LA SALLE COUNTY - The University of Illinois Extension Bureau, LaSalle and Marshall-Putnam 4-H is honoring the seniors of 2020. This week, they are highlighting Ashleigh Collins, a member of North Stars in LaSalle County. She recently concluded her senior year at Mendota High School.

Interior design and sheep have been her favorite projects. She has shown sheep for six years and has made four interior design projects.

When asked what she has learned from 4-H, Collins replied, “4-H helped me learn more about community service and how I can be a better member of my community. I also enjoyed working on committees and being part of a successful team.”

Favorite memories for Collins are from her club gatherings. “North Stars is like an extended family and we always enjoy our potlucks and other events in addition to our monthly meetings,” she said. “I also really enjoy the county fair.”

She advises younger 4-H members to get involved with many projects, even when they do not know much about that area. “There are always others to help you along the way,” she noted.

Collins plans to attend Oklahoma State University in the fall where she will pursue a degree in animal science. She would like to continue her education to obtain advanced degrees and work as an animal nutritionist.

Collins expressed her gratitude to her 4-H leader, Staci Sundberg, who introduced her to 4-H, always supported her, and recognized her as a leader in the club.

If you have questions or if you would like information about joining 4-H, e-mail Toni Pienta at fusinatt@illinois.edu for LaSalle County, Danielle Gapinski at des85@illinois.edu for Bureau County or Anne Scheel at amscheel@illinois.edu for Marshall-Putnam, or call University of Illinois Extension – Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit at (815) 224-0889.