New Jersey 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors Ring the NASDAQ Opening Bell

Written by Melissa Bright, Somerset County NJ 4-H Agent

On December 15, 2025, the New Jersey 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors Lead to Change Project grant winners, Sam, Sawyer, Julie, Maddy, and Megan, joined Tractor Supply Company and National 4-H Council at the NASDAQ opening bell-ringing ceremony in Times Square, New York City. This momentous occasion celebrated the long-standing partnership between Tractor Supply Company and 4-H and highlighted their shared commitment to investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.

For more than 85 years, Tractor Supply Company has proudly served recreational farmers, ranchers, gardeners, pet owners, and individuals who value an outdoor lifestyle. The company is widely recognized for its dedication to supporting rural communities and strengthening the farming and agricultural way of life.

In celebration of an extraordinary partnership now spanning 15 years, Tractor Supply Company and 4-H have worked together to champion youth development through agricultural education. Through initiatives such as the Paper Clover Campaign, this partnership has raised more than $25 million nationally to support 4-H programs, positively impacting millions of young people across the country. Together, Tractor Supply Company and 4-H continue to invest in youth, ensuring strong communities today and into the future.

During the event, the New Jersey 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors joined fellow 4-H youth from New York, Connecticut, and Kentucky. They had the unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, including John Ordus, Executive Vice President and Chief Stores Officer of Tractor Supply Company; Jill Bramble, President and CEO of National 4-H Council; Taylor Thigpen, National 4-H Council Board Member; and many other distinguished guests. The Ambassadors engaged in meaningful conversations focused on agricultural business, leadership, community engagement, and the importance of investing in young people.

The experience also included a guided tour of the NASDAQ, where the Ambassadors learned about the stock market, investments, and the role of financial literacy in today’s economy. The celebration continued in Times Square, where the Ambassadors proudly saw their photo displayed on the iconic NASDAQ billboard as an unforgettable moment recognizing youth leadership on a national stage.

The New Jersey 4-H Agriculture Ambassadors Program was established in 2024 by Somerset County 4-H Agent Melissa Bright and 4-H Program Coordinator Kristine Rappaport. The initiative was designed to empower Somerset County 4-H teen leaders to increase agricultural awareness within their communities while exploring a wide range of agricultural career pathways. Originally launched with 15 teen leaders, the program enables youth in grades 9–13 to plan, manage, and deliver hands-on educational workshops that highlight agricultural careers and their impact on everyday life.

In 2025, the program experienced significant growth, expanding to 25 youth participants and becoming a statewide initiative serving communities across New Jersey. This expansion reflects the program’s success and the growing demand for youth-led agricultural education and leadership development.

An investment in youth is an investment in the communities we serve. Through 4-H’s bold 20/30 goal to reach 10 million youth by 2030, the Beyond Ready initiative ensures young people are equipped with the skills, confidence, and leadership needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Events like the NASDAQ opening bell ceremony exemplify the power of partnerships and the lasting impact of supporting youth development.

Submitted by Melissa Bright, Somerset County 4-H Agent

Link to the Bell-ringing Ceremony Recording: https://www.nasdaq.com/videos/tractor-supply-company-and-4-h-ring-nasdaq-stock-market-opening-bell