Fayette County 4-H’er Recognized for Excellence in Entomology

Fayette County 4-H is proud to announce that Jovie Ruf, a student at Whitewater High School, placed third in the Entomology project category at the 82nd Annual Georgia 4-H State Congress, held July 22–25 in Atlanta. Competing against top youth from across the state, Jovie presented on Cecropia moths, showcasing her strong research and public speaking skills.

This was Jovie’s first time advancing to State Congress, the state-level culmination of the 4-H Project Achievement program, but she is no stranger to competition. She has participated in District Project Achievement (DPA) for four years, previously competing in both the Entomology and History categories.

Georgia 4-H’s Project Achievement program, run by the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), builds youth development through public speaking, writing, resume building, and interviewing. Over 60,000 youth participate annually. High school competitors research a topic, present before judges, and take part in community engagement activities.

Fayette County 4-H supports DPA participants by covering competition costs, providing camp scholarships, and awarding a Super Senior Award to an outstanding graduating senior.

The next DPA competition will take place March 13–15, 2026, at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. Younger students (grades 4–6) can also participate in Cloverleaf Project Achievement.

To learn more or to get involved, contact the Fayette County Extension Office at 770-305-5412 or email [email protected].

Georgia 4-H is made possible by donors and sponsors including Georgia EMCs, Georgia 4-H Foundation, Harley Langdale Jr. Foundation, and others who support youth development statewide.

Visit www.georgia4h.org for more information.