May 16, 2025
Welcome, Zaira Ruiz!
We are excited to welcome Zaira Ruiz to the Kansas 4-H Team as our Southwest Regional 4-H Specialist. Zaira started on May 12, and her office is located at the Regional Office in Garden City. Here is a little more about Zaira.
Hi, Kansas 4-H! My name is Zaira Ruiz, and I’m really excited to join you all as the new SW 4-H Specialist. I grew up in SWKS (Liberal), so this role means a lot to me—it feels like coming full circle. I’ve spent the last few years working in youth development, education, and community outreach, and I’m currently finishing my PhD in Sociology. A few things about me: I’m bilingual in English and Spanish, I love anything that has to do with health and wellness, and I’m big on building strong partnerships between schools, families, and communities. I’m looking forward to supporting our local programs and learning from the amazing work you’re already doing across the state. Can’t wait to meet more of you soon!
Welcome, Zaira! We are excited to have you on our team.