Pennsylvania Teen Wins National 4-H Youth in Action Award and $5K Scholarship

With more than 50 STEM learning activities, Suchindra has reached more than 3,000 students globally to help foster a new generation of STEM enthusiasts.

"It's been so rewarding to see more young people get interested in STEM and connect it to their own lives through Kids Connect workshops," he said. "It all started because of the opportunities 4-H gave me, both to learn about STEM and to grow as a leader."

For more than nine years, Suchindra has thrived in 4-H, transforming from a shy 8-year-old into a leader and passionate advocate for STEM education, his Penn State Extension educators noted.

"I am so proud of Ronak and the young leader he has become," said Toni Stuetz, 4-H extension educator in Chester County. "Watching him grow from an 8-year-old interested in a day camp to being the outstanding young leader that he has become has been a joy and a testament to the 4-H program."

Suchindra said his spark came during a 4-H scratch workshop where he solved a coding problem and led his peers to the solution. This pivotal moment gave him confidence and a newfound love for STEM, propelling him to state and national successes in competitive robotics and earning prestigious awards such as the 4-H Diamond Clover, the highest achievement possible in the Pennsylvania 4-H program.

"He is a mentor to our robotics team and helps lead several day camps each year sharing his STEM knowledge and passion with other youth," Stuetz said. "He is an inspiration to other youth in Chester County and a role model for many."

Suchindra's commitment to service and education shows in his efforts to organize charity events and other STEM workshops in his community. In college, he plans to study business and engineering, eventually using his experience and passion for STEM to launch a startup. 

"Whenever I think of Pennsylvania 4-H STEM projects, Ronak immediately comes to mind," said Joshua Rice, Penn State Extension assistant director for 4-H youth development programs. "Since joining 4-H, he has sparked enthusiasm in other young people to engage with STEM activities, explore new concepts and seize opportunities. Ronak is not just a leader; he is someone who genuinely cares for and inspires those around him."

Echoing this sentiment, Jill Bramble, president and CEO of the National 4-H Council, highlighted the broader impact of Suchindra's contributions.

"STEM education is an invaluable asset for future generations," she said. "To have bright minds like Ronak contributing and preparing the next wave of STEM leaders is inspiring and a true embodiment of our mission at 4-H."

Launched in 2010, the 4-H Youth in Action Awards recognize 4-H'ers who have applied the knowledge gained in 4-H to create a lasting impact in their communities. In addition to receiving a $5,000 scholarship, Suchindra and the other winners will spend 2025 showcasing their work nationally, networking with prominent 4-H alumni, and sharing their stories as official 4-H spokespeople. This year's other winners are Katelyn (Katie) Culbert of Toms River, New Jersey; Kaycie Hollrah of St. Charles, Missouri; and Kingston Ryals of Vidalia, Georgia. More information about Youth in Action is available online.

Administered in Pennsylvania by Penn State Extension, 4-H is a nonformal educational youth development program of the cooperative extension system and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that helps young people develop knowledge and skills to become capable, caring, and contributing citizens. To find your local program, visit the Pennsylvania 4-H website.

4-H, the nation's largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for careers tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills. 4-H serves every county and parish in the U.S. through a network of 110 public universities and more than 3,000 local extension offices. Globally, 4-H collaborates with independent programs to empower one million youth in 50 countries. The research-backed 4-H experience grows young people who are four times more likely to contribute to their communities and twice as likely to make healthier choices, be civically active, and engage in STEM programs.