This year, Smith County was represented by three outstanding 4-H’ers at the 79th Annual Tennessee 4-H Congress, which was held in Murfreesboro and Nashville on March 7-11, 2026, and attended by over 300 youth from across the state. 

The purpose of Tennessee 4-H Congress is to help youth grow as leaders, active citizens, and future professionals and allow them to gain firsthand experience in state government. This year’s 4-H Congress theme was “Grow with Green”. 

4-H’ers Callie Butler, Turner Harville, and Evy Quijano spent the week strengthening their leadership and citizenship skills through unique and meaningful hands-on learning experiences. 

Callie Butler is a 10th grade student at Smith County High School, and Turner Harville and Evy Quijano are both 10th grade members of our Smith County 4-H Homeschool Club.

During their time at 4-H Congress, Callie, Turner, and Evy got to participate in elections, create and debate bills as Senators or Representatives, visit the Tennessee State Capitol and Legislative Plaza, tour the Tennessee State Museum, and take a ride on the General Jackson Showboat on the Cumberland River. 

On Monday afternoon, our Smith County 4-H’ers met with local leaders including Senator Paul Bailey, Representative Michael Hale, Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Holt, and Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan King during their visit to the Tennessee State Capitol.

Callie Butler served as a Senator and our County Reporter for 4-H Congress. “Attending the 2026 Tennessee 4-H Congress was an amazing experience where I got to meet new people, learn new things, and represent my county,” Callie said. “It helped me grow as a leader and build confidence while sharing my interests in agriculture and 4-H. It was a memorable opportunity that taught me valuable skills and made me even more excited to stay involved in 4-H.”

4-H Congress is a fun and educational experience that empowers youth to be active citizens and leaders in their communities. We are incredibly proud of Callie, Turner, and Evy for representing Smith County so well and taking advantage of this prestigious leadership opportunity!

Smith County’s own Lisa Harville also attended 4-H Congress this year as an adult volunteer leader and a member of the 4-H VOLS State Committee.

If you have any questions about the many opportunities that Smith County 4-H can offer our local youth, please email me at rpetty@utk.edu or call our office at 615-735-2900.