Karis T. Gutter Appointed to 4-H Board of Trustees
September 12 2024 - 10:39AM
The National 4-H Council Board of Trustees welcomes
Karis
T. Gutter as the newest member of its board. As the current
Head of Government and Industry Affairs for Corteva Agriscience,
Americas, Gutter will bring a wealth of experience in
sustainability, food security and innovation.
“Karis’ extensive background in agriculture and commitment to
public service will enhance our efforts to ignite and inspire the
next generation of leaders,” said Krysta Harden, National 4-H
Council Board Chair and President & CEO of U.S. Dairy Export
Council. “We’re excited to have his talents, leadership and
experience as a Board member.”
A native of Terry, Mississippi, Gutter’s career began with his
service in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. He furthered
his impact through roles in local government with the Hinds County
Board of Supervisors and on Capitol Hill, where he served as Deputy
Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to Congressman Bennie G.
Thompson. Gutter was also a Professional Staff Member for the House
Committee on Homeland Security.
“I am honored to join the 4-H Board and contribute to its vital
mission of preparing youth for their career and life,” said Gutter.
“I look forward to leveraging my experience in agriculture and
public service to support and advance the incredible work being
done to empower young people.”
With a notable career spanning both public service and industry
leadership, prior to Corteva Agriscience, Gutter also served as the
Deputy Undersecretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services
and as the Military Veterans Agricultural Liaison at the U.S.
Department of Agriculture, where he played a crucial role in
agricultural policy and support to providing education to military
veterans and families.
Corteva Agriscience has been a long-standing partner with 4-H
for many years. Through initiatives like the 4-H Pollinator Habitat
partnership, employee volunteer efforts to promote sustainability,
and active board leadership, the organization is committed to the
support of positive youth development locally and
nationally.
About National 4-H Council:4-H, the nation’s largest
youth development organization, grows confident young people who
are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H
programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S.
through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H is the
youth development program of our nation’s Cooperative Extension
System and USDA and serves every county and parish in the U.S.
through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3000
local Extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with
independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries.
The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four
times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times
more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be
civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM
programs.
Learn more about 4‑H at 4-H.org and follow us
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Yolanda Stephen
National 4-H Council
301-961-2863
ystephen@fourhcouncil.edu