Wells-Yoakum Named Director Of 4-H

On Thursday, Washington State University Extension announced that Kayla Wells-Yoakum has been selected as the new statewide director of 4-H.  School officials said Wells-Yoakum brings nearly two decades of experience to the 4-H opening and is well positioned to take the program to the next level.

“It’s both humbling and exciting to be entrusted with leading 4-H in Washington,” Wells-Yoakum said. “I’m eager to support 4-H throughout the state and help our program thrive.” 

With involvement from hundreds of volunteers and WSU faculty and staff, Washington 4-H engages more than 30,000 youth annually, 4-H is the largest youth development program in the Evergreen state.

New Director Already Looking To The Future

As the new director, Wells-Yoakum said she envisions a program that strengthens its traditional foundation and adapts to new opportunities.

“I want people to seek us out as partners, volunteers, and leaders,” Wells-Yoakum said. “That means supporting those already in the program, identifying areas for sustainable growth, and building from there.”

Vicki McCracken, associate dean and director of WSU Extension, said Wells-Yoakum’s appointment reflects her unique blend of experience, innovation, and people-first leadership.

“Kayla’s perspective brings fresh insight and adaptability, with a proven ability to build trust, re-engage volunteers, and unify teams,” McCracken said. “She has provided a clear, pragmatic vision for Washington 4-H that is grounded in coalition engagement and resource development. She will be an excellent addition to our Extension leadership team.”

For her part, Wells-Yoakum emphasized the importance of investing in relationships at the local, state, and national levels.

“I value people, and I’m a people person,” she said. “I’ll consider it a job well done when my 4-H colleagues are widely celebrated and recognized for their outstanding work in positive youth development.”