Welcome Ben Weikert!

Please welcome Ben Weikert to the 4-H Science Team! Ben started today in Adams County as a fixed term 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator. Ben will work through June 30, 2013 while Ed Bender is on special assignment with the National 4-H Council.

Ben graduated with an honors degree in Animal Science from West Virginia University, and is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science degree in Agricultural and Extension Education from Penn State University, University Park. While at WVU, Ben was the high individual on the school’s livestock judging team. He was also an instructor of several livestock evaluation courses, participated in Block and Bridle club, and was a member of the West Virginia University Symphony Orchestra. During his time at University Park; Ben was an active member of the Collegiate 4-H Club. He also was active with the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education Graduate Student Association and the Department Extension Committee.

Ben was a 10 year member of the Adams County 4-H program where his major project areas focused on animal science and leadership. He also interned with Adams County 4-H in the summers of 2009 and 2010. He is excited to be back in the county and to help educate the area’s youth through fun yet practical hands on learning experiences. Ben is currently working on planning summer programming, including Safety Day and Robotics Day camps.

When not busy on the job or with school responsibilities, Ben enjoys competing at and judging livestock shows across the country. He and his family raise national level champion shorthorn cattle on their small farm in Gettysburg.