Erika ‘Ricki’ Leal

    NAE4-HA / NAE4-HYDP
    2015

    Regional 4-H Agent – Associate Department Head Rutgers Cooperative Extension

    Wayne, NJ

    Erika ” Leal was raised in New Jersey and was a Passaic Co. 4-H member for 5 years. In 1969 she started with the New Jersey 4-H Youth Development Program as a 40% Program Associate in Passaic Co. In 1978 she was promoted to a 70% County 4-H Agent and became full-time in 1981. At this time she received her Master’ Degree from Montclair State College. She also graduated from the National 4-H Executive Development Institute in 1989. During a period of re-organization, she served as Interim 4-H Youth Development Department Chair in 1995. ealrHer final assignment from 1989 until her retirement in 1999 was in the academic rank as Regional Agent – North (11 counties) and Associate Department Chair.

    Ricki was active in New Jersey and national 4-H associations, serving as state president in 1979, NAE4-HA regional Policy and Resolutions Committee contact in 1983 and elected North East Regional Director in 1984. In 1992 she was elected NAE4-HA President-Elect, becoming President in 1993. In 1994 she was chosen secretary of the National Joint Council of Extension Professionals. Since 2008 she has been involved with Feed the Homeless. Since 2002 she has volunteered with the Orange/Sullivan County (NY) Community Foundation, serving on the Board of Directors (2002-06), chair of the School District Initiative Committee (2002-06) and a member of the Funds Distribution committee (2002-present).

    Passaic Co. 4-H member 5 years. Program Associate, 1969-78; Passaic/Union Co. 4-H Agent, 1978-89; Regional 4-H Agent, North/Assoc. Dept. Chair, 1989-99. Interim 4-H Department Chair, 1995. NJ 4-H Development Fund Board of Trustees, 1994-99. NJA4-HA President, 1979-81; NAE4-HA President, 1993; Board member, 1984-94.

    Quote

    4-H shaped my life and led to a fulfilling career. Working with the Youth at Risk Initiative was especially rewarding; creating the opportunity to bring 4-H into neighborhoods where life was difficult and involvement welcome. The experience was successful due to the support from 4-H people with whom I worked and the many others who guided and taught me throughout my entire career. It has truly been a privilege to be part of the 4-H movement in this country. There is no end to the rewards and benefits of 4-H.

    My 4-H Story