Lexington, SC (Paul Kirby) – Recently, 4-H Agent Erika Jones was appointed to work in Lexington County as their newest coordinator of the 4-H program. 4-H agents work with the program that's been in existence for more than a century.
4-H was first started to teach rural students about new, modern farming techniques. Then, they could go home and share that knowledge with their families who were often suspicious or unaccepting of new ideas. It’s a very hands-on program that actively got the students involved, as it still does today. This program is under the purview of what was and still are the Land Grant colleges. In South Carolina, our Land Grant college has now grown into Clemson University. Counties have Clemson Extension offices across our state and the 4-H agent works out of those offices.
Erika is a native of South Carolina and hails from Columbia. She grew up involved in the Lexington County 4-H Horse Club and went on to serve on the South Carolina 4-H State Teen Council.
Erika is a graduate of Clemson University with a Bachelor of Science in
Animal and Veterinary Sciences. During her time at Clemson University, she was an intern
for Clemson Extension Services, working in the State 4-H Office and for the Horse Program
coordinator. At Clemson, Erika was also involved with the Equestrian Team and the Block
and Bridle Club. Erika’s passion for 4-H and Extension comes from the impact 4-H made on
her life during her formative years. She is excited to return to her home county and to
continue giving back to the organization that gave her so much.
If you are a student that’s interested in the many programs that 4-H has to offer, go to their national website at 4H.org and check it out. If you have questions about how to become involved in 4-here, call Erika at (803) 238-2183.