National 4-H Congress is one of the premiere experiences for 4-H members across the country to participate in.  For over 90 years, members of the 4-H program have been gathering to celebrate the successes and accomplishments of 4-H.  National 4-H Congress provides a life changing experience for youth to meet other members across the United States, as they participate in educational workshops focusing on diversity, cultural experiences, leadership, team development, and of course having fun!  Congratulations to Laurie Wroten and Shawn Mitchell on being selected to represent Sussex County in the Delaware 4-H Congress delegation.  Here is a little more about their project work areas!
Laurie Wroten, is an 8 year member of the Dublin Hill 4-H Club, and member of the Sussex 4-H Junior Council. She is a junior at Sussex Technical High School. Laurie’s main 4-H projects are Foods & Nutrition, Arts & Crafts, Leadership and Citizenship. Other projects include: Sheep, Photography and Horticulture. When asked to write about her most memorable 4-H experience, it was hard for Laurie to choose just one.  She credits her camp counselors and older 4-H members with helping her to come out of her shell and participate in many activities. Some of her favorite 4-H moments are attending Jr. Leader Weekend, State Teen Conference and being with friends at the State Fair.  She believes 4-H isn’t an assortment of memories, it is a single, collective experience that shapes your life and changes you for the better!  Laurie resides with her parents Randy and Robin in Greenwood.

Shawn Mitchell, an 8 year member of Dublin Hill 4-H Club, Treasurer of Sussex 4-H Junior Council, is a Junior Leader and 4-H Camp Counselor. He is a sophomore at Sussex Technical High School.  Shawn’s main 4-H projects are Foods & Nutrition, Sheep, Citizenship, and Leadership. Other projects include: Arts & Crafts, Horticulture and Photography.  Shawn has always looked up to his brother and older 4-H’ers for their leadership and camp counselor skills.  The 2014-2015 4-H year gave Shawn many opportunities to improve his leadership skills.  He was the assistant Treasurer for Sussex 4-H Jr. Council, attended State Teen Council meetings and helped plan the State Teen Conference.  Shawn also had the opportunity to serve as a counselor at Fall Overnighter, Younger Member Weekend and Day Camp.  For his hard work and dedication as a leader, Shawn has been awarded with the “Hands” award for Sussex 4-H and the Future Blue Hen Award.  Shawn said this has been a year to be proud of and that these are his years to shine.  He cannot wait for what 4-H has in store for him!  Shawn’s parents are David and Melissa Mitchell of Greenwood.