By Andi Anderson
Cathy Fry of Isabella County has been recognized as one of five recipients of the Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB) 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award for 2026.
The award honors exceptional 4-H volunteers who have demonstrated excellence in youth education, agricultural learning, and leadership development across a variety of agriculture-related project areas.
For the past 28 years, Fry has dedicated her time and energy to helping young people discover the opportunities available through agriculture. As the leader of the Isabella County Dairy Dreamers 4-H Club, she has created educational experiences that strengthen agricultural knowledge, leadership abilities, and personal confidence among youth participants.
Known as a passionate dairy educator and mentor, Fry has connected countless young people with real-world agricultural experiences. One of her most popular initiatives is the annual Moo Madness event, hosted at her farm.
The program gives youth and families a firsthand look at dairy production, animal care, farm management, and the important role agriculture plays in everyday life.
Fry also developed the 4-H in Agriculture Learning Series, which introduces participants to a wide range of agricultural topics.
The program covers livestock nutrition, crop production, pollination, and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of farming. Through these hands-on experiences, youth gain practical knowledge while exploring potential careers within the agriculture industry.
Reflecting on her years of volunteer service, Fry said, “My greatest reward is watching my 4-H’ers grow in confidence, make new friends, and continuing to share with younger members what they have learned.”
Beyond agricultural education, Fry is deeply committed to positive youth development. She encourages young people to take leadership roles, educate others about agriculture, and actively participate in community service activities. Under her guidance, club members have contributed to disaster relief efforts, organized local service projects, and served as ambassadors for both agriculture and 4-H programs.
Fry has also earned recognition for developing successful youth competitors and future agricultural leaders. Her coaching of dairy management teams has helped Michigan youth achieve outstanding results at both state and national levels, including national championships and top individual honors in dairy science competitions.
While competitive success is an important achievement, Fry’s greatest impact has been helping young people develop essential life skills. Through her mentorship, participants gain valuable experience in communication, critical thinking, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These skills prepare them for future success in agriculture and many other professions.
The MFB 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Award is presented through a partnership among Michigan State University Extension, Michigan 4-H, and the Michigan Farm Bureau. Each recipient receives a $1,000 grant through the Michigan Farm Bureau 4-H Excellence in Agriculture Endowment at the Michigan 4-H Foundation. The funds support agricultural programs, volunteer development, educational resources, and local 4-H initiatives.
Award recipients will also receive a personalized recognition memento and be honored during the Michigan 4-H Legacy Awards Celebration on October 3 in Lansing.
Other 2026 recipients of the award include Erica Drake of Washtenaw County, Melissa Gordon of Monroe County, Bryan Shirk of Branch County, and Michelle Short of Macomb County.
Through nearly three decades of service, Cathy Fry has helped shape the future of Michigan agriculture by inspiring young people to learn, lead, and serve. Her dedication continues to leave a lasting impact on Isabella County 4-H, Michigan youth, and the agricultural community as a whole.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-katie-ellement
Categories: Michigan, Education, General, Rural Lifestyle