4-H Where Are They Now Extension Matters Volume 6 Number 2

Q&A with Rhiannon Page • Photo by Kevin Hudson

Originally from Port Gibson, Jonnese Goings is now an inventory control analyst at the Belk Inc. corporate office in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her 4-H background taught her to be independent and committed to whatever she sets her mind to and helped her obtain several internships and leadership positions during her college years. The leadership and public speaking skills she developed in the 4-H youth development program coordinated by the Mississippi State University Extension Service continue to benefit her in her career today.

Q: How can 4-H make a young person’s life better?

A: My 4-H and collegiate experiences allowed me to gain internships with top retail companies (PetSmart corporate office in Phoenix, Arizona, and Belk Stores of Mississippi) and learn new tasks that have afforded me the opportunity to be where I am today.

Q: What 4-H memory stands out to you and why?

A: My favorite memory was when our 4-H club visited Mississippi State University to compete in various competitions for the first time, and it was amazing! That rainy day did not diminish the excitement I gained from competing in areas I loved—public speaking and presenting via PowerPoint presentation. That day was so terrific, as we met other 4-H’ers and toured Mississippi State University.

Q: Who was the most influential person in 4-H for you?

A: The most influential person throughout my 4-H journey was Ms. Monica Beeman (MSU Extension agent in Claiborne County). Ms. Monica always went above and beyond to make sure that we reached our goals, set higher standards, and learned from every project we encountered.

4-H taught me . . .

independence, responsibility, uniqueness, intellectual stability, and the sense of being committed to whatever I put my mind to.

4-H taught me to stop . . .

being afraid of stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Because of 4-H . . .

I was able to break out of my shell and become a person who could start a conversation with anyone.

If I hadn’t been in 4-H . . .

I would have missed out on so many great opportunities.

Q: How do you carry out the 4-H pledge in your life now?

A: Currently, I carry out the 4-H pledge in my life by always providing a helping hand, being sincere with my heart, caring about the health of others, and using my head to make better decisions for myself and future generations.

Q: Why should kids join 4-H?

A: Our 4-H club made my high school experience so worth it and helped me transition into college with ease.

Interview answers have been edited for space and clarity.