From being a 4-H member to receiving the Peyton Manning Scholarship, 4-H alumni Cade Simmons says the organization laid the groundwork for his success.
“I’d say 4-H has been the thing I’ve been most involved with, and it’s developed me into who I am today,” says Simmons, 2023-2024 Tennessee 4-H State President.
Originally from Spencer, Tennessee, a town with a population of less than 2,000 people, Simmons says hearing his older brother’s accounts of fun in 4-H was an inspiration to join.
“He told me all the stories of how he was able to help out, represent the program, help youth in creating new development, opportunities for leadership, while also getting to meet some incredible folks,” Simmons says.
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In fourth grade, he joined 4-H through his classroom program and quickly dove into speech contests and demonstrations.
In high school, his involvement expanded by participating in public speaking and leadership projects, trips to Hawaii and Alaska, and multiple officer roles.
His other achievements include winning the state leadership project and serving three terms on the state 4-H council, including as president.
Simmons is Fueled by 4-H
However, Simmons says the relationships he forged with fellow members through community service are what he treasures most.
“At every 4-H event that you attend, there’s always a service project,” he says. “Spending that time with fellow youth who you really enjoy learning from and engaging with makes the experience that much better.”
As his high school membership ended, Simmons set his sights on UT’s Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.
He believes his major in public affairs will guide him in applying his soft skills to solve real-world issues.
“The Baker School is really passionate about this idea of making an impact for the communities of Tennessee and the nation,” he explains. “As someone who always tried to have that community impact in my 4-H work, that message really resonated with me.”
After his acceptance to UT and its exclusive Haslam Leadership Program, Simmons was also selected for the Peyton Manning Scholarship.
Recipients are granted full tuition and a generous housing allowance for four years. The scholarship boasts only 61 recipients over 27 years, according to UTK News.
See more: UTK College Students Continue 4-H Experience
On Aug. 27, 2024, Simmons met and thanked Manning and UT Chancellor Donde Plowman at a reception for the 2024 recipients.
“It was a very blessed experience to be surrounded by so many University of Tennessee at Knoxville leaders and Mr. Manning himself,” Simmons says. “My family was there, and it was an incredible opportunity.”
With a coveted scholarship, numerous achievements and career-ready skills, Simmons says the work has only begun.
He served on the 2024 National 4-H Congress Design Team and as a student assistant to the 4-H Strategic Planning Committee.
After college, he plans to put his education and skills to use in government or nonprofit work.
He hopes his career will show his love for Tennessee, the communities that shaped him and 4-H.
“I’m just very thankful for my 4-H experiences,” Simmons says. “Because of the Tennessee 4-H program and supporters through the Tennessee 4-H Foundation who make it happen through generous giving, I feel like I’m already career-ready.”