The Missouri State Fair wrapped up last weekend in Sedalia, and Mizzou was proud to have been in the center of the fun. Each day at Mizzou Central and across the fairgrounds, MU students, faculty and staff shared the transformative research, teaching and engagement of our 13 schools and colleges with thousands of attendees. 

We also helped highlight the skill and hands-on learning of students in Missouri 4-H, one of many impactful MU Extension programs. Among the talented 4-H exhibitors was Julianna Gardner, a 17-year-old active in the Moniteau County 4-H club who has been quilting since second grade. Julianna showed two quilts, including one with an elaborate Mizzou theme. Julianna spent over 60 hours on the quilt and its detailed paw print-shaped stitching. Her quilt is so impressive that we are working with Julianna and her family to display it on campus. 

Julianna’s work is part of 76 quilting projects featured in the 4-H Building, along with 3,611 submissions across a range of areas, including science & technology, livestock, baked goods, woodworking and so much more. Altogether, more than 3,200 4-H youth from 8 to 18 submitted displays. Congratulations to Julianna and all who shared their hard work! 

From hands-on experience with 4-H to providing lifesaving radioisotopes from our research reactor (MURR), Mizzou has a direct impact on the lives of Missourians. We are proud to support opportunity, creativity and excellence at the State Fair and throughout the year in each Missouri community. 

— Mun