Sam Leech, 4-H youth development agent in Albemarle

Sam Leech, 4-H youth development agent in Albemarle County

Sam Leech values the people, variety, and meaningful impact of his role as a 4-H youth development agent in Albemarle County—and he especially loves seeing youth succeed and grow.

From witnessing a record-breaking livestock fair sale to helping students experience travel for the first time, Sam takes pride in expanding opportunities for young people. He believes 4-H is about much more than agriculture—it’s a place where youth explore leadership, STEM, and personal growth—and sees its greatest impact in building the next generation of leaders.

What was your first 4-H project animal?

“My first project animal was a Hereford steer named Copper. My dad brought him home in our minivan from the stockyard because he got a good deal on him! I showed Copper in the Cloverbud division at the county fair. Later, I got into showing sheep and cattle—everything from feeder calves and market steers to breeding heifers and purebreds."

How did you get involved with 4-H?

“I started as a Cloverbud in Highland County 4-H. My dad was the ANR Extension agent for Highland and Bath counties, so I didn’t have much of a choice—but I also wanted to join. My brothers and friends joined too, and we had a great Cloverbud group that did all kinds of projects and trips.”

What does 4-H mean to you, personally and professionally?

“Personally, 4-H gave me so many life skills—public speaking, record keeping, and confidence. It helped me become a better community member. Professionally, I think 4-H is an amazing program for both kids and adults. It gives youth a safe space to learn, grow, and make lifelong friends. Some of my closest friends today are people I met through 4-H—we’ve even been in each other’s weddings.”

What do you enjoy most about your role in Extension?

“Honestly, all of it—the people, the variety, and the impact. I love that every day is different, the variety keeps me creative, and it’s rewarding to know that my work makes a real impact for youth.

For example, at the Rockingham County Fair in 2023, our livestock sale reached one million dollars for the first time ever —about 600 animals total. It was incredible to see the community come together to support those kids. Everyone was so excited; it was a moment I’ll never forget.”

Tell us about another project that made you proud to be a 4-H agent.

“In Tazewell County, we worked with Virginia Tech to take every fourth grader in the county on a one-day field trip to campus. Many of those kids had never left the county before, so seeing their excitement exploring college life was really special.”

Who has been your greatest mentor?

“I’ve had many great mentors. Early in my career, I worked with Nene Estep, who was on my first interview panel — we stayed close until she retired. In the Northern District, Kaci Daniel has been a huge support and friend. Across the state, I’ve been lucky to learn from so many amazing agents who’ve shared their wisdom and kindness.”

What advice would you give a new 4-H agent?

“Work hard and have fun but make sure to find balance. The job takes long hours and weekends, so it’s important to keep time for your own family and yourself.”

What’s one misconception you’d like to clear up about 4-H?

“A big misconception is that 4-H is only for kids in agriculture. That’s not true. There are so many opportunities — from travel and leadership to STEM programs like robotics and engineering. Agriculture is part of it, but 4-H reaches far beyond that. The STEM side gives kids who love science or problem-solving the chance to explore robotics, engineering, and technology — often through hands-on projects that connect back to agriculture or real-world skills.”

How has 4-H changed since you were a kid?

“The world has changed — kids, adults, technology — but 4-H’s core mission hasn’t. We’re still focused on helping youth grow into strong, capable leaders. The delivery methods are different now — more online and project-based — but the purpose is the same.”

What are you most proud of in your career so far?

“Seeing steady growth in every county I’ve served — more youth involved, more programs offered, and more opportunities for kids who might not have had them otherwise.”

Finish this sentence:  4-H is important because…

“It’s building the next generation of leaders!”

- Written by Camden Littleton, field marketing & communications coordinator