SDSU Extension hosts successful inaugural 4-H Gala

BROOKINGS, S.D. – South Dakota State University Extension hosted a successful 4-H Gala in November.

The first-ever 4-H Gala was held on Nov. 22, 2025, at the SDSU Alumni Center in Brookings. Themed “Bright Lights, Bold Legacy,” the event included live and silent auctions, entertainment by Dueling Pianos, awards and guest speaker Callee Bauman-Wachter, a 4-H alumna and precision planting sales agent at the family-owned Bauman Agency in Huron.

Funds raised will go toward the Family Consumer Sciences National Championship and Conference trip to San Antonio, SkillsX by 4-H, summer performing arts, camps/outdoors education and the State 4-H Ambassador program.

In addition to the fundraising, Delaney Zoss, of Sanborn County, received the Youth Service Award. Agtegra Cooperative, an agricultural cooperative based in Aberdeen, received the Friend of 4-H award.

The night also featured accomplishments and innovations from 4-H members across the state and showcased stories of service, problem-solving and progress led by South Dakota’s 4-H youth.

Photos of the event are available online at https://sdsuextension.smugmug.com/Events/n-Vb7Xj7/4-H-Gala-2025.

For more information on the 4-H Gala or youth development programs, visit extension.sdstate.edu or email sdsu.4h@sdstate.edu.

– South Dakota State University Extension