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Ty Hebert, 4-H alumni from Vermilion Parish in 2022, is truly an example of how a traditional 4-H project can have an extraordinary outcome. From being an infant toted along to his sisters’ livestock shows to planning a college career majoring in agricultural economics, agriculture has always been a part of his life.
4-H was a family tradition. My two older sisters were involved in livestock projects as well as my parents and grandparents. They all showed Brahman cattle. I grew up on a family cow-calf Brahman operation with a passion for livestock. 4-H was a way for me to home in on that passion. I started showing at nine years old and was eager to participate in the family tradition.
After 10 years in the 4-H program, what is your biggest piece of advice for younger members?
I encourage 4-H members to take every opportunity and event granted to you. Each one has a purpose and can help to develop your skills and knowledge.
Coming from a livestock background, the work ethic, time management and leadership skills gained is something I will carry with me throughout my life. Overall, the livestock project has aided me in developing a multitude of leadership skills rooted in the task of caring for a living, breathing thing other than yourself.
My experience as the first Louisiana 4-H member to be a State Livestock Ambassador gave me the space to create a vision to take the next step in my leadership development and run for state 4-H president. That opportunity gave me the courage and confidence I needed to step out of my comfort zone.
I did not expect to learn so much about ethics through my livestock project. I use those same moral and ethical codes with the people in my life. Livestock projects help students to develop an appreciation for ethical considerations at a young age regarding what is wrong and right. I learned how to stay true to myself and make a decision on behalf of someone or something else.
Ty Hebert’s family traditionally exhibited Brahman cattle, but as a senior in high school, Ty was determined to try his hand at the swine project. He credits his past 4-H experiences for encouraging him to continue to seek challenges. Provided photo.
LSU AgCenter 4-H and FFA State Show.
Brahmans.
Cleaning pig pens.
Shaving my head with sheep shears at the parish livestock show to raise money for the program.
Carrot fritters from Mrs. Nickie Leger and Mr. Chris Herpin’s jambalaya.
The confidence I feel in the cumulative moment of walking into the show ring, knowing I prepared myself to my fullest capabilities.
Blue pin stripe with dark, starched jeans. Don’t forget the handkerchief in my back, right pocket!
