Samantha Sorokti was chosen to receive the 2019 Norman V. Ryan Monroe County 4-H Youth Development Scholarship. Sorokti, a member of the Stirrups to Success 4-H club, will be heading to SUNY Morrisville in the fall to begin her studies in equine science.
Sorokti credits her 4-H experience with not only teaching her the care and reward of life with horses, but the hard work, responsibility, and ethic necessary to continue learning about her passion and her community. She has advanced her skills in communicating with others, horsemanship, prioritizing and leadership. Her leadership roles in Stirrups to Success have allowed her to organize club activities, including community service projects that benefited local food cupboards, active military, and animal rescue organizations.
Kate Logan, a volunteer leader with the Stirrups to Success 4-H club who has known Sorokti for five years, says, “I have witnessed Samantha grow from one of the most determined and responsible teenagers I have ever met, into an accomplished, mature, and promising young woman.” Logan also says, “(Sorokti) has shown a passion and devotion to horses and horsemanship that is very impressive.”
Through 4-H, Sorokti and her show horse Walker, qualified for the New York State Fair in Dressage and Hunt Seat last year. Despite Walker’s disadvantage of a clubfoot, the duo placed first in all three of their Dressage classes leaving Sorokti with “the ultimate feeling of success!” She is proud of all she and Walker have accomplished together.
The skills and confidence Sorokti has gained in 4-H, coupled with the satisfaction of continued learning and community service, have prepared her for the transition to college student.
The Norman V. Ryan scholarship is presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated leadership and community service. Special consideration is given to teens who are planning to enter a field of study or employment as a result of their 4-H activities and experiences.
The Monroe County 4-H Youth Development Program is offered through Cornell Cooperative Extension to the youth of Monroe County. 4-H is a worldwide youth development program open to all youth aged five to 19, who want to have fun, learn new skills, and explore the world. In return, youth who participate in 4-H find a supportive environment and opportunities for hands-on or “experiential” learning about things that interest them. Learn more at http://monroe.cce.cornell.edu/4-h-youth-development.
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