COLUMBIA, Mo. – States’ 4-H International, a prominent provider of international student exchange programs, announced the appointment of Missouri 4-H alumna Shea Fitzgerald as a Young Professional Board Member. Missouri 4-H Program Director Lupita Fabregas also serves on the States’ 4-H International Board.

Dedicated to enhancing world understanding and global citizenship, States’ 4-H International specializes in high-quality 4-H international cultural immersion and exchange programs for 4-H youths, says Joyce Taylor, University of Missouri Extension educational program associate in charge of Missouri 4-H’s exchange program.

Fitzgerald’s appointment reflects the organization's commitment to engaging young individuals in shaping the future of global education and cultural exchange, Taylor said. Fitzgerald brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, including her time on the State 4-H Council as a west central regional representative and her international experiences. She served as a 4-H international delegate to Japan, where she spent a month in Nara discussing cultural differences and learning about agricultural practices. Shea also spent a semester studying agriculture at Perrotis College in Thessaloniki, Greece, during her college days at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, where she graduated with a bachelor of science in agribusiness management and marketing.

Fitzgerald currently serves as a grain merchandiser in Enid, Oklahoma, for ADM. Her role involves cross-country merchandise of grain around Oklahoma and Kansas, primarily wheat and corn. She also manages shipments for export, overseeing logistics from trucks to barges or rail cars destined for the Gulf of Mexico for international export. Shea gathers market information on a micro and macro level to make informed decisions on buying and selling grain.

“I am excited to join the Young Professional Board of States’ 4-H International and contribute to its mission of promoting global citizenship among youth,” said Fitzgerald. “I believe that my background in agribusiness and international experiences will allow me to make meaningful contributions to the organization.”

Missouri 4-H has been a partner with States’ 4-H International since 1978. Each year, the organization hosts delegates from other countries and sends youths on international experiences. “These experiences mold a person into a better citizen, create a pride in our heritage and create a warm spot in families around the world,” Taylor said.

More information on Missouri 4-H global experiences.

About Missouri 4-H

Missouri 4-H grows today’s youth and prepares tomorrow’s leaders. With a blend of time-tested traditions and innovative hands-on learning, Missouri youth explore and find their spark in programs ranging from agriculture and conservation to aerospace and career development. Through clubs, programs, camps, in-school and after-school experiences, University of Missouri Extension faculty, staff and thousands of volunteers guide youth in developing essential skills, building confidence and fostering connections. Together, they inspire young people to make a real difference in their communities, their country and the world. To learn more about Missouri 4-H, visit 4h.missouri.edu.