by Betsy Fradd
Washington State University State 4-H Teen Leadership Coordinator Jan Klein, was honored Wednesday by the Washington State Legislature as an Outstanding Civic Educator. Klein, who is from the Lincoln County town of Edwall, was recognized for her work with youth on the local, regional, state and national level.
The Legislature recognized Klein during the second annual Civic Education Day in Olympia . Jeri Thompson, former U.S. Secretary of Senate, and leadership from the Washington State House of Representatives and Senate joined civic education organizations from across the state in honoring 12 outstanding civic educators from Washington.
"Jan is the spark plug that has re-ignited our entire 4-H Citizenship program,” said Pat BoyEs, Washington State University 4-H Youth Development Director. “Her energy, drive and sheer force of will have built a strong coalition all across Washington for Civic Education and Engagement.”
Klein is responsible for teen programming and training at events throughout the state's 39 counties in addition to mentoring youth delegations at national events.
“4-H empowers youth to engage in leadership, citizenship and life skill development,” said Klein. “4-H teens see government as something within their reach citizens and that comes through understanding and practicing within the system.”
Klein was nominated for the award by Representative Bob Sump of the 7th legislative district.
"I am deeply grateful for the work that Jan and the 4-H Know Your Government program have done to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders. I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting the students over the years and I am always impressed with their enthusiasm for participating in Washington's future,” said Sump.
Caleb Klein
