Three Vienna Students Selected for 4-H “Speaking for Illinois” Leadership Experience
FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
VIENNA, Ill., (KBSI) – Three students from Vienna High School have been selected to participate in the Illinois 4-H “Speaking for Illinois” program, a leadership and civic engagement experience held in Springfield.
Juniors Madaline Bergmann and Grace Laubscher, along with sophomore Olivia Quertermous, will represent the region as part of the program, which brings together student leaders from across the state to learn about government and advocacy.
The event will provide participants with opportunities to engage with state leaders, visit the Illinois State Capitol, and develop communication and leadership skills. Students also take part in sessions focused on public speaking, civic responsibility, and representing their communities.
The program is organized through University of Illinois Extension 4-H, which coordinates travel, lodging, and programming for participating students. Throughout the experience, students collaborate with peers from across Illinois while representing Southern Illinois counties.
Local 4-H officials said the program is designed to empower youth to become more active in their communities and to better understand the role they can play in shaping the future.
The selected Vienna students will join others from across the state in Springfield, gaining firsthand experience in government and leadership while serving as representatives of their schools and communities.
4H sponsor Mrs. Leslie Bradley shared, “This is an incredible opportunity for these students to grow as leaders and use their voices in a meaningful way. They’ve worked hard to get here, and I’m excited to see them represent our school and community so well.”
“This program gives our students a chance to step into leadership roles beyond the classroom and represent our community at the state level. Opportunities like this help them grow in confidence and understand the impact that their voice can have. We could not be more proud of Mady, Grace, and Olivia,” shared Superintendent Dr. Joshua Stafford.
