member of the C3 Camp Counselor Club and NCC Junior Council, currently serving as Secretary for both. Some of his favorite highlights include being a Thunderbird at week 2 of State 4-H Camp, being named the Spark in 2023, as well as serving as a summer camp counselor for State Environmental Camp and NCC Day Camp, and State Teen Conferences.
Outside of 4-H, Noah enjoys being on the stage and has been an active participant in his school’s theater program. He has performed in Mary Poppins, The Addams Family, Music Man, Cinderella, and his favorite role as Mr. Wadsworth in Clue. Noah will be attending the University of Delaware this fall in the Honors Program studying Mechanical Engineering.
Ava Raughley – Porter Gang 4-H Club
Ava Raughley is a graduating NCC Senior from Ursuline Academy. She has been a member of Porter Gang 4-H club for 10 years & is currently serving as NCC Jr. Council President and State Teen Council Vice President. Her favorite projects include citizenship & leadership. A highlight of last year was being named as Echo of the Thunderbird people at State Camp week one and being honored with the Hands H at High Council.
Next year Ava will be attending Virginia Tech in Human Development with the desire to be a Speech Pathologist after grad school. Ava is very thankful for the outstanding experiences, skills learned, and lifelong friendships that 4-H brought to her life.
Melanie Witte – Porter Gang 4-H Club
Melanie Witte is currently a Senior at Octorara High School. She is looking forward to continuing her education at Alvernia University where she will major in Biochemistry and minor in Pre-dental. She aspires to attend dental school and become a pediatric dentist. Melanie’s favorite hobbies include reading, singing, drawing, and hanging out with friends.
Melanie is currently President of the Porter Gang 4-H Club. She is also Vice President of the NCC Jr. Council and a Delaware 4-H State Ambassador. She has enjoyed competing in public speaking contests and submitting photos at the fair. However, her favorite part of 4-H was State Camp. She will always cherish the memories made there.