The Lynden youth and first-year agricultural student at Kemptville College said he’s “extremely excited” to share all that he has learned by being an active member of Hamilton- Wentworth livestock and lifestyle clubs for the past nine years. “Being a 4-H member has helped me grow as a person,” he said while talking about the benefits of leadership training and learning to take on new responsibilities.

“Basically, the club represents a good way to meet new people,” he added.

Beyond his involvement with the local dairy calf, crop, woodworking and machinery clubs, Betzner has participated in many provincial 4-H activities and has complemented his 4-H leadership training with three years of involvement with the Co-operative Young Leader Program, which offers a one-week summer camp for youths. This summer, he will be one of the facilitators of the program that’s geared toward teaching participants the value of teamwork.

Son of Terry and Joe Betzner and a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, he was one of six Ontario youths chosen two weeks ago to represent the popular ambassador program that was founded five years ago. “I see it as a good opportunity,” he said, adding that his duties will take him to several events across southern Ontario where he will help instill enthusiasm amongst 4-H members and encourage new members and volunteers to take part in club activities.

Betzner, who is taking a two-year program at the Ottawa area agricultural college affiliated with the University of Guelph, is enjoying his post-secondary studies and has thrown himself into college life. He is vice-president of the student council and will serve as president next year. He also plays several intramural sports, including hockey, soccer and badminton.

Next week, he and other students will participate in the College Royal, an annual open house that draws close to 2,000 visitors to the college every March. The week is packed with events such as campus tours, food and nutrition displays, a milking competition, sports events and the Farmers’ Olympics. It also includes a calf sale, which raises funds for the college. Betzner and other students will help sell the livestock donated by area farmers for the event. He said about 35 calves will be up for sale.