What influenced you to join FFA?

My Mother was the one who convinced me to join FFA in middle school. Growing up on a dairy farm in western central Wisconsin and participating in FFA herself, she knew that this would be an amazing opportunity for me. Although I was in FFA in middle school, my true involvement didn’t start until I told my advisor I wanted to participate in a specific opportunity, but she accidentally signed me up for the Fall Leadership Workshop. Although I was hesitant to go, putting on the blue jacket for the first time gave me a new passion and changed the trajectory of my life.

What inspired you to serve as a State Officer?

Besides my first Fall Leadership Workshop, chapter visits always inspired me. There's that famous phrase, “never meet your heroes,” but whenever the State Officers came to pour chapter every year, it was a different story. Having someone you look up to care about what you are doing within your chapter and want to hear your story always enlightened me. This is what gave me the passion to continue that tradition and help members find their passion within the organization. 

What are your favorite FFA experiences?

I always really enjoyed Leadership Development events, or LDEs. Having the opportunity to work on my public speaking skills in a competitive format was an enjoyable but educational experience. Even though I failed during my first event while reciting the creed, it was an experience that taught me the importance of commitment, dedication, and patience. Since then, I have participated in prepared public speaking, job employability, and my favorite- extemporaneous. 

What are your future plans?

I am currently a freshman at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls, studying agricultural business and engineering. After college, I want to first use my bachelor's degree to serve as an officer in the United States Marine Corp. then I want to return to Wisconsin to work for an agricultural business. 

What is something members should know about you?

I never grew up on a traditional farm, yet this organization has always felt like a home to me. One of the biggest things I have learned over my years within FFA is that regardless of your background, knowledge, or experience, there will always be a place in FFA for you too. Whether you want to have a career in agriculture or not, there are countless opportunities within the organization that can help you reach your goals.