PLEDGE
I pledge my head to clearer thinking, My heart to greater loyalty, My hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.
PRESIDENT
PAUL JACKSON, Ringling
VICE PRESIDENT
JERRY KIEFER, Edmond
TREASURER
GAYE PFEIFFER, Orlando
PAST PRESIDENT
JERED DAVIDSON, Edmond
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HOLLY BUNT, Enid
DAN BOMHOFF, Okarche
STEVE BOMHOFF, Okarche
BEVERLY CHAPMAN, Calvin CARLY CORDELL, Stillwater
TEEGIN CROSTHWAIT, Stillwater
JIM EDEN, Stillwater
VALERI TERRY EVANS, Cashion
JOHN GRUNDMANN, Shawnee
RON JUSTICE, Chickasha
NOBLE McINTYRE, Oklahoma City
RODD MOESEL, Oklahoma City
MICHELLE RIEFF, Glencoe
GARY SHERRER, Stillwater
LIZ TAYLOR, Chickasha
DALACY SLEEPER, Shawnee
DEREK SMITHEE, Edmond
TERRY STOWERS, Norman
LIZ TAYLOR, Chickasha
DIXIE THOMAS, Wichita, KS
EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
STEVE BECK, Stillwater
DOROTHY WILSON, Langston
ADVISORY DIRECTORS
ELIZABETH CHAMBERS, Pawhuska
MISSY QUINTERO, Fairmont
JESSICA NICKELS, Enid
STAFF
MILFORD H. JENKINS, Executive Director
SHANNON LEMMONS, Senior Accountant II
KATHRYN SEALS,
A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT:
With each challenge comes opportunity. The last two years have presented not only obstacles, but opportunity as we forge ahead with “Continuing Resilience” to focus on the mission of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation and take it to the next level. Since its beginning, our Foundation mission has remained the same – to support positive youth development through the Oklahoma 4-H program.
When defined, resilience is “the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties or the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity.” While the Foundation has dealt individually and corporately with COVID-19 challenges and temporarily moving to a new location to prepare for the New Frontiers Agricultural Hall at Oklahoma State University – the Foundation has not slowed down.
Internally, we have been diligent to work on our own governance processes and engage with small and large donors alike to reach goals including the celebration of reaching our commitment of $100,000 for our part in the New Frontiers campaign. Most impressive is our continued relationship and development with the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma resulting in an additional subsequent gift making this entity our largest donor of outright cash gifts on record.
We treat each contribution as important – whether large or small, whether from a corporation, organization, another non-profit, memorials, “in honor of” gifts, planned giving, individual giving, family giving, directed giving to a scholarship or specific project – it all adds up to making a successful Oklahoma 4-H program. “Each one, reach one” should be our goal as past members who gained from the program as well as others invested in the mission and know its importance.
We appreciate every contributor, regardless of the level of gift, as it takes us all! With this report we have refined our Clover Recognition Program to honor appropriately those who are giving larger gifts and believe in Oklahoma 4-H. We continue to develop our own professional capacity and our approaches to meet the needs and serve the program adequately.
Making the Best Better – continues foremost – as the desire of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation board of directors and staff. In 2022, our resiliency continues!
PAUL JACKSON President, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Board of Directors
LEAVING A
The Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma (MCFOK) has gifted the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation $800,000 to bolster support for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) project work within the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Program, as well as funding to enhance the annual State 4-H Roundup.
The generous donation follows gifts of $100,000 in 2020 and $100,000 earlier this year that established the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma Endowment Fund within the 4-H Foundation. Earlier in 2021 the Charity Foundation also donated $25,000 to enhance the 4-H Innovate Leadership Summit, which introduces 4-H members to STEM-related fields, including computer science, robotics and hydroponics. Their total contribution to the endowment fund is $1 million.
The Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma has a long history of supporting public education and wants to do things that benefit education and the young people in the state, said John Logan, their executive director.
“4-H is one of the organizations that has a presence in every county, and we’re always looking for ways to support such a presence,” Logan said. “State 4-H Roundup provides benefits to every club member who attends by providing opportunities to participate in workshops and meet peers from other clubs across the state. Having a secure funding base allows 4-H leadership to plan a good program and bring in quality speakers to share with members. It’s dollars well spent.”
As for supporting STEM opportunities, he said the funds will help provide STEM access to students across the state, many of whom may not have opportunities in their communities.
“We hope to show these young people the many STEM opportunities available and stimulate their young minds to learn new things,” Logan said.
Milford Jenkins, executive director of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, said the scope of Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development’s STEM outreach will grow as a result of MCFOK’s transformational gift.
A LEGACY
“Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma’s significant investment in our 4-H youth through this permanent endowment will make an indelible difference and immeasurable impact on STEM and 4-H Roundup,” Jenkins said.
More than 45,800 youth participated in STEM activities in 2020. Providing even more STEM opportunities for urban, nontraditional and underserved audiences will now be possible, and a broader delivery of educational programming will be achieved by adding more STEMists to the 4-H staff. STEMists are former 4-H’ers who are now college students who teach workshops and summer camps to Oklahoma youth. Funds also will allow acquiring innovative and cutting-edge STEM supplies needed for instructional purposes.
Youth attending State 4-H Roundup, the largest statewide 4-H event that takes place on the OSU campus each July, will benefit from expanded enrichment and increased levels of resources generated from this endowment, said Steve Beck, state 4-H program leader.
Story by Trisha Gedon“Other high-profile components of State 4-H Roundup, as well as new features, will be enhanced with the help of this endowment,” Beck said. “Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma will be recognized as a major sponsor of these activities during Roundup.”
Members of the State 4-H Leadership Council are excited to be a part of the historic contribution to the youth development program.
“4-H teaches youth to reach beyond themselves and become productive members of society, not only for our future, but for right now,” said Elizabeth Chambers, State 4-H Leadership Council president. “By supporting Oklahoma 4-H, donors like the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma are helping the best and brightest in Oklahoma dream more, do more and achieve more.”
The generous gift further equips the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation with educational resources for club members, said Jered Davidson, president of the board of directors for the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.
“This gift signifies a milestone partnership and commitment of the Masonic Fraternities and Oklahoma
4-H to bring 21st century opportunities to the next generation of leaders across the state,” Davidson said.
Jenkins said Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development and the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation are dedicated to help achieve the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma’s goals to advance the noble cause of 4-H youth development.
“All of us in the Oklahoma 4-H family will forever be grateful to the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma for their charitable support,” he said.
The Masonic Chairty Foundation of Oklahoma has donated $1 million to support Oklahoma 4-H youth in the last two years.
Clover Classic
Thank you to our sponsors!
Public Finance Law Group
Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma Oklahoma AgCredit Bill and Karen Anderson Carl and Mary Sue Sanders Houck Agency, LLC Longacre, Inc.
The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation hosted the 24th Annual Clover Classic Golf Tournament Oct. 21. 2021, at Oak Tree Country Club in Edmond, Oklahoma. The Clover Classic has a rich history as the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation’s most popular fundraiser each year, led by the organization’s board of directors, fundraising events committee, and Executive Director Milford H. Jenkins. The objective of the Clover Classic is to generate funds for 4-H youth development while also providing a fun activity for supporters and sponsors to participate in. A record-setting amount of $48,176 in total gross revenue was raised by sponsors and players. Another record was set with 27 teams competing - the highest in the golf tournament’s history. The tournament ended with an awards luncheon where 4-H Ambassadors spoke before presenting the top three teams with awards, recognizing top male and female golfers for longest drive and closest to the pin contests, distinguished participants and long-standing supporters.
“All credit for our record-setting 2021 Clover Classic Golf Tournament goes to our generous supporters with a common goal of investing in the lives of 4-H youth,” said Jenkins. “Tomorrow’s leaders in our communities, counties, state, country and world will come from the ranks of today’s 4-H youth. We will always owe our supporters to Clover Classic a debt of gratitude.”
Oklahoma Farm Bureau American National BancFirst Trust and Investment Management Horn Equipment McConnell Plumbing Porters Insurance Agency, LLC Spanish Cove Retirement Village American Farmers & Ranchers Mutual Insurance Company BancFirst- Guthrie BancFirst- Shawnee Bank of Western Oklahoma Dearingers Rep. John C. Pfeiffer Nationwide Environmental Services, Inc. Nitro-Lift Technologies OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Oklahoma Youth Expo Schieffer and Schieffer Inc. Simmons Bank Thomas & Rhonda Coon Thomas D Mapel & Duane Mapel AXIO Financial Blue & Gold Sausage Co. John & Gaye Pfeiffer Luke & Angela Dockrey The Oklahoma Land Lady- Rachel Pickens University & Community Federal Credit Union Madeline’s Flower Shop Messer-Bowers Insurance Paul Jackson Skye McNiel Valley View Pecan Co. Larry Hukill John Knipp Samuel Knipp Clint Roush Rusty Roush Liberty Dental Cornerstone Planning Group, LLC.NEW CAMPAIGNS FOR New Frontiers
Story by Emily GerstenkornThe funds have been raised and the ground has been broken for the New Frontiers New Agricultural Hall on the Oklahoma State University-Stillwater campus. With the future of Oklahoma 4-H in mind, the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation (OK4-HF) directors and staff announced a fundraising campaign for the 4-H suite in the new building. Oklahoma 4-H supporters continued their resiliency with their efforts to meet the monumental goal.
The New Frontiers Agricultural Hall will be the new home for OSU Agriculture and will include a dedicated 4-H office suite for Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development and the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.
Oklahoma 4-H alumni, volunteers and supporters had the opportunity to donate to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation to name a space in the new 4-H office suite. Foundation directors and staff set a goal of $100,000 securing naming rights to three offices. Donations of $25,000-$50,000 were required before a donor received naming rights, said Milford H. Jenkins, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation executive director.
During the OK4-HF Donor Alumni Reception in July 2021, Jenkins announced the challenge of the $100,000 campaign. Jerry and Julie Kiefer declared $50,000 to kickstart the campaign.
“I give 4-H so much credit for where I am today,” said Jerry Kiefer, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation board of directors vice president. “The life lessons and tools 4-H equipped me with had a profound effect on my life. Because of that, I am honored and it’s an incredible opportunity to give back just a small part of what 4-H gave me.”
There is a long history of Oklahoma 4-H and Extension collaboration, so the opportunity to have a significant presence in the New Frontiers Agricultural Hall is worth excitement, Kiefer added.
Additionally, at the OK4-HF Donor Alumni Reception, Oklahoma Farm Bureau donated $10,000 to the campaign.
“Many of our Oklahoma Farm Bureau members are products of Oklahoma 4-H, and they understand the impact the program has on the lives of Oklahoma’s youth,” said Rodd Moesel, Oklahoma Farm Bureau president. “That is why OKFB members were proud to lead off the New Frontiers Agricultural Hall campaign set by OK4-HF directors and staff with a 10,000 gift. Farm Bureau’s investment is well worth it when you consider these members will go on to be the future leaders in agriculture, rural Oklahoma and all around our state.”
In addition to the Kiefers’ contribution, Burns & Stowers, PC donated $25,000 in honor of the late Charlie A. Burns, who was an avid Oklahoma 4-H supporter.
“Dr. Charlie Burns, the father of Doug Burns, dedicated his career to the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Program, including the 4-H Program,” said Terry Stowers, Burns and Stowers, P.C. and OK4H-F board member. “Dr. Burns passed away in 2021 and we felt this $25,000 contribution was the perfect way to honor his life and continue our support for the Program. We recognize the 4-H program’s impact on developing Oklahoma’s youth and future leaders, and that is why the 4-H program is important to Burns & Stowers, P.C.”
Following these donations, John and Janice Grundmann donated $1,000, along with their son, Joshua Grundmann, who donated an additional $1,000.
“I have had a relationship with 4-H since I was 9 years old,” said John Grundmann, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation board member. “My experience in 4-H has led me to believe 4-H plays a large role in developing leadership skills for the youth in our state.”
Both of the Grundmann’s children were involved in 4-H and now
work with 4-Her’s across the state. Joshua Grundmann, John’s son, also made a contribution to the campaign.
“I chose to invest because of the huge dividends of confidence, success and knowledge that this project will pay to future 4-H members when completed,” said Josh Grundmann, Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador advisor and owner of Valley View Pecan. “It’s exciting to see Oklahoma 4-H finally move into a new home, and it’s best suited for the Foundation to make its new home under the same roof as the rest of Oklahoma Cooperative Extension.”
To cap off the fundraising effort, AFR committed $13,000. AFR’s gift to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation helped Oklahoma State University progress toward the fundraising goal of $50 million for the project. Less than $2 million in private support was needed to reach the goal; however, fundraising will continue to incorporate additional features that will enhance the significance and uniqueness of the facility.
“We were honored to help the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation complete its commitment to the OSU New Frontiers Agricultural Hall campaign,” said Scott Blubaugh, AFR president. “We are proud to recognize both OSU and Oklahoma 4-H for their dedication to our state’s young people and this gift is an excellent way to honor both organizations.”
These donations made to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation helped Oklahoma State University progress toward its fundraising goal of $50 million for the project. OK4-HF donors prove to be exponentially helpful to the advancement of 4-H youth.
The New Frontiers Agricultural Hall is projected to be open for the fall 2024 semester. It will include innovative teaching spaces and state of the art areas for OSU’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources branches, including Oklahoma 4-H.
PARTNER IN 4-H AWARD
Orlean and Shane Smith met at the University of Oklahoma in 1989 with bachelors of business administration in management and finance, respectively.
After graduation, Orlean and Shane took on the world. Orlean took a position as a production manager with Wrangler’s Men’s Wear and Shane took a position with a bank.
After marrying in 1990, Shane worked as a loan officer in Norman for approximately a year. The couple then moved to Crowder, Oklahoma in 1992 with the opportunity to operate Canadian Valley Telephone, which is owned by Orlean’s parents.
Canadian Valley Telephone is a three-generation, family-owned business in rural Oklahoma. Orlean is the president and general manager, while Shane handles all in-house accounting. Along with this business, they run a small cow-calf operation.
The Smiths are strong supporters of the Crowder and Canadian communities. They regularly support Crowder and Canadian Public Schools and Lakewood Christian School in McAlester.
Orlean has been incredibly involved in the Oklahoma community, serving in leadership roles within the Lake Eufaula Association Board, the Pittsburg County E911 Board, the Pittsburg County Economic Development Authority, the Lakewood Christian School Board, the McAlester Boys and Girls Club Board, and volunteers to coach baseball, basketball and soccer.
Shane has also been extremely involved in her Oklahoma community. A Tri Delta alumna, she has been involved
with McAlester Business, McAlester Professional Women’s Organization, and McAlester Beta Alpha. She was a larger contributor to the Lakewood Christian School PTSA program and was active in McAlester’s WyldLife Ministry as a member of the YoungLife committee.
Orlean was very involved in 4-H while growing up in Crowder in Pittsburg County. He competed in 4-H Dress Revue, showed cattle and completed other project work such as woodworking, fruits and vegetables. He was able to travel to Washington D.C. and Kansas City, along with attending district leadership conferences, 4-H camps, and State 4-H Roundup.
The Smiths established the Orlean and Shane Smith Endowment Fund through the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, which has led to three gracious scholarships allowing 4-H members to pursue their dreams of attending college and acquiring a higher education, said Milford H. Jenkins, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation executive director.
“One can only be inspired and moved by Orlean and Shane’s selfless passion for helping 4-H youth at the state and county level,” Jenkins said.
Their charitable gift also increased the existing Charles and Betty Smith Endowment Fund.
“4-H experience is something that cannot be replaced; it’s invaluable,” Orlean said.
OUTSTANDING
4-H ALUMNI AWARD
Noble McIntyre was born in Fargo, North Dakota in 1970. In 1971 his family moved to Burns Flat, Oklahoma, where he spent his childhood. He graduated high school as Valedictorian and an Oklahoma Academic All-Stater in 1988. After graduating from high school in 1988, Noble attended Oklahoma Baptist University (OBU) where he obtained a degree in accounting with a minor in business. After graduating from OBU in 1992, he attended the University of Oklahoma College of Law and received his juris-doctorate degree in May 1995. Noble is a trial lawyer and owns McIntyre Law where he employs 15 lawyers and staff. He is married to Rhonda McIntyre, whom he met at Oklahoma Baptist University. They have been married for 28 years and have 3 children: Mackenzie, Cassidy and Kennedy. Noble also has a rescue dog, Lucky, and a Corgi, Milo.
Noble’s grandfather, James Noble, was the first family member active in 4-H. Noble has a framed copy of the April 3, 1926 front page of the Pioneer Press (St. Paul, Minnesota) showcasing his grandfather with his grand champion bull, Marshall. Noble’s mother followed her father’s footsteps into 4-H, followed by Noble’s older sister, Kirsten McIntyre. Noble continued the tradition while in school and fondly remembers his memories attending Oklahoma 4-H State Roundup. Noble credits his speaking skills to his early days in 4-H where he entered speech contests simply to beat his sister, Kirsten, over and over again. He is still looking for ways to win against her.
Pictured above with his grand champoin bull, Marshall, is James Noble.
Induction into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame is the highest honor a 4-H’er can achieve on the state level. Being inducted during the 100th State 4-H Roundup makes it even more exciting.
To make it even better, Rachel Mitchell is the first State 4-H Hall of Fame inductee from Tillman County, creating a trifecta of sorts at the centennial celebration of Oklahoma’s biggest 4-H event July 28-30 on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater.
“It makes me feel very proud that I can represent Tillman County in this way,” Mitchell said. “I’m proud to be a role model for kids.”
An active 4-H’er for nine years, Mitchell said her 4-H career began in fourth grade as a little girl who just wanted to fit in — looking up to the big kids in her club. Today, her role has changed and she’s the one teaching others about the positive impact 4-H can have on youth.
When she joined the Frederick 4-H Club, she said there weren’t a lot of club members. One of her main projects has been to increase the membership in Tillman County. She said one way she’s helped do that is just by being more visible.
“I talked to my friends about 4-H and we started doing community service projects. We’d get out and work in Frederick and let people see what we were doing and help them learn what 4-H is all about,” she said. “Our membership has really increased over the years.”
Mitchell learned early in her 4-H career that she loved to help people, so being involved in community service projects was a natural fit. She can be found lending a hand at local events and attending workshops or meetings that involve helping her town of Frederick. She has been instrumental in organizing local club members to help with the Adopt-the-Block project, as well as helping clean up around the local museum.
“The more people who get involved in 4-H help leads to more involved citizens, better leaders and people who will give back to their communities,” she said.
It was through the childcare project area that Mitchell became
HALL OF
Story by Trisha GedonRACHEL MITCHELL
involved with Special Clovers Camp, where she served as a Clover Buddy for two years. Special Clovers Camp is a camp for 4-H members with special needs. Through her experiences as a Clover Buddy, she said she has learned more about children with special needs and developed more patience. This also is where the idea of becoming a state officer was born.
“I was able to meet some of the state and district officers, and they talked to me about how much more 4-H had to offer outside of my county,” she said.
She has since served as the southern West District vice president. She just completed a year as a West District representative on the state leadership council. She also has served as the West District photographer, as well as county vice president.
She has demonstrated her leadership and public speaking skills by leading a variety of workshops and presentations. She also has served as a delegate to Citizenship Washington Focus, a leadership development opportunity in Washington, D.C.
“I loved going on the CWF trip. It’s one of my favorite memories of 4-H,” Mitchell said. “It was on this trip that I met people from across the whole nation. I was able to see different parts of the county and learn more about the culture of America.”
Arron Henson, OSU Extension educator in Tillman County, said Mitchell is the ideal club member.
“She’s the kind of kid every educator wants. She’s always willing to help with workshops, community service events or any other activities,” Henson said. “She even helps me decorate the Christmas tree at the county courthouse every year.”
He said many of the Tillman County 4-H’ers have had great success in the show ring, and Mitchell being inducted into the Hall of Fame is as exciting as kids winning at the Oklahoma Youth Expo.
“It’s very exciting as her educator to see her be the first Tillman County 4-H’er to receive this honor,” he said.
She is a 2021 graduate of Frederick High School and will be attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University this fall to study elementary education.
When she becomes a teacher, she plans to teach the Ag in the Classroom curriculum to her students to help them understand the importance of agriculture in Oklahoma. Teaching also will give her a chance to help younger children learn about all the great things the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development program has to offer.
“The 4-H program has taught me so many things that I wouldn’t have learned somewhere else. It has taught me the meaning of a good handshake, learning how to get out of my comfort zone and be more outgoing,” she said. “It has helped me find the things that I’m most passionate about while striving to meet my goals.”
She is the daughter of Brian and Kayla Mitchell. Oklahoma Ag Credit sponsors a $5,000 scholarship for Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame inductees.
OF FAME
Story by Trisha GedonLILYANA SESTAK
Lincoln County 4-H’er Lilyana Sestak was taking part in 4-H events long before she was old enough to be an official member, but that’s what happens when your dad is the local Oklahoma State University Extension 4-H educator.
Once she officially became a Cloverbud, she knew her possibilities were limitless but within reach — and she hasn’t slowed down since then. One of those many possibilities became a reality when she was inducted into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame during the 100th State 4-H Roundup that took place July 28-30 on the OSU campus in Stillwater.
“When I got the call that I’d won, it was just surreal,” said Sestak, who is a member of the Prague 4-H Club. “I broke out in tears. I just feel so honored to be recognized like this.”
Born into a farming and ranching family, Sestak assumed she would participate in 4-H livestock projects, which she has, but her true passion is in the foods project. As much as she enjoyed helping with the family’s cattle, she was most at home in the kitchen with her grandmother, perfecting all kinds of recipes, including those that helped her learn more about her Czech heritage. Her skills in the kitchen were instrumental in being named a food science state record book winner.
When asked what she enjoys most about being involved in 4-H, Sestak is quick to answer.
“4-H teaches us not just life skills, but social and business skills, too. I’ve learned to be professional and business like,” she said. “These are things that will help me in the future. I also enjoy all of the relationships I’ve developed in 4-H. This is one of the few organizations that helps us branch out of our community, county and state because of all the opportunities we have across the country. I’ve made so many friends from all over the United States because of conferences I’ve attended through 4-H.”
As her father and her county 4-H educator, Ross Sestak said he couldn’t be more proud of her accomplishments.
“She has continually strived to be a mentor to younger members and peers in the 4-H program. She’s a true testament that with leadership and success, there must be true sacrifice,” Ross Sestak said. “Lilyana has overcome many obstacles, persevered through the challenges, and made not only the people around her better, but ascended with them as well. She’s a pure example of how a small-town girl can make a tremendous impact on those around her.”
Jessica Riggin, another 4-H educator in the Lincoln County OSU Extension office, is proud of the young woman Sestak has grown into.
“I’ve watched Lily grow from a beginning Cloverbud to a remarkable 4-H member and young lady. She can do anything she sets her mind to do, and as her educator, I could not be more proud,” Riggin said.
Her years in 4-H have honed her leadership skills, which she has used in a variety of leadership roles on the local, county, district and state levels, including Northeast District representative and vice president of the State 4-H leadership council. Some of her other 4-H honors include being named a Noble Cause winner, Prague 4-H Outstanding Junior Member, Lincoln County Hall of Fame inductee and county speech contest winner. She also served as a delegate to Citizenship Washington Focus, a leadership development opportunity in Washington, D.C.
Although the 4-H program is known for its four H’s — head, heart, hands and health — Sestak said there’s a fifth H for her — home.
“This program has been with me since birth. It’s a home not only for me but for thousands of others. My dad has served as a father figure not only to his own family, but for many kids involved in 4-H,” she said. “We care about you before you enroll in 4-H, and we care about you long after. We’re Oklahoma’s family and this is something I’m very passionate about.”
Sestak is a shining example of the 4-H motto “To Make the Best Better.” She is the daughter of Ross Sestak and Krista Ray. A 2021 graduate of Prague High School, she will attend OSU this fall to study biochemistry and molecular biology. She hopes to later attend the OSU Center for Health Sciences and earn a doctorate in osteopathic medicine and become a hand and foot surgeon.
Oklahoma Ag Credit sponsors a $5,000 scholarship for Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame inductees. In addition to the Hall of Fame honors, Sestak also was awarded the $1,200 Advanced Achievement project scholarship sponsored by the Vernon and Ronda McKown Endowment; the $1,200 Larry D. Anderson Memorial Scholarship sponsored by the Larry D. Anderson Memorial; the $1,200 Hessell Memorial Scholarship in Public Speaking sponsored by the David Hessell Family; and the $2,000 Retta Miller Scholarship sponsored by the Retta Miller Endowment.
Safety First
As superintendent at Middleberg Public School in Grady County, Joel Read does everything in his power to keep his students safe. When an opportunity arose for his fifth graders to learn more about all-terrain vehicle safety and get hands-on experience, he jumped on the chance.
“We’re a rural school with outdoorsy kids. ATVs are great tools and a source of family fun, but it’s important they know how to ride them safely,” Read said. “Accidents are gut wrenching and can turn tragic so fast.”
Liz Taylor, Grady County Oklahoma State University Extension director, said when she learned about the 4-H ATV Youth Riders Course, she knew she wanted to bring it to one of her county schools. Offered to 4-H, FFA and family groups across the state for several years, the course is now open to schools for students aged 10 and older.
“I learned about this program expanding its reach while attending a meeting in Stillwater. Before I left town, I was on the phone to the school asking if they’d be interested,” Taylor said.
With an open invitation from Read, Jim Rhodes, OSU Extension educator of Oklahoma youth safety;
and Aaron Henson, Tillman County OSU Extension director, conducted the ATV safety class for 16 fifthgrade students.
Rhodes said serious ATV injuries affect more than 100,000 people in the United States, and Oklahoma has one of the nation’s highest rates of injury for riders under the age of 16. Oklahoma averages between 18 and 24 ATV-related deaths each year.
In addition, it’s estimated ATV injuries result in as much as $6 billion annually, including $868 million in medical costs, $1.2 billion in lost productivity and $3.8
they aren’t a toy,” Rhodes said.
Read said Middleberg School has a positive working relationship with the Grady County OSU Extension office and when Taylor brought the class to his attention, he knew it would be beneficial for his students.
As the students progress through the course and learn different skills, Rhodes said he can see their confidence build while doing maneuvers and turns through a series of cones.
Student Bear Mitchell has ridden ATVs at his grandpa’s house, but said he learned some new safety tips he will use the next time he gets to ride.
After the class, student Kaitlyn Hemby said she will always ride with a helmet and encourages others to take the class if they have the opportunity.
Middleberg School principal Meredith Franklin said it’s a good idea to get youth started with basic information before getting on an ATV.
“Even if our students don’t ride ATVs now, there’s a good chance they’ll be on one eventually,” Franklin said. “These kids have learned basic safety and riding skills and this information will be beneficial to them later on. Liz (Taylor) is at our school often and we have
a great working relationship with Extension. I’m happy she brought this opportunity to our kids.”
Schools interested in scheduling the 4-H ATV Youth Riders Course should email Rhodes at jim.rhodes@ okstate.edu. The class requires a flat area of at least 150 feet by 150 feet with no pavement.
Oklahoma Farm Bureau is a corporate sponsor of the Oklahoma 4-H ATV Youth Riders Course training program. Five Extension educators and three OKFB trained staff serve as instructors who are trained and certified by the ATV Safety Institute.
HOW CAN OKLAHOMA 4‑H CHANGE A COMMUNITY
Essay by Madison Nickels, County 4-H
1st Place — 2021 Dr. Ron and Linda Sholar Essay Contest
One’s community has an enormous impact on who they are as a person and help build one into whom they become later, as does 4-H. When asked what first comes to mind when thinking of 4-H, one might say livestock, while others may think of shooting sports; but when I’m asked what first comes to mind when thinking of the world’s largest youth organization, I think of how 4-H impacts a community. Oklahoma 4-H teaches youth the importance of giving back to their community through various activities throughout the year. Studies show that 4-Hers are 1.8 times more likely than other youth to contribute to their communities and that sure shows!
From a young age, 4-Hers are taught how big of an impact they can make on their communities, by lending a helping hand. Members learn different ways they can give back; whether that be by donating their time to a local charity, helping another 4-Her with a service project they started, or by starting their very own service project. One of my earliest 4-H memories is of baking dog treats and making dog toys to bring to a local shelter. That service project was the start of my love for giving back to my community. As I continued to become more involved as a 4-Her, I was given more citizenship opportunities; one of
which was helping a 4-Her from my county with her service project, where we sewed toiletry bags for the Women’s shelter. Seeing her success with her service project, had me thinking, maybe I should start my own, and that’s exactly what I did! I started making things for Operation Gratitude, an organization that send care packages to troops overseas. With my project, I have sent 400 coolties and 245 paracord bracelets.
4-H gives everyone something different; whether it be public speaking skills you didn’t have or recordkeeping skills which we all need to complete record books. It is because of 4-H that I can write a proper thank-you note, know how to give a proper handshake, and can interview for anything with confidence. 4-H has definitely taught me some valuable life skills.
Organization and time management are just a few life skills that helps me, and other members and I become successful community members which helps change a community for the better.
4-H teaches leadership and public speaking skills which can, in turn, create amazing politicians. Looking back at past political figures, it’s amazing how many of them were in the 4-H program. Take Jimmy Carter for example President Carter was a Georgia 4-Her who learned leadership and public speaking skills from the program, making him a successful politician!
Jimmy Carter is 96 years old and still remains active in his community by donating time and resources to Habitat for Humanity. President Carter is still using the civic engagement skills he learned in the 4-H program to help those in need. The dedication to serving one’s community doesn’t stop after graduation or career, it lives on throughout one’s life.
4-H has also allowed me to meet new people from
across the state. I’ve met some of my best friends through the 4-H program. 4-H relationships are like no other! We are always there to support each other and often time lend a hand when a 4-Her is struggling. Although some 4-H friendships don’t last after graduation, some are forever! My parents are a prime example of that.
My dad was a Woodward county 4-Her, while my mom was a Major county 4-Her. They met at State 4-H Roundup. Not only does 4-H build friendships, but it also builds families. Families are what make up a community; they are the ones who bring culture and tradition to the area.
Throughout my 4-H career, I have been blessed with several leadership opportunities that have helped shape me into the person I am today. Being able to serve on different committees and officer teams has taught me teamwork skills and given me the chance to work with the community leaders. 4-H gives youth the experience of serving on a team with adults, which prepares them for the workforce. 4-Hers are given the opportunity to not only attend events but plan them as well. As President Dwight D. Eisenhower stated at the 1959 dedication of the National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase Maryland, “I like 4-Hers because they are dedicated to their work, they want to do things better. Next thing I like about them is their examples to other young people. They lead us to greater dedication to our country. They are, by their work, indeed, making this country a better one. As long as we have young
people of these characteristics, devoted with their hearts and their heads and their hands and their health to doing these things, America cannot be anything but successful.”
The opportunities given to me through 4-H have helped me recognize my passion as well as plan a career built on that. 4-H has allowed me to realize how much I enjoy teaching others and I have decided to go into the education field. Knowing this, I have started teaching workshops at my county, district, and state level. Teaching these workshops allows me to share the life skills I have learned in 4-H. Without the opportunities given to me through the 4-H program, I may have never discovered my love for teaching others. I cannot thank Oklahoma 4-H enough for all these amazing opportunities!
By allowing youth to find something they are passionate about, see a need in their community, and teaching them how to fill that need, 4-H is having a significant impact on its communities. The organization inspires kids to follow dreams and make a difference in the world. I truly believe that the world would not be the same without 4-H and everything it has done to impact those who take part in it. Not only does 4-H change a community, but it also changes a country and our world.
KAY COUNTY 4-H’ER
HELPS YOUTH IN TROUBLING TIMES
Story by Trisha GedonThe Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Program is keen on developing a passion for community service within its members. One Kay County 4-H’er has taken that to heart by helping youth in his community.
Colton Tripp, a member of the OK-Okies 4-H Club in Blackwell, Oklahoma, developed his comfort bag community service project when he learned children displaced from their homes through court orders often had no time to gather their personal belongings.
“When I learned these kids didn’t get to take anything with them, it broke my heart,” said 15-yearold Tripp. “I decided to do something to help with that and started putting together comfort bags to give to police stations and the sheriff’s office in my county. They can give them to the children who are removed from their homes to help make it not so traumatizing for them.”
The pull-string bags contain a blanket, pillow, stuffed animal, crayons, coloring book, a picture book, toothbrush and toiletries. All items for the bags have been donated or purchased with donated funds. He is refining his sewing skills by making the small pillows included in the comfort bags.
Kelley added, “The Kay County Sheriff’s Office is very thankful for Colton and his amazing idea and we look forward to helping him with this project any way we can.”
Liz Nicholson, Tripp’s OSU Extension 4-H Educator in Kay County, said the boy is an exemplary member of his club and terrific role model for all 4-H’ers.
“Colton has always had a very giving heart, and his service shines in our community. He leads by example, is always kind and inclusive of others and spreads his kindness across the entire county,” Nicholson said.
Colton also is involved in a 4-H family and consumer sciences project, as well as a breads project. He has baked cookies for fire fighters and bread for families during the pandemic.
“His service heart and goget-it attitude is outstanding to see in a younger member, and I love that he shares that county wide,” she said.
COLTON TRIPP
OK-OKIES 4-H CLUB MEMBER
Tripp’s endeavor fits his citizenship/community service project area. He donated 20 comfort bags in January and hopes to increase that to 30 or 40 in February.
Kay County Sheriff Steve Kelley said calls to his department to remove children from harmful situations are the some of the worst calls any law enforcement officer has to make.
“The deputies are often seen as the bad person removing a child from the home, and the child will always remember the guy in the uniform as the one ‘who took me from my mother or father and gave me to a stranger,’” Kelley said. “Anything law enforcement can do to ease the pain makes our jobs a little easier. The comfort bags are a welcome distraction, and they give the child items they sometimes don’t have at home or are able to take with them.”
“Everything I’m doing with this service project is going right back into the community,” he said. “I love the feeling of helping someone and just knowing that you made their day and helped them in some way.”
Anyone who would like to donate items or make a monetary donation to help Tripp with his comfort bag project may email Nicholson at elizabeth.nicholson@ okstate.edu. To learn more about 4-H activities in Kay County, follow their Facebook page.
“I love the feeling of helping someone and just knowing that you made their day and helped them in some way”
SHOOTING FOR
Story by Trisha GedonAfter spending several years participating in softball and karate, 14-year-old Elisa Boozer was burned out and ready to try something new. That something new was shooting sports. And, as it turns out, she’s good at it –really good.
Good enough, in fact, to qualify to compete in the AAU Junior Olympics Games not just once, but twice. She qualified to compete in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic shut down that opportunity. Having another year to refine her skills, she qualified this year and competed recently in Michigan.
To put into perspective just how good she is, consider that the 10-point ring inside the bullseye on the target she’s aiming for is half the width of a traditional pencil lead. She’s aiming from 10 meters away, under the deadline pressure of 60 shots in 90 minutes, always hoping to score a perfect 600.
Although she didn’t bring home the gold medal from the Junior Olympics event in early May, Boozer placed fifth in her 14-and-under age group in the 10-meter precision air rifle event and sixth place overall in the same age group.
It was her grandfather who introduced her to firearms, but it wasn’t until about three years ago that she learned shooting was an actual competitive sport. That’s when her interest grew.
“I was talking with my dad in the car one day and he started naming off different sports I could try. He named
off shooting and I said I didn’t even know that was a sport,” Boozer said.
Now, three years later, the Moore Highland East Junior High School student is a Junior Olympic athlete and continues to refine her skills not only with her personal shooting coach, Charles Meloy, but also with the shooting sports program offered through the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development program. She joined the Cleveland County 4-H Shooting Sports club about two years ago.
“I’m a very extroverted person, but shooting is a solitary sport, so being part of the shooting sports program in my county has really been a lot of fun,” she said. “It’s great that I can be social and do shooting, too.”
Ruth Allard, Cleveland County OSU Extension 4-H educator, said Boozer became involved in Cleveland County shooting sports during a transition phase when the organization was in the process of building up that program.
“She became a part of the club in that first wave of kids when we were rebuilding, and her involvement has grown from there,” Allard said. “Obviously, she’s very involved in the shooting sports program, but we’re also getting her involved in other aspects of 4-H.”
Shooting sports is based on experiential learning and goes with the 4-H motto of “learn by doing.” Allard said club members like Boozer serve as role models.
FOR VICTORY
“Whether they realize it or not, these kids are learning life skills. Our goal isn’t necessarily to make champion shooters, but to make champion kids,” she said. “We want to build the whole youth, teach life skills, make this process a family affair and build that young person from the ground up.”
Meloy said he knew there was something special about Boozer when he first started working with her.
“I’ve seen lots of kids shoot, but I quickly recognized in her what we refer to as that ‘Olympic spark.’ I knew we just needed to fan that,” he said. “The kids with that kind of drive have several other things in common. They’re good in school, for example – she has a 4.0 grade point average – and they’re highly successful at other aspects of their lives.”
Despite the pandemic, Boozer continued to work hard and hone her shooting skills. Her lessons with Meloy continued in her grandfather’s workshop, which was converted into a range where they could still practice while following social-distance pandemic guidance. Her three lessons per week continued in that manner until the shooting range reopened.
Elisa’s father, Brandon Boozer, said he believes the sport fits her personality well because she’s a perfectionist.
“She has her process of doing things, and that trait works well with her shooting. She’s the kind of kid who, when she makes her bed, can’t allow any wrinkles,” her
father said. “That focus and determination definitely helps with her success.”
Brandon Boozer appreciates the support his daughter gets from the Cleveland County group.
“If her success can help bring attention to and promote the Cleveland County Shooting Sports club and 4-H, that’s important to us,” he said. “This organization has done so much for Elisa. She has learned a lot, and it’s just a great overall program that provides so many opportunities for youth.”
Allard said the organization focuses on its three national mission mandates: supporting science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education; civic engagement and healthy living. During club competitions, basic safety is emphasized alongside air rifle sight alignment and other skills.
As for the future, the young athlete plans to continue competing in shooting events, and she has her sights set not only on future Olympics opportunities but also earning a scholarship to one of the 26 colleges in the country that offer NCAA competitions in air rifle.
While thankful for her accomplishments, Elisa Boozer said she wants people to understand it takes hard work and dedication to get to the point where she is now.
“It doesn’t start with the Junior Olympics. You have to climb up,” she said. “It starts with picking up a rifle, shooting at the target and trying your best.”
A NOTE FROM THE FORMER
As the now Past President of the Foundation, it seems strange to reflect on all that has happened in the last two years. From global pandemics to record breaking gifts, the Foundation has worked tirelessly to continue to provide resources necessary for Oklahoma youth to reach beyond their perceived limitations and expand their skills, minds, and goals to impact the world around them.
Thousands of Oklahoma youth participate in 4-H activities and educational programs in all 77 counties each year, ranging from in-school enrichment, field days, camps, and club meetings. These programs provide a full 21st century education on topics such as healthy living, computer science, shooting sports, and, of course, livestock and agricultural projects.
Historic gifts, generous benefactors, outstanding alumni, special achievements, and project work inspire us to push harder every day. As time marches on, the needs of the Oklahoma 4-H Program continue to evolve, and we remain committed to addressing each need. However, we cannot stop here.
In our strategic planning retreat in August 2020, we were encouraged to shift our focus and reach to establish new goals as well, including establishing a permanent operational endowment to cover fixed costs so that we can spend our time and resources on providing support for the program and the establishment of an advisory council to inject new ideas and talent into the foundation. These goals won’t be achieved overnight, but every contribution and individual bring us a step closer to ensuring the legacy of the Oklahoma 4-H Program for years to come.
Your contributions to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation are more important than ever. We hope you find that we are grateful stewards of your generous resources and look forward to our continued and new partnerships to create a bright future for Oklahoma 4-H!
Sincerely,
JERED DAVIDSON President, Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Board of DirectorsSCHOLARSHIP & AWARD WINNERS
SCHOLARSHIPS
ACHIEVEMENT
Harold & Edith Shaw Memorial Endowment
Shelby Kelsey
ADVANCED ACHIEVEMENT
Vernon and Ronda McKown Endowment Lilyana Sestak
ADVANCED CITIZENSHIP
Mike Synar Memorial Endowment Reed Marcum
ADVANCED FABRICS & FASHIONS
Wilma Wendt Pattillo Endowment Brance Barnett
ADVANCED FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES
Oklahoma Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences & Oklahoma Association of Extension 4-H Agents Colton Tripp
AGRICULTURE
Kunc Family Farms Rylee Young
ALL OTHER PROJECTS AGRICULTURE & NATURAL RESOURCES
Oklahoma Vegetation Management Association & Dr. Gary and Becky Stone Endowment Khloe Hatcher
ALL OTHER PROJECTS FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES
Dr. Lynda Harriman Hali Bailey
ALL OTHER PROJECTS SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Charles and Betty Smith Endowment Matthew Lewis
ALL OTHER PROJECTS SMALL ANIMALS
Hesser Memorial Endowment Maggie Gregory
ALLAN & DORRIS GOODBARY*
Goodbary Family Endowment Will Martin
B.A. PRATT MEMORIAL
B.A. Pratt Memorial Endowment Madison Deeds, Tori Booker, Daniel Kurtenbach III
BANCFIRST OUTSTANDING 4-H MEMBER BancFirst Cortney Evans
BARNES FAMILY
Barnes Family Endowment Morgan Meyer
BEEF
Kunc Family Farms Morley Griffith
BRADY BENSON MEMORIAL
Benson Family Endowment Rose Smith
BREADS
Shawnee Milling Company Olivia Gayler
CHILD CARE
Kathy Rutledge Memorial Endowment Kynli Jones
CHOCTAW NATION
Choctaw Nation Endowment Khloe Hatcher
CITIZENSHIP
Gene and Judy McKown Endowment Samantha Wagner
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & HUMAN SCIENCES
College of Education & Human Sciences Kyleigh Merrick
DANA SMITH MEMORIAL
McBroom- Sanders Endowment Colby Erickson
DAIRY
Southwest Dairy Museum Charlotte Spires
DOG
Dr. Stuart Ratcliff Family Claire Janssen
EDMONSON AMBASSADOR* Edmonson Ambassador Endowment Emily Ward
ELVIN LINDLEY
ADVANCED AGRICULTURE
Oklahoma LP Gas RM&S Commission Teegin Crosthwait
4-H ENTREPRENEUR
Charles and Betty Smith Endowment Hali Bailey
FABRICS & FASHIONS
Wilma Wendt Pattillo Endowment Tessa Orender
FLOYD & VIOLA HARTMAN MEMORIAL
Floyd and Viola Hartman Memorial Endowment Morgan Meyer
FOOD SCIENCE
Edwin and Winona Presley Memorial Endowment Ethan Stone
GEOLOGY
OERB Wyatt Nikodym
GOATS
Rule of Law Endowment Gracie Harden
GIBSON-OTT MEMORIAL
Harold and Jeanne Gibson Memorial Endowment Bailey Hoeltzel
GRIFFITH FAMILY COMMUNITY SERVICE
Griffith Family Endowment Emily Ward
HALL OF FAME
Farm Credit Associations of Oklahoma Rachel Mitchell, Lilyana Sestak
HEALTH & FITNESS
Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives
Maggie Evans
HORSE
Shawnee Milling Company Karson Frans
HORTICULTURE & PLANT SCIENCE
Oklahoma Horticultural Society
Ben Tindle
IRA HOLLAR ADVANCED LEADERSHIP
Ira Hollar Endowment
Hunter Haxton
JAKIE JONES*
Jakie Jones Endowment
Jared Stone
KEY CLUB
Oklahoma 4-H Key Club Madison Zweiacker
LARRY D. ANDERSON MEMORIAL
Larry D. Anderson Memorial Endowment Lilyana Sestak
LEADERSHIP
Jerry and Julie Kiefer Endowment Aiden Spencer
LINDSAY AND LINDSEY SHERRER*
Lindsay and Lindsey Sherrer Audrey Ochsner
MARJORIE MOESEL*
Marjorie Moesel Endowment
Conrad Moffat
MICHAEL LANDOLL & FAMILY
Michael Landoll and Family Endowment & Rule of Law Endowment
Allie Powers
MODELLE PATTILLO & HUGO GRAUMANN MEMORIAL
Pattillo/Graumann Memorial Endowments
Erin Slagell, Nathan Ratcliff
NOBRO FARMS*
Nobro Farms
Bailey White
OKLAHOMA 4-H AMBASSADOR ALUMNI*
Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador Alumni
Erin Slagell Endowment
OKLAHOMA FAIRS & FESTIVALS
Oklahoma Association of Fairs and Festivals Endowment
Emily Criner
OKLAHOMA YOUTH EXPO
Oklahoma Youth Expo Kaytie Cash, Teegin Crosthwait
PERFORMING ARTS
Edwin and Winona Presley Memorial Endowment
Taylor Kelley
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tracy Family Endowment
Dylan Simon
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Noble McIntyre of McIntyre Law Keona Mason
R.D. FARMER*
R.D. Farmer Endowment
Will Martin
RECREATION & LEISURE ARTS
Ray Parker Memorial Endowment Hailey Franklin
RETTA MILLER*
Retta Miller Endowment Lilyana Sestak
RULE OF LAW 4-H ALUMNI
Rule of Law Endowment
Karina Feng, Madison Stephens, Emily Taylor, Audrey Ochsner, Serena Woodard
RULE OF LAW GRADUATING SENIORS
Rule of Law Endowment
Delaney Cruzan, Adliene Soell, Hailey Franklin, Kathryn Smith, Bailey White, Jared Stone, Cole Stepp, Taylor Neely, Mason Zweiacker, Olivia Napier
SAFETY
Oklahoma Farm Bureau Keaston Gonzalez
SHAW FAMILY*
Shaw Family Endowment Brandy DeVous, Kyleigh Merrick, Emily Ward
SHEEP
Melinda Boatwright Kyleigh Bleeker
SHOOTING SPORTS
Oklahoma City Gun Club
Danny Pierce
SIDWELL AGRIBUSINESS
Sidwell Family
Jared Stone
SOUTHEAST DISTRICT 4-H
Friends of Southeast District 4-H Emilee Coxsey, Jenna Gaberino
STOWERS FAMILY LEADERS OF TOMORROW *
Stowers Family Endowment Madison Deeds
STOWERS NATURAL RESOURCES*
Stowers Family Endowment DJ Kurtenbach III
SWINE
Oklahoma Pork Council Kayden Duncan
TRACEY COX MEMORIAL
Tracey Cox Memorial Endowment Raphael Wall
VETERINARY SCIENCE
Chapman Farms Taryn McCaa
WILDLIFE AND FISHERIES
Rule of Law Endowment
Shannon Francies
AWARDS
NEWS & EAGLE
Enid Publishing Company
Wyatt Hood, Summer Prince
SHOLAR ESSAY CONTEST
Dr. Ron and Linda Sholar
1st Place – Madison Nickels
2nd Place – Keona Mason
3rd Place – Karman Newman
To learn more about how you can support the mission of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, please contact Milford H. Jenkins at 405-744-8884 or milford.jenkins@okstate.edu
*OSU Foundation, Pickens Scholarship
ORDER OF THE CLOVER
EMERALD CLOVER
($500,000+)
Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma
RUBY CLOVER ($100,000+)
Orlean and Shane Smith
DIAMOND CLOVER ($50,000+)
Jerry and Julie Kiefer
Oklahoma Farm Bureau
PLATINUM CLOVER ($10,000+)
American Plant Products & Services, Inc. Anonymous Burns & Stowers PC
Farm Credit Associations of Oklahoma
Flint Lodge No. 11 AF and AM
Karen and Jay Keller Vernon and Ronda McKown
Merl Miller
National Agriculture in the Classroom Organization
OK Beef Council
Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation Betty Smith Doris and Ronny Smithee
JADE CLOVER ($5,000+)
American Farmers & Ranchers
Jered and Lindsey Davidson FIRST
SuzAnn Hertzler and Nate Luman Hille Family Foundation
Lloyd K. & Peggy L. Stephens Foundation
Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives
Oklahoma Pork Council
Terry and Annette Stowers
GOLD CLOVER ($2,500+)
Bar Circle W Sales LLC
Lionel K. Bentley Blue & Gold Sausage
Emmett and Linda Carter Cattlemens Bank
Jack and Beverly Chapman
Darling Ingredients
Trae Gray
Bryan Hawk
HoganTaylor LLP
Ronald and Darlene Justice Noble McIntyre of McIntyre Law
OK Vegetation Management Association
Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee
Oklahoma Rural Water Association
Oklahoma Youth Expo Oklahoma AgCredit Pottawatomie County 4-H Shawnee Milling Co Gary and Joyce Sherrer Southwest Dairy Museum, Inc. Carolyn Speer Walmart Foundation
SILVER CLOVER ($1,000+)
Leeland and Diana Alexander
American National Insurance Company Bill and Karen Anderson BancFirst BancFirst - Shawnee Bradley P. Banister Bilke Enterprises Melinda Boatwright Melinda Bookout
CAF America
Steve Calhoun
Karen and Robert Chappell
Clifford L Knight Foundation Collinsville Masonic Lodge #165 Charles and Natalie Cox
Angela Dockrey
Robert Doenges
Farm Credit of Western Oklahoma Sheila and Dan Forbes
Kent Gardner John and Janice Grundmann
Josh Grundmann
Drs. Lynda and Tom Harriman Barbara and Pete Hatfield HCB Investments
Virginia Hellwege Houck Agency Real Estate & Insurance Kent and Barbara Houck Indian Electric Cooperative Milford and Peggy Jenkins Kent’s Custom Cars & Trucks, Inc. Land O’Lakes, Inc. Foundation Longacre, Inc.
Nelda Matthews Mid-West Fertilizer
Retta Miller
Susan and Kent Murray Noble Research Institute
OERB
OK Cattlemen’s Association
Oklahoma City Gun Club
Oklahoma Horticultural Society
Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Foundation
Oklahoma Soybean Board
Olifant II
David Parker John and Gaye Pfeiffer
Louise Ratcliff
Charlotte and Robert Richert
Jim Rutledge
Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
John and Julie Schurman
Gwen Shaw Ron and Linda Sholar Brenda Sidwell
DaLacy Sleeper
Brian and Michelle Stephens
Dwight Stoddard
Samuel Stone
Cathleen Taylor
The Bomhoff Family Foundation
The Public Finance Law Group PLLC
The Sirloin Club of Oklahoma
Becky Walker
BRONZE CLOVER
($500+)
Kelly Arrington
AXIO Financial
BancFirst Trust & Investment Management Bank of Western Oklahoma
Marilyn S. Boevers
Carter County Home & Community Education
Cherokee Nation
CKEnergy Electric Cooperative, Inc. ConocoPhillips Company
Thomas and Rhonda Coon
David Copeland
DASNR-Vice President’s Office Dearinger Printing & Trophies Inc Brad and Tammy Elliott Mary L. Fields
Suzanne and Randy Gilbert Karen Grethen
Heritage Place
John T. Home Horn Equipment Jim Norton Toyota Karla Knoepfli
Melissa and Roy Lee Lindsey Jr. Thomas Mapel
McConnell Plumbing
Nationwide Environmental Services, Inc.
Nitro-Lift Technologies
Oakridge Equine Hospital
Arthur and Rosemarie Ochsner
Oklahoma Water Resources Board
Oklahoma Cotton Council
Oneok Foundation Inc
Pittsburg County 4-H
Pontotoc County OHCE
Porters Insurance Agency
David Ratcliff
Rogers County 4-H Horse Club
Schieffer & Schieffer, Inc.
Eileen Smith
Spanish Cove Retirement Village
The Fulton & Susie Collins Foundation
The Nix Foundation
The Oklahoma Land Lady
Tracy McKaughan
Tulsa Community Foundation
University & Community Federal Credit Union
Nancy and Richard Warden
Martha Waters
Wheeler Metals
Joseph and Sue Williams
GREEN CLOVER ($100+)
Ag Youth
All America Bank
Allen Giblet Insurance Agency
Susan and Russ Allen
Deborah and Lawrence Alspaugh
Kaye and Jim Aulgur
Richard and Cindy Bailey
Bank of Western Oklahoma - Cordell Terry Baransy
Patti Barker
Diana M. and Kent Barnes
Pat Barnes
Lori Barnett
Susan Barrett
Bayer Crop Science-WestBred
Gene and Ann Benson
Darrell L. and Barbara Bilke
Boeing
John Bradley
Mary Ann Briggs
Larry and Becky Brooks
Cathy and Chad Carr
Peri Caylor
Kristi Chapman
Marguerite Christman
Natalie and Scott Church
Laura Colgan
Debra and Mark Conkling
Cindy and Lewis Conner
Connors Development Foundation, Inc. Carly Cordell
Dorlana Crowell
Debby Damkoehler
Debbie Davis
Shelly and Tom Davis
Donna and Millard Deming
Mike Deniz
Elaine Deschner
Ann and Jerry Dillon
Nancy Dunlap
Wayne and Susie Edgar
Donald England
Farm Credit of Western OK
Farmers Cooperative Exchange
Judy Ferrell
First National Bank & Trust
First National Bank & Trust Co - Cordell Branch
Dorothy Forth
Joe and Vickey Francis
Donna Frye
Jay and Jennifer Geary
Leo Goeringer
Paul Goeringer
Thomas Gorman
Bobby and Margaret Goss
Great Plains Bank - Hollis Mark and Beth Gregory Jonith and Steven Grundmann Carl and Kathleen Hamby R.H. Harbaugh Jr.
Julie Hays
Pat Heidlage Brandi Herr
Gina Hesley Kris Hiney Cathy Holstead Renee and Bob Howard Brad Howell
Carolyn Howell
Larry Hukill Interstate Equine, LLC
Kristi Isacksen Paul and Kim Jackson
Sandy and Ron Johnson Ray Paul and Betty Jones
Elizabeth Kastl
Janna and Bryant Kelley E.R. and Delores Kimsey King Lindsey Leasing, LLC
David Kinney Melinda and John Kinney
Sue Kirby
Phil Kliewer
Joe Knight
John Knipp Sam Knipp
Michael Lackey Landrun Realty, Inc. David A. Leavitt
Liberty Dental Gary Loeffelholz John Logan Mary A. Lough Sarah Maass Michelle Maxon John and Linda Maxwell Jr. Mary and Frank McCalla Linda and Charles McFate Sharon McKay
Craig McKinley Steve McKinley Kathleen M. McNally Skye McNiel Messer-Bowers Insurance
Brian Mitchell
Janet Mitchell
Lori Morton Debra Mosburg Cheryl Newberry
New Cordell Tag Agency
New York Life
North Carolina Pork Council Lucia and John O’Connor Nathanael O’Connor
Oklahoma Quarter Horse Association
Oklahoma City Community Foundation Oklahoma Equine Hospital
Oklahoma Home and Community EducationTulsa County
Amy Parks
Lori Parman Pearces Southside Grocery Merrileta Periard
Rita Perre-Davis Harold and Sue Peyton Beth Phillippi Gaylon Pinc Garvin Quinn
Larry and Christine Quinn Shelly Ramsey
Red River Valley Rural Electric Association Henry Reeves
Kristin Regier Michelle B. Rieff
James and Linda Riley James Ritz
Victoria Robinson
Shari and Melvin Roebuck Phillip Root
Clint Roush John Roush
Patsy and Robert Rowland
Royal Vista Ranches, LLC
Charlie and Sunny Rufo Wally and Sherri Schieffer Marilyn and Ed Seagraves
Arlene Sellers
Seminole County Farm Bureau
Debbie Sharp Ray and Jean Sharp Kathleen Shelts
Don and Pam Sherrer Jim and Billie Shields
Jim and Mary Sims L. D. and Sammy Smith Rebecca Smith Derek Smithee
Sophia Smither Rebecca Sneed
Snowder’s Alignment & Tires, LLC
Regina and David Sorrell Paula and Carlos Squires
Mike Steele
CE Stonecipher
Holly and Kyle Stuart David and Judy Sturgeon
Elizabeth Taylor
Teal Insurance Agency
Paul and Lola Thompson
Dale and Judy Tracy
Mike Treat Denise Tulloh
Tulsa County Farm Bureau
Mickey and Bonnie Vanderwork
Alan and Pat VanDeventer
Andrea and Tom Volturo Ray Washam
Tammy Street and Jerry Webb
Brian Wilson
Jeannette Yokley
Julie and Steve York
HONORARY & MEMORIAL GIFTS
IN MEMORY OF
REGGIE BATES
by Wally and Sherri Schieffer
BRADY BENSON
by Susan Arn
Ann and Gene Benson
Phil Berkenbile
Gayle Buie Tom Despain
Joe Dorman
Jonie Firestone
Pam Frieden
Pamela Fry Penny Gooch Paul Grundmann Karen Gutenkauf
Ginger Henley
Fran Holloway Beuman David A. Leavitt
Kay Martin Kathleen M. McNally
Anita Risner
Beverly Smith Barbara Smith Rebecca Sneed Dwight Stoddard
Karen Thomas Becky Walker Connie Walker Lois Willey Jay Williams
GLENDA BENTLEY
by Gene and Ann Benson
WYATT JACK BOATRIGHT
by Melinda and Dwayne Boatwright
B.J. BRANCH by Charles Cox
CHARLIE BURNS
by Terry Baransy
Burns & Stowers PC
Trae Gray
Susan Murray Terry & Annette Stowers
RONALD COULTER by Charles Cox
LETHA CRISPIN by Eldon and Dixie Ferrell
WILLIAM S. DOENGES by Peri Caylor
Laura Colgan
C. Dwight Creveling Robert Doenges
Ford Motor Credit - Dallas Region Team Thomas Gorman Gulf States Toyota R.H. Harbaugh John T. Home Joann Huber
Jim Norton Toyota Richard Lieser Bob Soza
Lloyd K. & Peggy L. Stephens Foundation
Samuel Stone Jean Tate
The Fulton & Susie Collins Foundation Chelley Wallack
DON AD LANORA DONAHOO by Tracy McKaughan
PATRICIA HAGER FITE by Virginia Hellwege
CHARLES FOWLER by Dea Rash
DALE GRAHAM by Charles Cox
GRANDPA by James Ritz
TODD GRIFFITH by Brad Elliott
MICHELLE GRUNDMANN by Gene and Ann Benson
JAY HESSER by Landrun Realty, Inc.
JAMES KEY by Charles Cox
JACQUELYN C. LARKIN by Susan Murray Barbara Hatfield
LEAH LAYMAN by Eldon and Dixie Ferrell
WILMA “JANICE” LEFORCE by Wilma Bezdicek, Pam Lansden and Perry Lansden
ROY LEE LINDSEY, SR. by Patricia Barnes Paul Goeringer Phil Kliewer
Joe Knight North Carolina Pork Council Steve Thompson Dirk and Janne Webb
DATHA MORRISON by Cathy Holstead Rita Perre-Davis Lisa Walker
ARDATH MURRAY by Janet Mitchell
JOANNE PARMAN by Nathanael O’Connor Lori Parman
RENEE PARSONS by Denise Tulloh
JACK PATTERSON by Dwyane and Melinda Boatwright
KAREN RICHARDSON by Michelle Dodgen Barbara Hatfield Erin Hickey Debra Mosburg Michelle Stephens
TOM SEARS by Anonymous
DANA SMITH by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
JOHN & IONE STEICHEN by Elizabeth Kastl
JAMES “DOC” STONE by Karen Wynn
RICHARD TARPEY by Jimmy and Gloria Alldredge Iwona Birk
LaVere Bishop
Michael and Dorothy Forth Michael and Gayle Lackey
William and Michelle Maxon
Phillip and Linda McConnell
Michael and Jennifer Regehr
Tom and Gaye Shepherd
Sophia and Richard Smither
Stillwater High School Class Of 1960 Roy and Martha Waters
DAVID TURNER by Denise Tulloh
MARVIN WYATT by Frankie Cruz Arthur and Rosemarie Ochsner
IN HONOR OF
ANN & GENE BENSON by Kenneth St. Clair
ROB BOMHOFF by Virginia Hellwege
SARAH DUNN by Jim Rutledge
SHIRLEY HASTINGS by Sue Peyton
RANEL LASLEY by Ida F. Winters
LELAND MCDANIEL by Susan Murray
OCHSNER GRANDCHILDREN by Arthur and Rosemarie Ochsner
LOIS OLZAWSKI By Patti Barker, Victoria Robinson, Julie York
SUE PEYTON by Shirley Hastings PONTOTOC CO. 4H VOLUNTEERS by Becky Walker
JIM RUTLEDGE by Chapter FU P.E.O.
JEFF SALLEE by Charles and Natalie Cox
JULIE OLZAWSKI YORK by Susan Barrett
JASON ZONDOR by The Love Family
RANEL LASLEY by Ida Fay Winters
HALI BAILEY by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
KEONA MASON by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
KYLEIGH MERRICK by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
TEEGIN CROSTHWAIT by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
TAMIKA JONES by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
EMILY WARD by Carl and Mary Sue Sanders
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1: Oklahoma 4-H youth and related programs benefit from charitable gifts to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Oklahoma State University Foundation (OSUF), located at Stillwater, Oklahoma. Two primary gift types held by the Foundation benefit the Oklahoma 4-H program and/ or 4-H members.
Pickens Legacy Scholarship Match: The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation was instrumental in soliciting these charitable gifts, as well as being a donor of matching funds totaling $625,000. As of December 31, 2021, these assets and charitable interests permanently owned and administered by Oklahoma State University Foundation in adherence to formal agreements by and between donor(s) and Oklahoma State University Foundation were valued at $917,659. Actual amount(s) of funds annually available for support of 4-H youth and related programs is determined by the agreements and Oklahoma State University Foundation’s fiscal policies; this amount was $36,304 in 2021.
Oklahoma State Professorships: The Oklahoma 4-H program benefits from staff support provided by the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Professorship endowment, with a value of $308,809 as of December 31, 2021 with account cash on hand of $16,892 as of that date, and the Centennial Professorship endowment, with a value of $315,349 as of December 31, 2021 with account cash on hand of $11,150 as of that date.
Several of the above scholarship and professorship donors, including the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, participated in programs which included contractual provisions for additional matches to be received at a future date (including the expected receipt of matching funds from the Pickens Estate) totaling $1,607,383.
Note 2: The Foundation has entered into a support services MOU with the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service and Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, for those entities to provide salary and benefits for certain Foundation administrative (1.0 FTE) and accounting (0.5 FTE) support, as consideration for the services and support provided to those entities by the Foundation.
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
To the Board of Directors
The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, Incorporated Stillwater, Oklahoma
Opinion
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, Incorporated, (the “Foundation”) (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statements of financial position as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Foundation as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of the Foundation and to meet our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audits. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Responsibilities of Management for the Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Foundation’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued.
Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements.
In performing an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, we:
- Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
- Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
- Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Foundation’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
- Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.
- Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Foundation’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit.
April 12, 2022
HSPG & Assocates, P.C.
April 9, 2021
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
See accompanying notes to financial statements.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
THE OKLAHOMA 4-H FOUNDATION, INCORPORATED NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
1. NATURE OF ACTIVITIES AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of activities – The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, Incorporated (the “Foundation”) operates as a nonprofit corporation located in Stillwater, Oklahoma. It was organized to support youth development by functioning as the primary vehicle for private fund development to support scholarships, awards and activities. It also strives to increase public awareness of 4-H. The Foundation is an integral partner of 4-H, serving as a catalyst in a unified effort to create partnerships, acquire resources, and focus collective energies for the betterment of Oklahoma youth. The Foundation receives and manages endowment funds that are used for programs, scholarships and other 4-H related activities throughout the state.
Relationship with Oklahoma State University (“OSU”) – The Foundation has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with OSU. Through the MOU, the Foundation’s personnel are employed by OSU providing the Foundation with trained human resource administration and access to OSU’s benefits system. Personnel employed by OSU and allocated to the Foundation include an executive director, accountant, and support assistant. The Executive Director is employed under the direction of the Foundation’s board of directors. OSU is reimbursed for any incurred costs including payroll and fringe benefits for the Executive Director. Compensation costs incurred by OSU for the accountant and support assistant are considered in-kind donations to the Foundation. The Foundation is also provided use of office space, including certain furniture and equipment, from OSU as an in-kind donation.
Basis of Accounting – The accompanying financial statements of the Foundation have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting and, accordingly, reflect all significant receivables, payables, and other assets and liabilities.
Basis of Presentation – Net assets, revenues, and gains and losses are classified based on the existence or absence of donor-imposed restrictions. Financial statement presentation reports information regarding the Foundation’s financial position and activities as follows:
Net assets without donor restrictions – Net assets available for use in general operations and not subject to donor restrictions. Net assets with donor restrictions – Net assets subject to donorimposed restrictions. Some donor-imposed restrictions are temporary in nature, such as those that will be met by the passage of time or other events specified by the donor. Other donor-imposed restrictions are perpetual in nature, where the donor stipulates that resources be maintained in perpetuity. Donor-imposed restrictions are released when a restriction expires, that is, when the stipulated time has elapsed, when the stipulated purpose for which the resource was restricted has been fulfilled, or both.
Cash and cash equivalents – For purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Foundation considers all highly liquid investments available for current use with an initial maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Revenue recognition and other support – Revenues that have characteristics of exchange transactions, such as certain sponsorships, are not recognized until earned. Fees received prior
to services being provided are recorded as deferred revenues. Contributions are recognized as support in the period unconditional promises to give are received and are reported as net assets with or without donor restrictions depending on the existence or nature of any donor restrictions. The standards also provide that if the governing body of an organization has the right to remove a donor restriction, the contributions should be classified as without donor restriction. Conditional contributions – that is, those with a measurable performance or other barrier and a right of return - are not recognized until the conditions on which they depend have been met.
The Foundation’s revenue and other support during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 primarily included the following:
Contributions and in-kind donations – Contributions received are reported as with or without donor restricted support depending on the existence or nature of any donor restrictions. The Foundation reports gifts of cash and other assets as restricted contributions if they are received with donor stipulations that limit the use of the donated assets. Volunteers contribute significant amounts of time to the Foundation’s program services, administration, and fundraising and developing activities; however, the financial statements do not reflect the value of these contributed services because they do not meet recognition criteria prescribed by generally accepted accounting principles. Donated services are recognized by the Foundation if they create or enhance nonfinancial assets or require specialized skills, are provided by individuals possessing those skills, and would typically be purchased if not provided by donation. In-kind donations of goods and services are recorded in the financial statements at the estimated value of such goods or services. Donations for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 were $18,000 each year for rent of the Foundation’s main office space and $4,868 and $5,966, respectively, of other materials, labor, and professional services.
Grants – A portion of the Foundation’s grant revenue is derived from cost-reimbursable contracts and grants, which are conditioned upon certain performance requirements and/or the incurrence of allowable qualifying expenses. Amounts received are recognized as revenue when the Foundation has incurred expenditures in compliance with specific contract or grant provisions. Amounts received prior to incurring qualifying expenditures are reported as refundable advances in the statement of financial position. Grant revenues which are not derived from cost-reimbursable agreements are recorded similar to contributions.
Sponsorships – Sponsorships included in the accompanying financial statements are for naming rights associated with the Foundation’s ATV safety facility (see Note 7) entered into in 2019. These revenues have been determined to be a contract with a customer with a single performance obligation which is earned ratably over time. There was no deferred revenue and sponsorships receivable associated with this contract were as follows as of December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019.
Sponsorships receivable
Special event revenues – Special events, other than the golf tournament, are generally held by various third parties to support a specific County 4-H club. Proceeds from those special events are contributed to the Foundation which are recorded similar
benefits to donors which are earned at a point in time as well as contribution income for the excess received when the event takes place. There were no deferred revenues or unrecognized conditional contributions associated with special event revenues as of December 31, 2021 or 2020.
Certificates of deposit – Certificates of deposit are recorded at cost plus accrued interest.
Investments – Investments consist of cash and money market funds and equity and fixed income mutual funds. Mutual funds are stated at fair value as determined by the fund and/or investment manager. Cash and money market funds held within investment accounts are held at cost which approximates fair market value.
Fair values are based on quoted market prices as provided by the financial institution. Realized gains and losses on sales of securities are computed based on specific identification. Net investment return (loss) is reported in the statement of activities and consists of interest and dividend income and unrealized and realized gains and losses.
Investment securities are exposed to various risks such as interest rate, market and credit risks. Due to the level of risk associated with certain investment securities, it is at least reasonably possible that changes in the values of investment securities will occur in the near term and that such change could materially affect the amounts reported in the accompanying financial statements.
Beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others – The Foundation has been named as an irrevocable beneficiary of a charitable trust (R.D. Farmer Trust) which is held and administered by an independent trustee (BancFirst). This trust was created independently by a donor and is administered by outside agents designated by the donor. Therefore, the Foundation does not have either possession nor control over the assets of the trust.
At the date the Foundation is notified of a beneficial interest, a contribution with donor restrictions is recorded in the statement of activities, and a beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others is recorded in the statement of financial position at fair value. Thereafter, beneficial interests in the trusts are reported at fair value in the statement of financial position, with changes in fair value recognized in the statement of activities. Upon receipt of trust distributions or expenditures, in satisfaction of the donor-restricted purpose, if any, net assets with donor-imposed time or purpose restrictions are released to net assets without donor restrictions.
In accordance with the R.D. Farmer Trust, the Foundation is an income beneficiary receiving five percent (5%) of the trust’s yearend fair market value as of April 30 each year through June 2028. In approximately June 2028, the remaining assets of the trust will transfer to the Foundation. As such, the Foundation records its beneficial interest based on the underlying investments in the trust as reported to the Foundation by the trustee.
Property and equipment - Property and equipment are carried at cost or, if donated, at the approximate fair value at the date of donation. The Foundation reports gifts of property and equipment as without donor restriction support unless explicit donor restrictions specify how the donated assets must be used. Gifts of long-lived assets with explicit restrictions that specify how the assets are to be used and gifts of cash or other assets that must be used to acquire long-lived assets are reported as restricted support. Absent explicit donor restrictions about how long those long-lived assets must be maintained, the Foundation reports expirations of donor restrictions when the donated or acquired long-lived assets are placed in service. Depreciation is computed using the straightline method over the estimated useful lives of the assets.
Fair value measurements – The Foundation reports certain assets at fair value in the financial statements. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction in the principal, or most advantageous,
market at the measurement date under current market conditions regardless of whether that price is directly observable or estimated using another valuation technique. Inputs used to determine fair value refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk. Inputs may be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are inputs that reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the reporting entity. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions about the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available.
A three-tier hierarchy categorizes the inputs as follows:
Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Foundation can access at the measurement date.
Level 2: Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability, and market-corroborated inputs.
Level 3: Inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement. In these situations, the Foundation develops inputs using the best information available in the circumstances.
In some cases, the inputs used to measure the fair value of an asset or a liability might be categorized within different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In those cases, the fair value measurement is categorized in its entirety in the same level of the fair value hierarchy as the lowest level input that is significant to the entire measurement. Assessing the significance of a particular input to the entire measurement requires judgment, taking into account factors specific to the asset or liability. The categorization of an asset within the hierarchy is based upon the pricing transparency of the asset and does not necessarily correspond to our assessment of the quality, risk, or liquidity profile of the asset or liability.
Financial assets subject to fair value measurement disclosure requirements include investments and beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others (see Note 3). The Foundation has no liabilities carried at fair value on a recurring basis and no assets or liabilities carried at fair value on a non-recurring basis at December 31, 2021 or 2020.
Concentration of Credit Risk – The Foundation maintains cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, may exceed federally insured limits. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Foundation’s balance with financial institutions subject to FDIC coverage exceeded such coverage by $50,460 and $192,237, respectively. The Foundation has not experienced any losses in such accounts and does not believe that it is exposed to any significant credit risk on cash.
Expense allocation – The costs of providing various programs and other activities have been summarized on a functional basis in the statements of activities. The statements of functional expenses present the natural classification detail of expenses by function. Accordingly, certain costs are allocated between program, fundraising, costs of direct benefit to donors, and management and general based on evaluations of the related activities. Management and general expenses include those expenses that are not directly identifiable with any other specific function, but provide for the overall support and direction of the Foundation.
Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures.
to contributions as described above. Proceeds from the golf tournament include both revenues equal to the fair value of direct Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates, and those differences could be material.
Income taxes – The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization exempt from income taxes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and classified by the Internal Revenue Code as other than a private foundation. The Foundation is subject to routine audits by taxing jurisdictions. Management believes it is no longer subject to income tax examinations for years prior to 2018.
Reclassifications – During the year ended December 31, 2021, Foundation management identified three funds which have been re-evaluated to more appropriate be reported as unrestricted, board designated net assets rather than donor-restricted net assets as previously reported. Such reclassifications have been reflected in the accompanying statement of net assets for the year ending December 31, 2021.
Subsequent events – The Foundation has evaluated subsequent events through April 12, 2022, the date the financial statements were available to be issued. There are no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the 2021 financial statements.
Recent accounting pronouncements – In September 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-07 “Presentation and Disclosures by Not-for-Profit Entities for Contributed Nonfinancial Assets” which increases transparency around contributed nonfinancial assets (also known as “gifts-in-kind”) received by not-for-profit (“NFP”) organizations including transparency on how those assets are used and how they are valued. The ASU requires an NFP to present contributed nonfinancial assets as a separate line item in the statement of activities, apart from contributions of cash or other financial assets. It also requires an NFP to disclose certain information related to the types of contributed nonfinancial assets received, whether they were utilized or monetized, the NFP’s policy, if any, about monetizing rather than utilizing such assets, and valuation techniques used to determine the valuation of such contributed assets. The amendments for this ASU are to be applied retrospectively and are effective for annual periods beginning after June 15, 2021.
Management is currently evaluating the impact that adopting the above recent accounting pronouncement will have on the Foundation’s financial statements in future reporting periods.
2. LIQUIDITY AND AVAILABILITY
Financial assets available for general expenditure, that is, without donor or other restrictions limiting their use, within one year of the statement of financial position date, comprise the following: 20212020
Cash and cash equivalents 322,416$ 464,008$ Sponsorships receivable 19,863 19,863 Grants receivable 2,023 2,023
Operating investments 1,217,178 550,027 Distributions from beneficial interests in assets held by others 154,316 144,974 1,715,796$ 1,180,895$
in short-term investments, CDs, and money market funds.
3. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of assets reported at fair market value in the accompanying financial statements.
Investments: Investments are stated at fair value, and are based on quoted market prices, when available, or the best estimate of fair value as determined by the fund and/or investment manager. Generally, quoted market prices are available for mutual funds and, as such, are classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.
Beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others: The fair value of the Foundation’s beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others is based on the fair value of trust assets as reported by the trustee. The investments are directed by BancFirst and consist of various mutual funds and cash equivalent funds which are designated to achieve endowment returns consistent with their investment policies. These are considered to be Level 3 measurements.
The following table presents assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis, except those measured at cost.
As of December 31, 2021 Fair Value Measurements
Carrying Total Fair Value Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Income from donor-restricted endowment funds is restricted for specific purposes and is not available for general expenditures.
The details of the beneficial interest in assets held by others are further discussed in Note 1. As part of the Foundation’s liquidity management plan, cash in excess of daily requirements is invested
ASSETS
Investments: Cash and money market 144,920$ $ $ $ $ funds (at cost)
Mutual Funds:
Equity 5,971,574 5,971,574 5,971,574
Fixed Income 3,641,838 3,641,838 3,641,838
Total Investments 9,758,332 9,613,412 9,613,412
Beneficial interest in assets held by others 3,086,315 3,086,315 3,086,315 12,844,647$ 12,699,727$ 9,613,412$ $ 3,086,315$
As of December 31, 2020 Fair Value Measurements
Carrying Total Fair Value Value Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
ASSETS
Investments: Cash and money market 99,312$ $ $ $ $ funds (at cost)
Mutual Funds: Equity 4,297,905 4,297,905 4,297,905
Fixed Income 3,127,097 3,127,097 3,127,097
Total Investments 7,524,314 7,425,002 7,425,002
Beneficial interest in assets held by others 2,899,475 2,899,475 2,899,475 10,423,789$ 10,324,477$ 7,425,002$ $ 2,899,475$
5. ENDOWMENT DISCLOSURES
The Foundation’s endowment consists of approximately 71 funds established by donors and five funds established by the board of directors to provide annual funding for specific activities and general operations. Net assets associated with endowment funds are classified and reported based on the existence or absence of donor-imposed restrictions.
Interpretation of Relevant Law – The Foundation follows the Accounting Standards Codification’s guidance on the net asset classification of donor-restricted endowment funds for a notfor-profit Foundation that is subject to an enacted version of the Oklahoma Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (“UPMIFA”). The Board of Directors of the Foundation has interpreted UPMIFA as requiring the preservation of the fair value of the original gift as of the gift date of the donor-restricted endowment funds absent explicit donor stipulations to the contrary. As a result of this interpretation, the Foundation retains in perpetuity (a) the original value of initial and subsequent gift amounts donated to the endowment and (b) any accumulations to the endowment made in accordance with the direction of the applicable donor gift instrument at the time the accumulation is added. Donor-restricted amounts not retained in perpetuity are subject to appropriation for expenditure by the Foundation in a manner consistent with the standard of prudence in UPMIFA. In accordance with UPMIFA, the following factors are considered in making a determination to appropriate or accumulate donorrestricted endowment funds held for the benefit of the Foundation.
(1) The duration and preservation of the fund;
(2) The purposes of the Foundation and the donor-restricted endowment fund;
(3) General economic conditions;
(4) The possible effect of inflation and deflation;
(5) The expected total return from income and the appreciation of investments;
(6) Other resources of the Foundation; and
(7) The investment policies of the Foundation.
Endowment net asset composition by type of fund as of December 31, 2021 is as follows:
Without DonorWith Donor RestrictionsRestrictionsTotal
Donor-restricted endowment funds $ 6,791,840$ 6,791,840$
Board-designated endowment funds 892,604 892,604 892,604$ 6,791,840$ 7,684,444$
Changes in endowment net assets for the year ended December 31, 2021 are as follows:
Without Donor With Donor RestrictionsRestrictionsTotal
Endowment net assets, beginning of year 635,059$ 5,252,333$ 5,887,392$
Investment return, net 98,471 650,354 748,825
Contributions 1,179,830 1,179,830
Appropriation of endowment assets for expenditure (9,415) (122,188) (131,603) Reclassifications 168,489 (168,489)
Endowment net assets, end of year 892,604$ 6,791,840$ 7,684,444$
Endowment net asset composition by type of fund as of December 31, 2020 is as follows:
Without DonorWith Donor RestrictionsRestrictionsTotal
Donor-restricted endowment funds $ 5,252,333$ 5,252,333$ Board-designated endowment funds 635,059 635,059 635,059$ 5,252,333$ 5,887,392$
Changes in endowment net assets for the year ended December 31, 2020 is as follows:
Without Donor With Donor RestrictionsRestrictionsTotal
Endowment net assets, beginning of year 598,851$ 4,877,977$ 5,476,828$
Investment return, net 61,947 518,792 580,739 Contributions 160,444 160,444 Appropriation of endowment assets for expenditure (25,739) (304,880) (330,619)
Endowment net assets, end of year 635,059$ 5,252,333$ 5,887,392$
Funds with Deficiencies – From time to time, certain donorrestricted endowment funds may have fair values less than the amount required to be maintained by donors or by law (underwater endowments). The Foundation interprets UPMIFA to permit spending from underwater endowments in accordance with prudent measures required under law. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were no underwater endowments.
Return Objectives and Risk Parameters – The Foundation has adopted investment and spending policies for endowment assets that attempt to provide a predictable stream of funding to programs supported by its endowment while seeking to maintain the purchasing power of the endowment assets. Endowment assets include those assets of donor-restricted funds that the Foundation must hold in perpetuity or for a donor-specified period. Under this policy, as approved by the Board of Directors, the endowment assets are invested with investment policies which emphasize preservation of capital, protection against inflation and a continuing source of income. The Board has authorized investments in equity securities up to 60% of the portfolio, fixed income securities up to 100% of the portfolio, alternative investments up to 10% of the portfolio with Investment Committee authorization and no speculative investments. The target minimum rate of return is five percent (5%) (net of fees).
Spending Policy and How the Investment Objectives Relate to Spending Policy – The endowment earnings are distributed based on a distribution policy whereby the Foundation receives four percent (4%) of the average market value of the endowment fund, which is calculated on a rolling quarterly average of the previous twelve quarters. Distributions are typically not approved when funds are underwater. The Foundation allocates distributions received to be used in accordance with donor restrictions or for the overall operations of the Foundation in the absence of donor restriction
6.
NET ASSETS WITH DONOR RESTRICTIONS
2021 2020
8. SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED BUT NOT DISBURSED
Net assets with donor restrictions are restricted for the following purposes or periods.
Subject to expenditure for specified purposes:
Foundation events 173,965$ 271,195$
Foundation programs 777,225 831,997
Scholarships 222,777 241,016
County programs 717,962 632,051
Associated accounts 135,151 117,897
Managed accounts 555,562 494,619 2,582,642 2,588,775
Subject to the passage of time: Beneficial interest in charitable trusts held by others 3,086,315 2,899,475
Endowments:
Subject to appropriation and expenditure when a specified event occurs:
Scholarship endowments 1,297,513 1,032,859
Program endowments 447,873 341,445
County endowments 367,278 287,938
Associated endowments 52,527 42,344 2,165,191 1,704,586
Subject to endowment spending policy and appropriation:
Scholarship endowments 2,284,610 2,172,981
Program endowments 1,774,300 808,027
County endowments 480,654 479,654
Associated endowments 87,085 87,085 4,626,649 3,547,747
The Foundation awards scholarships to prospective college students throughout the nation. Many of the scholarships are awarded while the student is still in middle school or high school. Once the student is in college, they must meet certain requirements for hours and grades in order to receive the proceeds. Scholarship liabilities expected to be paid in the next five years and thereafter as of December 31, 2021 are as follows:
2022 106,000$ 2023 42,850 2024 25,200 2025 15,450 2026 7,700 Thereafter 2,600 199,800$
9. FUNCTIONALIZED EXPENSES
Total
7. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Grant funding of $350,000 was awarded to the Foundation in 2015 to be used to create an ATV safety facility. The Foundation is required to use the facility in accordance with the grant requirements for a minimum of 25 years. Non-compliance with the grant requirements could result in the Foundation being required to repay funds received.
This project has been developed in conjunction with the Logan County Fairgrounds, City of Guthrie and the Logan County Economic Development Council in Guthrie to address a critical statewide and community need and public purpose. The facility was constructed on the Logan County Fairgrounds. To ensure the long-term availability of the land for this facility, the Foundation has entered into a 25-year land lease with Logan County of which the initial term expires on October 31, 2040 and includes five renewal options for five years each. The annual rent for the land lease is $1. Logan County may continue to utilize the land for other, secondary purposes so long as those purposes are not inconsistent with the primary purpose during the term of the lease.
In August 2019, the Foundation entered into a memorandum of understanding with Oklahoma State University (“OSU”) under which OSU has assumed the Logan County land lease from the Foundation and OSU will operate the ATV Safety Facility. To ensure compliance with the grant funding received to build the ATV Safety Facility, if OSU does not continue to operate the facility for its primary purpose, the Foundation has the right to reassume the Logan County land lease and related operations of the ATV Safety Facility.
The financial statements report certain categories of expenses that are attributed to more than one program or supporting function. Therefore, expenses require allocation on a reasonable basis that is consistently applied. The expenses that are allocated include salary and benefits, supplies and postage, and registration and travel which are allocated based on time and effort.
10. COVID-19
In the first quarter of 2020, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic related to the proliferation of the COVID-19 virus. Significant uncertainty about the duration and effects of the pandemic created uncertainty with federal, state, and local governments recommending significant decreases in personto-person interactions in addition to changes in other common business practices during the duration of the pandemic including the temporary closures of all non-essential businesses. The Foundation’s management believes they have been able to adjust to the temporary change in normal operations in a manner to minimize the impact to their financial position.
MAKING THE BEST BETTER
Oklahoma 4-H is the youth development organization of Oklahoma State University Extension. 4-H is dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for youth and adults to work together to create sustainable community change. This is accomplished within three primary content areas, or mission mandates:
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
4 H civic engagement programs empower young people to be well-informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world.
HEALTHY LIVING
4 H healthy living programs help 4 H youth learn how to lead lives that balance physical, mental, and emotional health.
SCIENCE
4 H science programs provide 4 H youth the opportunity to learn about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) through fun, hands-on activities and projects.
More likely to contribute to their communities.
More likely to be civically active.
More likely to make healthier choices.
More likely to contribute to participate in STEM programs.