March 31, 2026 - 10:39am -- zmarzly.1@osu.edu

 Ava holding award

Ava Burrows has won the 4-H Innovator Award. She has become a driving force behind the rapid growth of quail projects in Cuyahoga County, using her enthusiasm and knowledge to spark new interest in a once rare project area. After purchasing her first five quail at the county fair, she immersed herself in learning and quickly built The Cluckity Homestead, a thriving youth run agricultural business. Within a year, she completed industry training, hatched her first quail, earned features in national and local publications, and secured NPIP and Small Egg Producer certifications, allowing her to sell eggs commercially. She established her LLC, began selling products in local stores, and earned recognition from the American Coturnix Breeders Association. Equally committed to education, Ava regularly hosts learning tables at 4-H events, farmers markets, and community programs, inspiring other youth to explore quail projects with her patient clear guidance. Her leadership has directly contributed to rising participation in both market and egg production projects, and she now serves as a Cuyahoga County Sr. Leader and Junior Fair Board member. Ava’s creativity, initiative, and commitment to uplifting others make her a standout example of 4-H innovation.

Winner and mom and dad

Jaina Cormack, member of the Olmsted Hayburners, has been selected as 1 of 5 Ohio 4-H members for the prestigious National 4-H Roth Scholars Program. The National 4-H Roth Scholars Program recognizes outstanding 4-H members who demonstrate exceptional leadership, community involvement, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to personal growth. Ohio’s nominees represent the very best of 4-H youth development across the state. Throughout her time in 4-H, Jaina has been actively involved in a variety of projects and leadership opportunities. She has shown dedication not only to her own growth but also to serving her community and mentoring younger members. Her commitment to responsibility,

teamwork, and excellence reflects the core values of 4-H: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Jaina is passionate about developing her leadership skills and preparing for future educational goals, including pursuing higher education in veterinary medicine. The Roth Scholars Program provides selected students with scholarship opportunities, leadership development experiences, and national recognition. Being nominated at the state level is a significant honor and highlights Jaina’s hard work and dedication to our 4-H community. Participants receive stipends to support research projects that address community challenges. The culmination of the program will see the Roth Scholars implement the lessons learned in the cohort to drive research-based community impact. At the end of her two year commitment, Jaina has the opportunity to earn a scholarship of up to $5000!

Congratulations, Jaina! We can’t wait to see your work over the next couple years!