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 Kassidy Brady, a member of the Dimmick Braves in LaSalle County.

Brady’s favorite project is showing her Black Angus cattle. When asked what she learned from 4-H, Brady responded, “4-H has taught me how to be a leader, how to be a confident public speaker, and how to always persevere and never quit.”

Looking back, her favorite memory from 4-H was as an 11-year-old when she received reserved grand champion with her heifer, Candy.

Brady offered some advice to younger 4-H members. “I would tell any 4-Her to never let the fear of failing hold you back,” she said. “It can be scary to try new things, but stepping out of your comfort zone will only help to make you a better leader.”

Brady plans to attend the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign and major in chemistry.

In closing, Brady expressed her appreciation to all 4-H volunteers but especially to her club leader. “All 4-H volunteers deserve a huge thank you, but my Dimmick Braves club leader, Michelle Rich, has helped form me into a better leader and has trusted me to take on responsibilities even when I wasn’t sure if I could handle them. Thank you Mrs. Rich!”

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.