NJ 4-H Welcomes 2027 Agriculture Ambassador Cohort
Cultivating the Next Generation of Leaders
PUBLISHED ON: October 16, 2026
New Brunswick, NJ — The future of agriculture relies on young individuals who can champion the industry, promote its value, and contribute to its direction. Fourteen New Jersey 4-H members from eight counties have been selected for the 2027 NJ 4-H Agriculture Ambassador Program, a statewide leadership initiative aimed at preparing teens to represent and promote agriculture across New Jersey. Led by Melissa Bright, 4-H agent in Somerset County, the program is a partnership between National 4-H Council and Nutrien.
Program Overview
Launched in the fall of 2024, this program offers high school youth opportunities to deepen their understanding of agriculture while developing leadership, public speaking, communication, and advocacy skills. Open to active New Jersey 4-H members in grades 9 through 13, the program attracts teens with interests in farming, animal science, food systems, and natural resources.
Throughout the program year, ambassadors will:
- Connect with agricultural industry professionals.
- Explore career pathways.
- Learn about current industry issues.
"Educational programs, agricultural tours, leadership development experiences, and outreach activities help [ambassadors] build confidence in communicating agriculture’s importance to diverse audiences," said Bright.
The 2027 Cohort
The 2027 cohort represents the following counties: Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Monmouth, Salem, Somerset, Union, and Warren. Together, these young leaders will build connections across the state while gaining firsthand insight into the people, practices, and systems that sustain New Jersey agriculture.
By equipping youth with knowledge and skills to engage their communities, New Jersey 4-H is fostering a new generation of agricultural advocates, professionals, and leaders ready to advance the industry's future.