The 2025 Texas 4-H Roundup lit up the Texas A&M University campus as 2,200 attendees from across the state gathered June 2–5 for a high-energy week of competitions, scholarships, hands-on learning and new programs focused on belonging, mentorship and workforce-ready skills.
Hosted annually by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, Texas 4-H Roundup is the largest agriculture-focused youth leadership event in the state and one of the largest Texas 4-H Youth Development Program events in the country. Youth from Texas 4-H districts qualify to compete in contests or participate in noncompetitive learning opportunities in agriculture and livestock, family and community health, leadership and citizenship, natural resources and STEM.
“The first week of June is always an exciting time for Texas 4-H as senior-level members come together to celebrate the power of youth leadership, learning and lifelong friendships at Roundup,” said Montza Williams, Ed.D., AgriLife Extension 4-H program director.
This year’s theme, “Electrify,” emphasized energy, innovation and connection, and the event marked the highest attendance since 2019, a reflection of growing engagement across Texas communities.
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Record-setting scholarships and one new award
In addition to contests and exhibitions, Texas 4-H awarded more than $2.7 million in scholarships to youth at Roundup, including a newly established $30,000 scholarship awarded to a top scholar, said Callie Cline, AgriLife Extension program specialist for Texas 4-H.
“This is a powerful demonstration of the impact 4-H has on Texas youth,” she said. “These scholarships represent an investment not only in individual futures but in communities across our state. And, this year’s increased attendance shows that more families than ever are finding value in what 4-H offers.”
“When we invest in young people, we invest in the future of Texas. Through every 4-H experience, we’re lighting a spark that helps youth discover their potential, build confidence and become the kind of leaders our communities need for generations to come.”
Montza Williams, Ed.D.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service 4-H program director
New initiatives promote belonging and mentorship
In line with AgriLife Extension’s dedication to strengthening and cultivating the next generation of Texas citizens and leaders, two programs debuted at Roundup this year: the Positive Youth Development booth and the 4-H Youth Entrepreneurship Showcase.
“We continue to develop 4-H to ensure youth are gaining relevant life skills and to meet the needs of today’s youths and communities,” Williams said. “This year, we amplified that mission with new, purpose-driven experiences, from leadership workshops that prepare young people for real-world challenges to entrepreneurial platforms that empower them to turn ideas into action. It’s about meeting today’s needs while shaping tomorrow’s leaders.”
The Positive Youth Development booth focused on fostering a sense of belonging and mentorship by encouraging developmental relationships and helping youth connect over shared interests.
Activities included writing thank-you notes, playing card games and creating personalized buttons with messages such as “Introverted but willing to discuss bees” or “Ask me about hot dogs.”
“The idea is that you make a button and find someone with a similar interest, so you can create a sense of belonging,” said Alex Kabli, curriculum development program specialist at the Texas 4-H state office.
Entrepreneurship showcase builds business skills
The 4-H Youth Entrepreneurship Showcase provided young business owners with a platform to present and sell their handmade products and crafts
Among the participants were siblings Spencer and Clara Hamilton of San Antonio. Clara, 11, sold hand-sewn accessories, bags and clothing through her business, Claire’s Creations, while Spencer, 9, handled customer interactions and sales.
“I like that you get to work hard and learn new things,” said Spencer, who also participates in 4-H animal projects. “Selling is fun; we made $398 on the first day.”
Their mother, Michelle Hamilton, praised the program for offering real-world experience.
“This is a whole family project,” she said. “My daughter sews with her grandmother; my husband teaches them business; and I help with logistics. It’s 4-H in action, hands-on learning and family engagement.”
Building belonging, strengthening communities
From the statewide competition floors to the entrepreneurship showcase, the event underscored Texas 4-H’s mission to equip young Texans to lead with confidence, build community and drive innovation.
“When we invest in young people, we invest in the future of Texas,” Williams said. “Through every 4-H experience, we’re lighting a spark that helps youth discover their potential, build confidence and become the kind of leaders our communities need for generations to come.”
