Elias Espinosa
Extension Agent – Cooperative Extension Program
4-H Youth Development
Email: efespinosa@pvamu.edu
The United States Capitol in Washington, D.C.
Once again, Prairie View Extension demonstrates its commitment to bringing opportunities that promote positive youth development for youth. This year was not an exception. On April 11th, 2025, two youth from Dallas County 4-H joined over 300 talented and motivated high schoolers from across the country, to share their knowledge throughout four full days and nine roundtables of three hours each, with the purpose of presenting creative ideas that would potentially help to solve the different challenges the country faces.
“I didn’t know what to expect when I signed up for the 4-H trip, but I was feeling a mix of nerves and mild curiosity. But from the moment we arrived, I felt something shift. The energy, the excitement, the people… it was all so much more than I imagined” Marco Torres stated. “I met some of the most genuine, kind-hearted people I’ve ever known, and we bonded like we’d known each other for years. Every day brought something new… laughter and fun around the roundtable. We shared adventures, our experiences and perspective; moments that stick with you forever.” Torres, continued. “Looking back, I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. Something I’ll never forget. I really hope we can do this again and meet some more wonderful people. Thank you for this opportunity.” Marco, concluded.
Participation in Roundtable 8 - Smithsonian Institution, Office of the Under Secretary for Education
Marco Torres, Elias Espinosa, and Matthew Torres near the U.S. Capitol
Marco Torres and Matthew Torres at the Reflecting Pool
Marco Torres and Matthew Torres were the youth from Dallas County granted to attend this prestigious event sponsor by National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), a subsidiary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). For four full days, Marco and Matthew joined their respective groups to work together to discuss and compile the proposals in a formal presentation to present to leaders from over 20 federal government agencies.
“Before going to the 4-H trip, I was honestly very nervous and hesitant. I didn’t know many people, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I kept thinking about how awkward it might be or if I’d even fit in. But once I got there, the program made it so easy to feel comfortable.” Matthew, stated. “The activities were well set up to help us connect, and the leaders were super supportive. I started making friends without even realizing it, and soon enough, I was jumping into the tasks with confidence. It ended up being one of the best experiences I’ve had… something I’m glad I didn’t miss out on.” Matthew concluded.
Marco joined the group focused on the National Service from agency AmeriCorps, while Matthew joined the group with emphasis on Empowering Youth in Rural Communities from agency Smithsonian Institution Office Under the Secretary of Education (OUSE).
About Prairie View Extension
Established in 1914, PVAMU Extension (formerly the Cooperative Extension Program) was developed by a partnership of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and land-grant universities. It continues to stand as a dependable community asset in over 56 Texas counties, dedicated to enriching and transforming the fabric of Texas communities. PVAMU Extension provides cutting-edge, research-based information to all Texans in support of our mission to build resilient families, improve farm sustainability, expand small businesses, and empower youth to be leaders now and into the future. The PVAMU Extension’s main priority is taking knowledge gained through unbiased research and education and disseminating it directly to the people to create positive changes. This is accomplished through the work of local Extension agents, also known as Extension educators.
About 4-H Dallas County
Dallas County 4-H, supported by the Texas A&M System, including Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University, is dedicated to partnering with the community. We tailor our programs to meet local needs and aspirations, ensuring impactful and relevant experiences for all involved under four concentrated areas: STEM, Civic Engagement, Healthy Living, and Agriculture &Natural Resources. These programs are available for youth throughout the Metroplex.
About the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
We provide leadership on food, agriculture, natural resources, rural development, nutrition, and related issues based on public policy, the best available science, and effective management.
We have a vision to provide economic opportunity through innovation, helping rural America to thrive; to promote agriculture production that better nourishes Americans while also helping feed others throughout the world; and to preserve our Nation's natural resources through conservation, restored forests, improved watersheds, and healthy private working lands.
About the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)
The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) provides leadership and funding for programs that advance agriculture-related sciences. We invest in and support initiatives that ensure the long-term viability of agriculture. NIFA applies an integrated approach to ensure that groundbreaking discoveries in agriculture-related sciences and technologies reach the people who can put them into practice.
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