A Person You Should Know
Week four of the "Person You Should Know" series features Marshall County's 4-H youth development educator, Kelsey Sajdera.
Family: I am originally from Merrillville in Lake County. I lived with my parents, Ron and Debbie, before moving to Marshall County. I have two older sisters, Angela and Tiffany, both of whom are married. I have a Beagle named Rizzo and two horses, Pete and Gunner.
My Job: I work for Purdue University in Extension education. My title is the 4-H youth development educator. I get to work with youth to help them develop leadership and life skills. My mission is "to provide real life educational opportunities that develop young people who will have a positive impact in their communities and world." This is accomplished through informal education, hands-on activities and workshops.
My mentor: I cannot pick one person that has been a mentor to me, as I have a large support system of people. I rely heavily on my program assistant, Angie Smith, and my secretary, Jessica Kaiser. Robert Kelly and Julie Jones are fellow educators that have been assigned to me as mentors, and their guidance has been extremely helpful as well. My family supports me and will give advice when I ask. It has been a great journey and I have already learned so much!
Favorite thing about your job/position: I truly enjoy working with the youth in Marshall County. They have so much energy and excitement about whatever it is they are doing, and it makes me excited to see each one of them grow in their own way.
Life Motto/Quote: "Never limit your challenges, challenge your limits."
Hobbies: I own and show horses competitively. That takes up the majority of my time outside of work, as I love to travel and compete wherever I can.
To nominate someone for this column, call or email Jerry Goshert (jerry@farmers-exchange.net, or courtney@farmers-exchange.net), associate editor. The telephone number for both editors is 574/831-2138.