The New York State 4-H Animal Science programs are housed in the Department of Animal Science at Cornell University with collaborations with county and regional CCE educators from across the state. There are active extension programs for youth interested in both livestock and companion animals, as well as other facets of agriculture and biology.
The Animal Science programs strive to embody the mission, vision, and values of NYS 4-H while also providing youth with real-world skills, leadership opportunities, and broad knowledge of the world around them.
NYS 4-H Mission and Vision Statements
Mission
4-H connects youth to hands-on learning opportunities that help them grow into competent, caring, contributing members of society.
Vision
A world in which youth and adults learn, grow and work together as catalysts for positive change.
NYS 4-H Values
- 4-H reflects the principles of positive youth development, experiential learning and the importance of having fun.
- 4-H encourages family involvement and support by connecting families to their communities and to one another.
- 4-H promotes the development of skills that help young people succeed in higher education, their chosen career path and as members of their families and communities.
- 4-H is committed to achieving a community of staff, volunteers and program participants that reflects the diversity of New York State.
- 4-H creates opportunities for youth to have a voice in the development and evaluation of the program at the local, state and national level.
- 4-H experiences reflect local needs and culture while also preparing youth for success in a rapidly changing world.
- 4-H makes science come alive by connecting youth to Cornell University and the research-based resources of the land grant college system.
Safe Spaces
Within New York State 4-H, we prioritize creating a safe, inclusive space for learning, sharing, and collaboration. This space is welcoming to people from diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. Diversity includes, but is not limited to: race, color, religion, political beliefs, national or ethnic origin, immigration status, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, transgender status, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, educational level, learning style, socio-economic status, physical appearance, body size, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
The NYS 4-H Safe Space logo is a sign of our commitment to nurturing this safe environment for all participants in NYS 4-H programs. You may see it throughout the fair and around the state at many different 4-H programs.