North Carolina 4-H celebrated its graduating seniors in a new way this year, hosting its first-ever 4-H Signing Season event on July 21, 2026, during State 4-H Congress. As part of the Beyond Ready initiative, the ceremony recognized 45 graduating seniors representing 32 counties and all five Extension districts.
Inspired by traditional athletic signing days, 4-H Signing Season celebrates the many pathways young people pursue after graduation. The initiative reinforces that every 4-H member leaves the program with the confidence, communication and critical thinking skills needed to thrive wherever life leads.
Whether pursuing college, technical training, careers or other opportunities, each participant celebrated their path forward following high school and reflected on how 4-H helped prepare them for the future.
People are also reading…
Celebrating every path forward
For generations, North Carolina 4-H has empowered young people through hands-on learning experiences that help them discover their passions, develop leadership skills and prepare for their futures. Through public speaking, civic engagement, workforce development, service-learning and leadership opportunities, members gain experiences that make them Beyond Ready for college, careers and life.
Dr. Shannon McCollum, interim state 4-H program leader, reflected on the significance of the inaugural 4-H Signing Season celebration and what it means to 4-H members.
"Signing Season is about celebrating the many pathways to success," McCollum said. "Every graduate's journey is unique, but they all share something in common: the experiences, relationships, and life skills they gained through North Carolina 4-H."
She added that 4-H prepares young people to succeed no matter where their future leads.
"Whether they are headed to college, beginning a career, serving in the military, or pursuing technical training, these young people are Beyond Ready to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond. We are incredibly proud of each of them and look forward to seeing the impact they will make."
The inaugural Signing Season ceremony, held during 4-H Congress, brought together graduating members, families, volunteers, Extension professionals and fellow 4-H'ers from across the state to celebrate this milestone. As each senior was recognized for their plans after high school, the event showcased the many directions North Carolina 4-H members take after graduation and the lasting impact of their 4-H experiences.
Every graduate's journey is unique, but they all share something in common: the experiences, relationships, and life skills they gained through North Carolina 4-H. –Shannon McCollum
Logan Sundbom, a 4-H member in Edgecombe County, shared her thoughts on participating in North Carolina's first Signing Season celebration.
"It was a cool way to end my time in 4-H," Sundbom said. "Walking across the stage while everyone cheered was a really special way to celebrate everything I've experienced over the years. I'm really glad I got to share that moment with my 4-H family."
Beyond Ready, for anything
As the first Signing Season celebration in North Carolina, the ceremony reflects NC 4-H's continued commitment to preparing young people for success after high school. Recognizing graduates at one of the program's premier statewide events underscores the lasting impact of positive youth development in preparing the next generation of leaders for the future.
Andy Ferrin, senior vice president and chief strategy officer at National 4-H Council, emphasized the importance of preparing young people for whatever path they choose after high school.
"At National 4-H Council, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to be Beyond Ready, ready for work, ready for life, and ready to lead with confidence, curiosity, and purpose," Ferrin said. "There is no single right path. There is only your path. And because of your experiences in 4-H, you are Beyond Ready to take it."
Among the 45 seniors recognized, their plans showcase the many paths available to 4-H members after high school, including higher education, technical training and the workforce.
Together, they represent a wide range of future careers, from agriculture and engineering to healthcare, education and the skilled trades, highlighting the breadth of skills and interests developed through North Carolina 4-H.
Representing communities across North Carolina, this year's participants also reflected the statewide reach of 4-H as they began the next chapter of their lives. Throughout the event, many shared the experiences that shaped their 4-H journeys and helped prepare them for the future.
Looking ahead
As North Carolina 4-H continues to expand opportunities through the Beyond Ready initiative, Signing Season establishes a new tradition for recognizing graduating members and celebrating the many paths they choose to pursue.
While the ceremony marked the conclusion of each senior's 4-H journey, it also celebrated the beginning of a new chapter. Equipped with the experiences, relationships and skills developed through North Carolina 4-H, this year's graduates are ready to pursue their goals and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
