College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Faculty & Staff

Leah LaVanway, Charlevoix County MSU Extension 4-H program coordinator, will receive the 2022 CANR Staff Service Award on April 21.

The CANR Staff Service Award recognizes a support staff member exemplifying the CANR mission of Service to Others – serving the people of Michigan, the nation and the world.

Serving as the 4-H program coordinator in Charlevoix County for the last 11 years, Leah LaVanway expertly runs one of the largest 4-H programs in District 14. However, she was nominated for the CANR Staff Service Award because of her service to the 4-H mission, her colleagues and her contributions outside of her normal job duties. Leah is the “go-to” resource for many of her colleagues in the district and beyond.

As one nominator wrote, “When I think of the one staff member who all 4-H coordinators in the district have mentioned as someone they go to for technical advice or mentorship, it is Leah. I regularly receive many positive comments from 4-H volunteers, other 4-H program coordinators about how helpful she has been to them.” 

Within the community, Leah works alongside external stakeholders, including county commissioners, service organizations and the fair board. She is frequently sought out to be a part of collaborations and projects because of her professional reputation. It is not uncommon for her to be a part of at least two statewide committees or task forces at a time; working on everything from curriculum development to developing language placed in the Memorandums of Agreement that Extension District Directors present to county commissions each fall to secure Extension funding. Through her actions and programming, Leah represents the College and Michigan State University at the highest level. 

Leah embodies not only the CANR mission of service to others, but the 4-H motto as well “To make the best better.” She wants to see others excel in their work and better the community around them.