“I have always loved the competitive side of 4-H so when I went to Teen Conference for the first time and saw the Emerald Winners they gave me something to aspire to reach,” said Clay Comer, 2020 Emerald Award Winner. “However, as I got older I realized that winning truly isn’t everything. 4-H isn’t about getting awards; it’s about getting experiences that will help you throughout life.”
Clay Comer is a senior 4-H member from Winchester, Clark County, who got his start in 4-H by attending camp when he was eight years old. His first project was the country ham, which he has participated in ever since he was nine. He also has been involved in shooting sports and leadership clubs in his county where he is the founder of the Clark County 4-H Adventure Club.
Clay’s favorite experience in 4-H has been attending the Presidential Inauguration in 2017. Through that experience, he was inspired to take on more 4-H leadership roles. As a member of State Teen Council, he has enjoyed planning state events and serving as the chair of the Elections Committee.
“Kentucky 4-H has had a monumental impact on Clay’s development and he has, in return, contributed to the advancement of the program,” said Rachel Noble, Specialist for 4-H Youth Development, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “Through 4-H Clay has developed skills for a lifetime and is an inspiration to younger 4-Hers and youth development professionals.”
Clay is a graduate of George Rogers Clark High School and is currently attending Northern Kentucky University where he is majoring in computer science. After graduating college, he is interested in software development or database management as a career. Outside of 4-H, you can find Clay hiking, spending time outdoors, playing video games and hanging out with friends; or you might find him playing tennis or golf. Clay has also dedicated his time to other organizations, such as Boy Scouts where he completed all the requirements to become an Eagle Scout.
Clay’s favorite part of 4-H are all the youth he has gotten to meet and the experiences 4-H has given to him. “Without 4-H I never would have met some of my greatest friends and certainly wouldn’t have all the skills I currently do,” said Clay. He adds 4-H is filled with some of the best teens in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The Achievement Program has given him the opportunity to meet some of the most passionate, hardworking youth.
To an up and coming 4-Her Clay says if you are interested in a club – go for it! You may discover you like something new. Clay reminds us “4-H is a youth development program that brings together people from all walks of life to learn, lead, and be friends.”
