Chester County 4-H Honors Youth Leaders at Annual Fair

Spirit of 4H Awards 2025Submitted Image

HONEY BROOK, PA — The Chester County 4-H Fair celebrated the achievements of five exceptional youth members this year, recognizing their leadership, service, and commitment to the organization’s core values.

The 2025 Spirit of 4-H Award, the highest youth honor at the county level, was presented to Upper Uwchlan Township resident Ronak Suchindra. Certificates of Achievement were awarded to Alexis McCafferty, Audrey Ibach, Arush Dubey, and Megan Johnson for their notable contributions to their clubs and communities.

The awards ceremony was attended by Chester County Commissioner Eric Roe, representing the full Board of Commissioners, and Pennsylvania State Representative John Lawrence. Both commended the honorees and highlighted the importance of youth leadership in agriculture, STEM, and community development.

Commissioner Roe described the honorees as “the future of our communities,” praising their dedication, leadership, and service as qualities that strengthen Chester County.

Spirit of 4-H Award: Ronak Suchindra

Ronak began his 4-H journey at age 8 and has since become a National 4-H Youth in Action winner and the National 4-H Council Youth Spokesperson. He has been recognized for achievements in robotics, public speaking, and mentorship, and has worked extensively to promote STEM education. His name will be added to the county’s Spirit of 4-H Award plaque, displayed at the Chester County 4-H Center.

Certificates of Achievement
  • Alexis McCafferty of West Brandywine Township, an eight-year member of the Swine and Sheep Clubs, was praised for her energy, leadership as a club officer, and willingness to assist fellow members.
  • Audrey Ibach of Upper Providence Township, Montgomery County, a seven-year member of the Northern Chester County Horse Club, has served in leadership roles, organized events, and represented her club at state-level competitions.
  • Arush Dubey of West Vincent Township helped launch the Clover Engineering Club in 2024 and serves as a Pennsylvania 4-H State Project Ambassador, promoting STEM programs statewide.
  • Megan Johnson, 13, of Middletown Township, Delaware County, has been active in multiple counties since age 5, participating in sewing, dairy goat care, dog training, and shooting sports. She is also involved in agricultural education and the Kimberton Fair Court.

Toni Stuetz, 4-H Educator at Penn State Extension, praised the honorees as young leaders whose dedication extends beyond 4-H and into their wider communities.

While the Chester County 4-H Fair is best known for its agricultural exhibits and competitions, the annual awards ceremony underscores the organization’s broader mission—developing capable, civic-minded leaders who carry those skills into the future.

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