4-H Key Award Recipients

The Wisconsin 4-H Key Award Program recognized a select group of 4-H participants who have demonstrated consistent growth in their 4-H involvement, developed and applied their leadership skills and actively participated in the functions of their 4-H club and community. It is the highest award given by Ozaukee County 4-H.

2025 Wisconsin 4-H Key Award Recipients

Rebecca Gierach

Rebecca Gierach is a 12-year member of the Lindenwood 4-H Club and a third-generation 4-Her. Rebecca lives the 4-H motto every day. She’s held multiple club offices and stepped aside at times so others could lead—always putting the good of the group first. She’s a Youth Leader in multiple projects, including Dogs, Crocheting, and Wood burning, and she took charge of “Meet the 4-H Animals” at the county fair, bringing it back after a pandemic pause. Her energy and planning were also on full display as an Adventure Camp counselor and Youth Director. Rebecca is thoughtful, organized, and always willing to take on a challenge, whether she’s modeling handmade clothing or coaching younger members with patience and care. As Miss Ozaukee 4-H, she continues to be a powerful ambassador for our program.

Outside of 4-H, Rebecca just completed her 12th grade year at Rolling Meadow Lutheran High School. While in high school, she was a church choir member, theatre actress, and helped serve at her church picnic and fundraising auction. Rebecca has been working on her dog training certificate this summer and will head to Concordia University this fall to study psychology and earn a compassionate care certificate, specifically for the comfort dog program.
It is clear that Rebecca has blossomed through her active involvement in the Ozaukee County 4-H program. Congratulations!

A message from Rebecca: Thank you for selecting me for the 4-H Key Award. It is an honor to be recognized for my involvement in 4-H. Time has gone by quickly and I will cherish the memories. The dedication of many leaders has given me many opportunities to explore. I want to thank Mrs. Boehlke, Mrs. Brzezinski, the Hellers, and the Kringles for hours of leadership, being there for me at club, county, camp and beyond. Many more leaders were instrumental in making me a well-rounded individual, offering me so many experiences I couldn’t have imagined growing up without them. Thank you also to the leaders board, 4-H Foundation and our extension agents who work hard to make this program have a positive impact on the youth of Ozaukee County. Finally, I want to thank my parents and family for their support and taking this 4-H journey with me.

Alaina Jarmuz

Alaina Jarmuz is a ten-year 4-H member who is a part of the Cloverleaf 4-H Club.
Alaina’s 4-H journey began in the Exploring project and grew to include Horse, Clothing, Photography, Scrapbooking, and Art. She’s a decorated equestrian, but it’s her leadership and willingness to support others that truly stand out. Whether she’s mentoring younger members, leading club meetings as President, or lending a hand at the Clover Café, Alaina brings maturity, dependability, and a spirit of service. From sewing creative outfits for the Clothing Revue to bringing history to life on the American Spirit Trip, Alaina has embraced 4-H with purpose and pride.

Outside of 4-H, Alaina just completed her 12th grade year at Grafton High School. While in high school, she was actively involved on the gymnastics team and even represented her school at the state level. Alaina will attend the University of St. Thomas and plans on studying nursing.
It is evident that Alaina has grown tremendously as a youth in the Ozaukee County 4-H program and has done a wonderful job showcasing her love for 4-H. Congratulations!

A message from Alaina: I am deeply honored to receive the Key Award today. After nine years in 4-H, achieving its highest honor is truly a blessing. However, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities 4-H has provided me over the years. Reflecting on my time with the Cloverleaf club, I remember starting as a shy and somewhat hesitant member. It’s funny to think back to those early days when I was just a first year member. Over time, I grew more confident and eager to take on new challenges and try new things. As I was involved in the horse project, it taught me how to care for someone other than myself. Being a Youth Leader has truly showed me how important it is to me to give back to others to help build experiences for them like I had. From serving as treasurer, where I learned the importance of managing finances and keeping accurate records, to vice president, where I began learning my organizational and teamwork skills, each role prepared me for the ultimate opportunity as serving as president. Leading the Cloverleaf Club was an incredible experience. It taught me the importance of collaboration, communication, and the ability to inspire others. I learned how to run effective meetings, plan engaging activities, and make an incredible experience for the other members that I was so grateful to be apart of. I am so thankful for the friendships I have made and the leadership skills I will carry forward. I will forever cherish the memories made as part of this club. As I’ve started a new chapter of my life away at college and am currently at cheer team practice at the University of St. Thomas, I apologize for not being there in person. Thank you again.

Cori Milam

Cori Milam is a 10 year member from the Covered Bridge 4-H Club. Cori’s growth through 4-H has been remarkable—from a new member learning the ropes to a confident leader who serves as a role model for others. She held nearly every club office, served as a youth leader in the sheep and rabbit projects, and played an active role in county events like the Clover Café, the 4-H Haunt, and the American Spirit Trip. Cori was also crowned Miss Ozaukee County 4-H this past year, using her platform to expand awareness about the diversity of 4-H opportunities. Whether she’s organizing events, mentoring younger youth, or helping volunteer at various events, Cori leads with kindness, reliability, and heart.

Outside of 4-H, Cori just completed her 12th grade year at Cedarburg High School. While in high school, she was very involved with sports and the Best Buddies program. Cori will attend the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and study animal science on a pre-vet track.
Cori has shown growth and achievement as a youth in the Ozaukee County 4-H program and has done a fantastic job showcasing her passion for 4-H. Congratulations!

A message from Cori: If there’s one thing I can say about 4-H, it’s that it has provided me with countless opportunities to grow and face new challenges. Over the past 10 years as a member of the Covered Bridge 4-H Club, I’ve experienced so many meaningful moments. I’d like to highlight three of my favorites. The first is camp. Each summer, I eagerly looked forward to it. It was a time to make crafts, sing songs, and connect with others. It taught me the value of teamwork, the importance of building strong relationships, and how shared experiences can bring people together. These memories are some I will cherish for the rest of my life. The second memory is the American Spirit trip. This 10 day trip was something I never thought I would have the chance to do. Traveling throughout New England and Canada was truly unforgettable. It opened my eyes to diverse cultures, and the importance of leadership. This trip provided an opportunity for personal growth by challenging me to step outside my comfort zone, engage with new people, and experience activities I never imagined myself doing. Third, I had the honor of being elected Miss Ozaukee 2024. This experience challenged me in new and unexpected ways, requiring me to step into unfamiliar territory and adapt quickly. As a result, I experienced tremendous personal growth, specifically in my confidence and abilities as a public speaker. This journey would not have been possible without the support of many individuals that have made my past 10 years enjoyable. Although there have been many, I would like to take the time to recognize a few individuals who have shaped me into who I am today. First, Ms. Karolczek has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Her influence has been incredibly meaningful to me. Second, Mr. Boehlke has taught me the value of passion. His unwavering dedication over the past 50 years to helping others is something I deeply admire. Finally, my parents, my greatest supporters, they’ve taught me the importance of effort. Effort is the driving force behind learning, developing skills, and reaching goals because it pushes us to overcome challenges, stay persistent, and continuously improve. Thanks to the dedication of the people around, and the valuable memories I’ve made over the years. 4-H has played a key role in shaping who I am today. I’m forever grateful for the time I’ve spent in this organization, and I hope to one day give back to my community in the same way these individuals have inspired me.

Previous Wisconsin 4-H Key Award Recipients

2024- Abigail Poull
2023- Katelyn Depies
2023- Timothy Gierach
2023- Maria Lee
2023- Lydia Loupee
2022- Abigail Garvey
2022- Amy Jentges
2022- Jacob Peacy
2021- Devin Curran
2021- Caleb Gierach
2021- Jennifer Poull
2021- Katelyn Poull
2021- Emilee Thiede
2020- Rebecca Dowe
2020- Philip Paulus
2019- Olivia Aschebrook
2019- Natalie Batzko
2019- Anastasia Poull
2019- Joshua Riemer
2019- Megan Zaczyk
2018- Christopher Mueller
2018 – Mackenzie Neumann
2018 – Alaina Knier
2017 – Jessica Schoessow
2017 – Kevin Gierach
2017 – Sarah Riemer
2016 – Alycia Kringel
2016 – Gabby Gventer
2016 – Gabbie Batzko
2016 – Virginia Lee
2015 – Patrick Curran
2015 – Rachel Gierach
2015 – Sarah Kiskunas
2015 – Melinda Knepprath
2014 – Heather Hamm
2014 – Joseph Montaine
2014 – Connor Newell
2013 – Keith Gierach
2013 – Andrea Lynaugh
2013 – Robert Fugate