Stacey Keys recently celebrated 10 years with Nebraska Extension, marking a decade of significant contributions to 4-H Youth Development and the youth in northeast Nebraska. A former 4-H member herself, her early experiences shaped her passion for youth programs, which she now uses to inspire the next generation. Keys’ career began in Thurston County in 2014, where she served as office manager and 4-H assistant, driving a 44 percent increase in youth participation.
By 2018, she transitioned to a full-time 4-H assistant, solidifying her impact on the community. In 2022, Keys joined Burt County as a 4-H Assistant Educator, where she leveraged her expertise to achieve a 64 percent growth in youth engagement in her first year, climbing to 79 percent by 2024. A key to her success has been expanding school enrichment and after-school programs to nearly all grades across three local school districts.
Her leadership extends beyond her county. Notable highlights include serving as co-superintendent of the fashion show at the Nebraska State Fair, participating in the Nebraska Cooperative Extension Association and participating on the Dean’s Advisory Council. She has also contributed to state and national programming, including co-developing the Real-World Money program, which has become a statewide resource.
Her dedication has earned numerous awards, including: • Pender FFA chapter Honorary Chapter FFA Degree • National and state awards from the National Association of Extensio.
