Waukesha County 4-H educator James Boling, Jr. was recently awarded the Sally Jo Michalko Lifetime Excellence in Education Award by the Waukesha Education Foundation, Inc. in March.
“My inspiration behind what I do is wanting to make sure that we provide youth, young adults and students the opportunity to be successful and having them see all of the options available,” Boling said
Boling has spent 38 years working for the Universities of Wisconsin and providing services to students of all ages and families in Waukesha School District. In this partnership, Boling works as the Youth and Family Educator for Waukesha County Extension. He helps enhance the quality of educational opportunities for students and connects the dots between the services of Extension and the school district.
During his career, Boling has consistently helped students discover their potential, saying that “every young person deserves a chance to find their spark,” a passion that interests and excites students about their future. He has facilitated programs like the UW Precollege program, Emerging Leaders, afterschool 4-H programs and the Waukesha North Black Student Union and Waukesha South Latino Student Union.
“To reach their future goals, I think putting youth in positions where they can grow personally, professionally and have different experiences allows them to be more aware of the options available,” Boling said.
He has put them in these positions with experiences like college tours, workshops, guest speakers, and hands-on activities in STEM, nutrition and opportunities to help young people grow and see many different pathways to their futures. Boling also creates positive and safe environments that connect students with caring adults.
During his career, Boling has observed that “as our society and world changes, our needs to address students has changed as well. I do believe that it’s not only academically students need to be prepared — it’s mentally, it’s socially.” Through his programs and work with 4-H, he has helped students grow in all of these areas.
Boling said he hopes to leave a legacy in the Waukesha community as someone who supported students and who always wanted the “very very best for them.” He hopes that students will see the work we’re providing them at some point in their life.