Cherokee County 4-H Youth Leadership Council Visits Alabama State Capitol
MONTGOMERY — Members of the Cherokee County 4-H Youth Leadership Council recently traveled to Montgomery for an immersive, day-long visit to the Alabama State Capitol, where students gained firsthand exposure to state government, leadership, and Alabama history.
During the visit, the group toured the historic Capitol building and had the opportunity to meet several state leaders. Highlights included a photo opportunity with Governor Kay Ivey and a surprise meeting with Alabama State Treasurer Young Boozer. Students also spent time observing the legislative process from the House Gallery with Rep. Ginny Shaver and visited the Senate floor with Sen. Andrew Jones.
In addition to legislative activities, the students explored other facets of state government and Alabama’s agricultural heritage. The group visited the MOOseum, enjoyed lunch, and learned about the work of the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association from Executive Vice President Erin Beasley. They also spent time with Hunter McBrayer, director of the Alabama Farmers Federation’s Young Farmers Division, and Kim Earwood, director of the Federation’s Women’s Leadership program.
The day included an educational tour of the Alabama Department of Archives and History, where students met with Director Steve Murray and learned about the preservation of the state’s historical records. The trip concluded with students observing a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing, providing insight into how agricultural policy is discussed and shaped at the state level.
As an added bonus, the group toured the Capitol Journal news station studio, offering a behind-the-scenes look at political journalism. Students also enjoyed an unexpected moment when they crossed paths with former University of Alabama football coach Nick Saban in the Capitol.
Organizers said the students represented Cherokee County well, asking thoughtful questions and actively engaging with officials throughout the day. The trip was made possible through the support and cooperation of local and state leaders, with special recognition given to Sen. Andrew Jones and his wife, Summer Jones, who spent the day guiding the group and coordinating activities in Montgomery.
4-H leaders noted that experiences like this help students connect classroom lessons to real-world civic engagement, fostering leadership skills and a deeper understanding of government in action.
