Following a competitive national search, Washington State University Extension has appointed Kayla Wells-Yoakum as the new statewide director of 4-H, Washington’s largest youth development program.
With nearly two decades of WSU Extension experience and a proven record of effective leadership, Wells-Yoakum will guide Washington’s 4-H program into its next chapter of growth and positive youth impacts.
“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, including 10,000 enrolled members in over 140 projects centered on STEM, agriculture, civic engagement, and more.
Through county fairs, community service projects, and statewide events, participants gain practical skills such as public speaking, animal care, and project management, while also building confidence, responsibility, and lifelong connections.
As the new director, Wells-Yoakum 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.”
For Wells-Yoakum, the appointment carries personal as well as professional meaning. Her great-grandfather is a member of the 4-H Hall of Fame in Lincoln County, and her mother used her 4-H and FFA project money to help pay for college.
“Professionally, this role represents incredible career growth,” she said. “In my time with WSU Extension I’ve led programs, managed grants, and built relationships across the state. These experiences will help me be successful in this new role.”
Wells-Yoakum began her WSU career as an Extension coordinator with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, then became a faculty member and later Extension county director in Okanogan County, where she supervised 4-H programming for eight years. Her background also includes serving as co-principal investigator on major statewide initiatives, including broadband expansion and coastal resiliency projects, where she gained experience in project management and coalition-building.
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.”
About WSU Extension 4-H
WSU Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program is the largest youth development program in Washington, engaging tens of thousands of young people each year in hands-on projects, leadership training, and community service. Supported by families, volunteers, and community partners, 4-H helps youth build confidence, develop skills, and prepare for lifelong success.