BROOKINGS, S.D. — Jodi Thompson recently joined SDSU Extension to serve as the SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Program Advisor for Bon Homme and Douglas Counties.
“We are excited to welcome Jodi to the team of 4-H Youth Program Advisors who serve South Dakota’s youth and communities,” said Donna Bittiker, SDSU Extension State 4-H Program Director.
In her role, Thompson will manage local 4-H operational elements, develop and deliver educational programs, establish working relationships and coalitions with other youth-serving groups and provide leadership for volunteers.
A 4-H alumnus, Thompson understands the impact 4-H’s project-based learning can have on youth.
“I am the third-generation in my family to show horses. Before qualifying for our 4-H horse show, our 4-H leader would ask me to give a speech or public presentation that would help younger club members prepare for the show. These talks really developed my public speaking skills,” Thompson explained. “Talking about something you’re passionate about makes it easier to be comfortable speaking in front of people.”
More about Jodi Thompson
Thompson grew up in Renner. When she turned 8 her grandpa, Gene Carr, who was a retired 4-H leader, encouraged her to turn her interest in horses into a 4-H project.
As she gained experience and became more involved in 4-H, Thompson began helping out, mentoring younger members. Even after she graduated high school, Thompson would return home to help out her 4-H club.
“Because of my 4-H experience, I always knew I wanted to help others in my future career,” says the South Dakota State University graduate trained horses throughout her college career.
In 2013 Thompson received a Bachelor of Science majoring in Political Science and Sociology with a Specialization in Human Resources and in 2016 she received her Master of Science in School Counseling.
Prior to joining the SDSU Extension team, Thompson worked for Human Services Center as a youth counselor. She is eager to put her education and experience to work serving youth and families in Bon Homme and Douglas Counties.
“I am looking forward to working with the youth, families and communities within Douglas and Bon Homme Counties, so that together, we can build a 4-H program which provides youth with experiences and opportunities that prepare them for a more successful future,” Thompson said.
To learn more about South Dakota 4-H, contact your local SDSU Extension 4-H Youth Program Advisor. A complete listing can be found online at iGrow.org under the Field Staff icon.
— SDSU Extension
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