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Candace Derbes
Welcome to East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H!
I’m Candace Derbes, your 4-H Extension Agent, and I’m thrilled to kick off a new year where EBR 4-H isn’t just ready—we’re going BEYOND READY… we’re going UNLIMITED!
Before joining the 4-H family, I spent over two decades as a passionate educator, program strategist, and communications professional. My career has spanned special education, community outreach, marketing, and organizational development—always rooted in service and innovation. I’ve had the privilege of designing and leading programs that empower individuals and strengthen communities across Louisiana.
Most recently, I served as an Extension Associate at the LSU AgCenter’s LaHouse Resource and Education Center, where I led the statewide implementation of the HEROES grant. Through this role, I delivered educational initiatives to both youth and adults, built strategic partnerships, and managed complex projects with impact and integrity.
I hold a Master’s in Elementary Education, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from LSU with minors in Marketing and English, and specialized training as an Early Interventionist from Northwestern University.
Though I grew up in Baton Rouge, I’ve called New Roads home for the past 21 years, living on family property that’s close to my heart. Working with students has long been my passion, and I’m excited to continue helping every young person discover their SPARK and be truly BEYOND READY for whatever lies ahead.
Making the best better,
Candace Derbes
Assistant Extension Agent
4-H Youth Development
East Baton Rouge Parish
Olivia Picard
Welcome to East Baton Rouge Parish 4-H!
I’m Olivia Picard, your 4-H Extension Agent, and I’m excited to kick off a year where EBR 4-H is going BEYOND READY…we’re going UNLIMITED! Before joining the EBR team, I spent 11 years as a 4-H Agent in St. Tammany Parish and grew up as an active member—showing livestock, competing, and saying “yes” to just about every 4-H opportunity that came my way. Those experiences showed me how powerful 4-H can be in helping young people discover what excites them, develop their talents, and feel like they truly belong.
In EBR, my focus is on creating a 4-H community where every young person can find their place and their passion. I want our members to feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged—whether they’re trying something for the first time, stepping into leadership, or deepening skills they already love. I believe in the importance of youth connecting with caring adults who can mentor, guide, and cheer them on. And I’m committed to offering programs that reach youth from every corner of our parish—urban, suburban, and rural—so everyone has the chance to get involved.
From livestock shows to STEM challenges, community service to leadership events, there’s something here for everyone. I can’t wait to see the amazing things our members will accomplish this year as we go BEYOND READY together.
Making the best better,
Olivia Picard
Extension Agent
4-H Youth Development
East Baton Rouge Parish
