In memoriam: Kaci Coppedge Daniel, longtime 4‑H Extension leader

Katherine “Kaci” Coppedge Daniel, unit coordinator and senior Extension agent for 4‑H Youth Development in Orange County, passed away August 7, 2025, after a courageous battle with sarcoma. She was 44.

A dedicated Virginia Tech alumna, Daniel earned a bachelor’s degree in dairy science in 2001 and a master’s degree in career and technical education in 2004.

Her connection to Virginia Tech — and to the 4‑H program — began early. A 4‑H alumna and Virginia 4‑H All Star, she built her career around helping young people grow into leaders.

“Kaci Daniel was exemplary in every aspect of her work,” said John Thompson, director of the northwest district for Virginia Cooperative Extension. “She often said what everyone else was thinking, and did so for the improvement of the youth and her coworkers. I will forever miss her friendship, candid advice, and presence in my life.”

Daniel began her Extension service shortly after college and worked for more than two decades to grow opportunities for youth in her region. She became a senior Extension agent in 2012 and unit coordinator in 2017.

In Orange County, she was a force behind vibrant local programs — overseeing clubs, camps, and school enrichment efforts and coaching youth teams in Food Challenge, Junior Stockman’s and Dairyman’s, and Youth Cattle Working. She helped young people discover confidence through public speaking and hands-on learning. She also played a leading role in events such as the Orange County Fair and the Therapeutic Adventure Camp of Orange. 

Beyond her work, Daniel cherished life in Madison County and the Blue Ridge Mountains. She loved traveling with her husband, Scott, and spending time with family, especially her nieces, nephews, and her cousins’ children. Her proudest moments often came from working with former 4‑H participants who returned as adult volunteers, continuing the cycle of mentorship and growth.

"Kaci's caring and conviction in doing things the right way influenced so many people," said Scott Daniel, Kaci's husband. "Helping kids see and reach their potential were achievements that brought some of her greatest happiness."

In honor of her commitment to youth development, friends and colleagues have established the Katherine “Kaci” Daniel Building to Endowment Fund to support 4‑H programming in Madison and Orange counties. Contributions can be made to the Virginia Tech Foundation, designated to the Katherine “Kaci” Daniel 4‑H BTE Fund 879177.

Daniel’s legacy lives on in the thousands of young people she inspired, mentored, and believed in. As she once said, “4‑H has my heart; it made me who I am.”