Long-time 4-H educator appointed to Michigan 4-H Foundation board

Abbey Miller<abmiller@msu.edu>, Michigan State University Extension - February 09, 2026

Michelle Neff, of Harrison, was appointed to the Michigan 4-H Foundation board of trustees at its annual membership meeting on Oct. 3, 2025.

Michelle Neff, Montcalm County 4-H alumna and Clare County 4-H educator, was appointed to a three-year term on the Michigan 4-H Foundation board of trustees as the Michigan Council of Extension Associations representative.

Michelle Neff, of Harrison, was appointed to the Michigan 4-H Foundation board of trustees at its annual membership meeting on Oct. 3, 2025. She will serve a three-year term as the Michigan Council of Extension Associations representative on the board, representing Michigan 4-H staff.

A Montcalm County 4-H alumna, Neff has dedicated more than 20 years to helping young people and communities thrive through Michigan 4-H and MSU Extension. She began her Extension career in July 2001 as a 4-H educator and has since built a distinguished career. Neff currently serves as a 4-H educator in Clare County, providing leadership for club development, SPIN clubs and staff and volunteers resources that strengthen local 4-H programs. In addition, she supervises 4-H program coordinators in Clare, Gladwin, Isabella, Mecosta, Missaukee, Osceola and Wexford counties.

Neff’s commitment has earned her numerous honors, including the Michigan Association of Extension 4-H Youth Staff Distinguished Service Award and the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents Distinguished Service Award. A lifelong advocate for youth development and volunteer leadership, Neff credits her 4-H experience with shaping her passion for service and education.

“4-H taught me the value of community, teamwork and lifelong learning,” Neff said. “Those lessons continue to guide me in my work every day.”

Michigan 4-H Foundation trustees volunteer their time to guide foundation policies and operations, and are community advocates for Michigan 4-H.

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