The N.C. State 4-H Congress is an annual educational event sponsored by the
4-H Youth Development Department at N.C. State University and planned by the
State 4-H Council. This council is composed of 32 young people who serve as
officers from their respective districts and 4 state officers who are elected at
Congress. The Congress will be attended by approximately 800 youths ranging in
age from 9 to 19 and representing every county in North Carolina.
The major purposes of N.C. 4-H Congress are:
To perpetuate the reputation of 4-H as a major state-wide educational
program.
To improve delegates knowledge of current issues through educational
experiences such as speakers, discussion groups, workshops, etc.
To provide an opportunity to develop and exercise leadership skills through
serving on committees and participating in certain programs.
To provide an opportunity for delegates to participate in the democratic
process through campaigning for and electing state 4-H officers.
To provide recreational and social experiences for delegates.
To select winners in presentations and certain activities through state
contests.
To provide recognition for project, activity, and scholarship winners.
Candlelighting Ceremony
The Candlelighting Ceremony coordinated by the NC 4-H Honor Club is one of
the highlights of congress. Each male delegate forms the H's while the female
delegates form the clover leaves around them. NC 4-H Honor Club members form the
stem of the clover.
