Cheryl Sullivan was elected at the organization’s virtual annual general meeting on May 7
By Jackie Clark
Staff Writer
Farms.com
Cheryl Sullivan is excited to serve in her new role as president of the Ontario 4-H Council Board of Directors.
Over the years, Sullivan has contributed to 4-H as a member, volunteer, leader and board member. She also just finished her term as vice-president.
“4-H has always been a passion of mine,” she told Farms.com. Sullivan has participated in both agricultural and life skills projects within 4-H.
While the agricultural component is the backbone of the organization, “not every member is interested in that aspect,” she said. “So, the life skills part of 4-H incorporates a greater number of people. … Both sides are important,” she explained.
She hopes to continue to facilitate programming that teaches members how to care for animals, but also helps them develop skills like public speaking, problem-solving, communication, and “how to think and adapt,” she added.
Finding creative solutions and ways to adapt are particularly important in the age of COVID-19.
Right now, “everything’s a little bit different,” Sullivan said. “Many of our volunteers are running online virtual clubs.”
Volunteers and leaders are finding alternative ways to deliver 4-H programming while keeping members safe and respecting public health protocols. “We’ll have to wait and see,” when we can hold livestock events again, Sullivan said.