Governor General Julie Payette Becomes Patron of 4-H Canada

Ottawa, Ontario – January 4, 2019 – 4-H Canada is pleased to announce that Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, has accepted to become a patron of 4-H Canada.

“This is the first time in the history of 4-H that we have been granted a viceregal patronage,” said David Hovell, Chair of the 4-H Canada Board of Directors. “We are honoured that Her Excellency Julie Payette has generously agreed to serve as 4-H Canada’s Patron.”

A viceregal patronage is a longstanding practice of recognizing exceptional contributions to Canadian society, showcasing excellence and bringing special attention to worthy causes.

“For more than 100 years, 4-H Canada has been one of the most highly respected youth organizations in the country,” said Shannon Benner, CEO of 4-H Canada. “Her Excellency’s Patronage highlights the important connection Canadians have with our organization, its rich history, and our mission of empowering youth to be responsible, caring and contributing leaders.”

Before becoming Governor General, Julie Payette was an astronaut, engineer, scientific broadcaster and corporate director. Her Excellency Julie Payette is best known for her work as an astronaut, flying two missions to space. She also served for many years as CAPCOM (Capsule Communicator) at NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston, Texas, and was Chief Astronaut for the Canadian Space Agency. Her Excellency Julie Payette is well respected for her work in developing policies to promote science and technology.

- 30 -

About 4-H Canada

For over 100 years, 4-H Canada has been one of the most highly respected positive youth development organizations in Canada. 4-H Canada has close to 25,000 members and more than 7,700 volunteer leaders. Our goal is to help young Canadians “Learn To Do By Doing” in a safe, inclusive and fun environment. We believe in nurturing responsible, caring and contributing youth leaders who are committed to positively impacting their communities across Canada and around the world. To learn more about 4-H Canada, please visit 4-h-canada.ca and follow our FacebookTwitter and Instagram pages.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, MEDIA MAY CONTACT:

Jay Poulton
Director, Marketing and Communications
4-H Canada
613-759-1013 ext. 131
jpoulton@4-h-canada.ca