Two Northeast students earn statewide honors from Mississippi 4-H

by Michael H. Miller

BOONEVILLE, Miss. -- (09/04/2025) — Two Northeast Mississippi Community College students recently brought home top honors from the Mississippi 4-H, the state's youth development organization, showcasing their leadership, service, and dedication to their communities.

Ethan McCreary of Booneville, representing Lee County, was selected as the recipient of the prestigious Director's Award, one of the organization's highest recognitions.

Fellow Northeast student Daniel Beene of Corinth and Alcorn County was honored with the Troy and Mildred Holliday 4-H Award, highlighting his outstanding contributions to the program.

Another northeast Mississippian, Lee Taylor of Prentiss County, also received a statewide honor, earning the Ike Campbell Memorial Award.

In addition to McCreary, Beene, and Taylor's achievements, five other Mississippi 4-H members were honored during the statewide ceremony:

• Chawan Jernigan of Winston County -- Gladiola Branscome Harris 4-H Award
• Layton Varner of Rankin County -- Deep South Equipment Dealers Association 4-H Award
• John Clayton Kitchens of Lauderdale County -- Mississippi Volunteer Leaders 4-H Award
• Abygail Buchanan of Rankin County -- Rennette L. Martin Endowed 4-H Award
• Samuel McDaniel of Lincoln County -- Marian Carmichael 4-H Award

Mississippi 4-H, which operates through the Mississippi State University Extension Service, provides youth with opportunities to gain experience in leadership, citizenship, and service.

Mississippi 4-H's annual awards highlight members who have gone above and beyond in making a difference in their communities.