Meet Brady Jones, a 20-year-old who graduated from high school in 2023. Since then, Brady has embarked on an exciting journey as a full-time touring musician with the Kingsmen Quartet, all while maintaining his status as a full-time student at Western Kentucky University.
A Passion for Music
Brady’s interest in music began during his freshman year, thanks to his involvement with the Kentucky 4-H State Performing Arts Troupe Leadership Board. This early exposure ignited a passion that would shape his future career.
Joining 4-H
Brady joined 4-H at a later age, initially to be part of the performing arts troupe. His involvement quickly expanded to local and regional levels. His county extension agent, Lloyd Saylor, introduced him to the program. Brady’s first 4-H experience was at a teen conference, where he fell in love with the program’s dedication to building young leaders. He remained involved in 4-H from the age of 15 until his graduation.
Staying with 4-H
What kept Brady coming back to 4-H was his passion for leadership and community service. His role on the leadership board fueled his dedication to 4-H, not just as a musician but as a Kentuckian committed to giving back to his state and community. Two influential figures in his 4-H journey were his mentor, Lloyd Saylor, and his peer, Mollie Webb, the Kentucky 4-H State President. Both individuals exemplified the values of dedication and sacrifice for the greater good of the program.
Love for 4-H
Brady appreciates that 4-H is inclusive of all young people, not just those interested in agriculture. The program teaches the importance of agricultural knowledge while fostering general success among youth.
Community and Civic Engagement
Growing up in a tight-knit small community, Brady felt honored and privileged. His community invested in programs like 4-H, which offered valuable opportunities to students. 4-H has had a significant impact on his community, sponsoring beloved events such as concerts, talent showcases, art shows, and parades. The program has built a community of strong leaders and effective communicators.
Workforce Readiness and Communication
The most significant lesson Brady learned from 4-H was the tools of effective communication. These skills have been invaluable in his career as a touring musician, allowing him to connect with audiences and communicate the group’s message effectively.
A Challenge to Young People
Brady challenges young people “to listen to those who have lived full lives. By hearing their stories, wisdom, and experiences, young people can learn valuable life lessons. Many of these lessons may come from 4-H chaperones, event attendees, and peers with diverse experiences.”
Brady Jones’s journey from 4-H to the stage is a testament to the program’s impact on young leaders and the importance of community and effective communication.
Introduction
Meet Brady Jones, a 20-year-old who graduated from high school in 2023. Since then, Brady has embarked on an exciting journey as a full-time touring musician with the Kingsmen Quartet, all while maintaining his status as a full-time student at Western Kentucky University.
A Passion for Music and 4-H
Brady’s interest in music began during his freshman year, thanks to his involvement with the Kentucky 4-H State Performing Arts Troupe Leadership Board. This early exposure ignited a passion that would shape his future career. Brady joined 4-H at a later age, initially to be part of the performing arts troupe. His involvement quickly expanded to local and regional levels. His county extension agent, Lloyd Saylor, introduced him to the program. Brady’s first 4-H experience was at a teen conference, where he fell in love with the program’s dedication to building young leaders. He remained involved in 4-H from the age of 15 until his graduation.
Dedication to Leadership and Community Service
What kept Brady coming back to 4-H was his passion for leadership and community service. His role on the leadership board fueled his dedication to 4-H, not just as a musician but as a Kentuckian committed to giving back to his state and community. Two influential figures in his 4-H journey were his mentor, Lloyd Saylor, and his peer, Mollie Webb, the Kentucky 4-H State President. Both individuals exemplified the values of dedication and sacrifice for the greater good of the program.
Impact of 4-H on Personal and Community Growth
Brady appreciates that 4-H is inclusive of all young people, not just those interested in agriculture. The program teaches the importance of agricultural knowledge while fostering general success among youth. Growing up in a tight-knit small community, Brady felt honored and privileged. His community invested in programs like 4-H, which offered valuable opportunities to students. 4-H has had a significant impact on his community, sponsoring beloved events such as concerts, talent showcases, art shows, and parades. The program has built a community of strong leaders and effective communicators.
Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations
The most significant lesson Brady learned from 4-H was the tools of effective communication. These skills have been invaluable in his career as a touring musician, allowing him to connect with audiences and communicate the group’s message effectively. Brady challenges young people “to listen to those who have lived full lives. By hearing their stories, wisdom, and experiences, young people can learn valuable life lessons. Many of these lessons may come from 4-H chaperones, event attendees, and peers with diverse experiences.”
Brady Jones’s journey from 4-H to the stage is a testament to the program’s impact on young leaders and the importance of community and effective communication.