We celebrate the recipients of the 2023-2024 California 4-H Higher Education Scholarships.

You all are dedicated and passionate about pursuing academic or vocational education at a higher level. See the stupendous recipients below.

Dean Memorial Legacy Scholarship, $1,000

This scholarship is given to students pursuing any field of scholastic endeavor. Candidates are judged on how 4-H has influenced their future plans, their involvement with leadership and civic engagement experiences, and demonstrating a level of skill and knowledge in any project area. This scholarship fund is provided by Bob and Pat Dean, devoted 4-H supporters for nearly 40 years. Without children of their own, Bob and Pat considered the 4-H youth their children and use this scholarship to insure the future of their 4-H family.

Sudharsan Gopalakrishnan, Contra Costa County

Sudharsan graduated high school in 2023 and plans to study Computer Science at Harvey Mudd College. Sudharsan had a host of experiences in 4-H that cultivated his passion for engineering, robotics, and community service. In Sudharsan's own words, "through my extensive involvement in 4-H, I have not only honed my technical skills but also developed crucial leadership, teamwork, and project management abilities".

Rebekah McPeek, San Joaquin County

Rebekah graduated high school in 2023 and is studying animal science at Texas A&M University, Kingsville with the long-term goal of pursuing veterinary medicine. In Rebekah's words, "my 4-H experiences influenced me to want to become someone who advocates for the topics that I believe in and pursue a degree in the field of Agriculture. With [what] 4-H provided me, I am where I am today."

Clarissa Shane, San Joaquin County

Clarissa is currently pursuing her master's degree in Oral History at Columbia University. Clarissa attributes her interests in public speaking, activism, storytelling, and overall educational decisions to her experiences in the CA 4-H program. In Clarissa's own words, in 4-H, "I was able to identify my personal values such as respect and service as well as gain crucial communication skills through my involvement with other youth and adults in the local community."

Mabel W. Jacks Scholarship, $2,000

This scholarship is given to students pursuing any field of scholastic endeavor. The Mabel W. Jacks Endowment Fund is in memory of R.C. Jacks, an enthusiastic supporter of both 4-H and FFA.

Cody Dowdell, Stanislaus County

Cody is currently studying Electrical Engineering and Industrial Electronics at Modesto Junior College. Cody's passion for helping others through innovation and sustainability can be seen throughout his academic and 4-H careers. Not only has 4-H instilled confidence and courage in Cody, but it has "opened [his] eyes to many world needs and the out-of-the-box engineering careers that serve those needs".

Megna Nayar, Santa Clara County

Megan graduated high school in 2023 and is currently pursuing Economics at UC Santa Barbara. Throughout Megna's 4-H career, she developed skills in analytics, leadership, civic engagement, and particularly, equity literacy. These skills, and her toolbox of others, have equipped Megna with the "ability to make an impact in [her] field" and the passion to address "education, poverty, and more with an economic perspective".

Morgan Sweet, Madera County

Morgan graduated high school in 2023 and is studying Sports Business at Fresno State University. With a passion for sports, Morgan has been a leader since preschool. Morgan credits her leadership skills to her time in 4-H. In Morgan's words, "4-H has opened my eyes into many future possibilities" with a Business major. 

Camille Thomason, Napa County

Camille graduated high school in 2023 and is finishing her first year at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt as a Business Administration major. As a 4-H Camp enthusiastic and former CA 4-H State Ambassador, Camille has had many opportunities to develop communication, event planning, and media literacy skills through her 4-H experiences. In Camille's own words, "all of these skills will help me in college and in my career. I am glad I had a chance to learn...by doing with 4-H."  

Samarin Family Vocational Scholarship, $1,000

This scholarship is given to candidates who are enrolled or will be enrolled in a vocational/trade school or junior college vocational training program in the United States. Vocational education refers to organized educational programs that are directly related to the preparation of individuals for employment or for additional preparation for a career requiring education other than a baccalaureate or advanced degree.

Elisabeth Gage, Monterey County

Elisabeth is currently working towards her Journalism degree at Belmont University. Ever since Elisabeth was a little girl, she has loved to give speeches and perform, and her time in 4-H refined her public speaking skills. Now, thanks to the lifelong skills 4-H provided her, Elisabeth has "the confidence to speak in front of anyone or any size crowd".

We congratulate our 2023-2024 recipients.

Whether you are entering the higher education space for the first time or entering the masters degree program, you are a rock star! Keep up the good work and remember that your CA 4-H family is rooting for you!

Applications are open for 2025 Higher Education Scholarships

If you under the age of 25 years old and pursuing a higher education, consider applying for a California 4-H Higher Education Scholarship. Scholarships will be awarded in 2025. For more information about requirements and timelines, visit the 4-H Higher Education Scholarships page on the California 4-H Resource Center.