Stephen Censky has a long and eventful career in public service. After a prosperous and extremely active term as the #2 person at USDA, he has returned to a role serving as Executive lead for a not-for-profit trade association supporting American farmers.
Stephen was an active Jackson, MN. 4-Her. Growing up on a soybean and corn farm, he carried out many 4-H projects. He told a national gathering of leaders that 4-H taught him responsibility and inspired him to seek a public service career. His role as a leader started early in life. He was a 4-H officer at all levels, eventually becoming the State 4-H President. After graduation, Stephen served as a Program Assistant at the National 4-H Center. He reflects on his summer in Citizenship Short course program as a very positive and influential time in his life, including meeting the young lady that became his wife.
Mr. Censky received his B.S. in Agriculture from South Dakota State University and his Postgraduate Diploma in Agriculture Science from the University of Melbourne, Australia. He and his wife Carmen have two daughters.
As the Deputy Secretary at USDA:
- Stephen was very active in supporting 4-H. He frequently hosted 4-H staff, members, and leaders for briefings and visits on Capitol Hill.
- He presented the keynote speech to the National 4-H Conference delegates.
- He participated in a “4 for 4” interview session with 4-H Council President and CEO, Jennifer Sirangelo discussing the value of 4-H to a nationwide audience.
- The Deputy Secretary made 4-H aware of grant opportunities that resulted in significant resources for 4-H nationwide.
- He worked diligently to support 4-H, opening doors to other leadership at USDA while informing and educating colleagues about the importance of 4-H.
- He was in a key role to champion NIFA & National 4-H Council’s work, revolutionizing the use of the 4-H name & emblem. Modernizing the guidelines and policies associated with the name and emblem has resulted in new revenue sources for 4-H. The work accomplished on this project during his tenure will have a long-lasting positive impact on 4-H work.
- His leadership supporting National 4-H Council, ECOP, and NIFA played an essential role in launching National 4-H Council’s Opportunity for All campaign.
Censky used 4-H lessons as a foundation for his leadership and service in many roles. He enjoys visiting with young people. He freely gives time from a hectic schedule to advise and listen to young people. His work has made a significant, nationwide, and lasting positive impact on 4-H. Stephen Censky has been a True Hall of Famer for 4-H.
