Winn Parish 4-H members earn top honors at 2026 4-H University

Winn Parish 4-H members returned home with an impressive list of awards and accomplishments following a successful week of competition at the 2026 Louisiana 4-H University.

Parish leaders praised the students for their dedication, preparation, and hard work, noting that their efforts resulted in multiple state championships and top finishes across a wide variety of contests.

“Last night was a dream,” Winn Parish 4-H officials shared. “We are so proud of our students. Their hard work and dedication paid off.”

Among the top achievements were several state championship performances.

The Consumer Foods Evaluation Team of Catherine Page and Ella Higginbotham captured a first-place state title, while the Esports Team consisting of Kenneth Richard, Zachary Kelley, and Chanler Baker also earned a first-place finish.

Another championship was claimed in the Next Healthy Food Star Contest, where Ava Canerday, Sienna Box, and Rylan Gill secured first place honors.

In the Photography Contest, Blakelyn Busha earned a state championship with a first-place finish, while fellow competitor Maycie Poche placed ninth overall.

Several Winn Parish participants also earned podium finishes in their respective events.

In ATV Safety, Leo Bryant captured second place, while Andrew Chevallier finished fifth.

The Teens Driving Teens competition produced two top-performing teams, with Brady Fallis and Blakelyn Busha earning third place, while Gustavo Vargas and Jewel Boudreaux placed fifth.

Additional third-place finishes were earned by:

Saven Blacksher and Brady Fallis in Sports Broadcasting

Micah McManus in Zero Turn Mower Operations

Other notable accomplishments included:

Mason Yerby, Austin Caskey, and Kamdyn Howell — 4th Place, Outdoor Skills

Emily Grace Adams and Emma Miller — 6th Place, Healthy Living Demonstration

Lillie Claire Hatten — 7th Place, Healthy Living Illustrated Talk

Presley Gilcrease — 7th Place, Personal Trainer

Adalynn McDow — 7th Place, Public Speaking

In addition to contest success, Gracie Moore received special recognition as Most Fashionable in the Ready-to-Wear competition.

The outstanding results highlight the strength of Winn Parish’s 4-H program and the commitment of its members, volunteers, coaches, and families.

As the students return home with medals, awards, and memories, Winn Parish 4-H leaders say the accomplishments represent more than competition success—they reflect the leadership, responsibility, and life skills that 4-H helps develop in young people across the parish.

Congratulations to all Winn Parish 4-H members who represented their parish with excellence at the 2026 Louisiana 4-H University.