




As the next generation of agriculturists, we can't wait to see what you do. You show us every day that you are young leaders setting an example, serving communities and reaching goals. Let us help you on that journey to success. Give us a call or visit myfcsfinancial.com to learn more about the opportunities available through our youth support programs.
Officer • Chapter
Andi Belt • North Shelby President
Mikaela Rojas • Linn Co. 1st Vice President
Gavin Rhode • East Buchanan Secretary
Vice Presidents
Annabelle Carlisle • Senath-Hornersville
Gentrie Davis • Marshall
Amelia Hawkins • Ashland
Braden Havlik • Silex
Kennedy Heil • Norborne
Kade Jenkins • Mount Vernon
Matthew Lakey • Ava
Langston Mitchell • Cassville
Alexis Mullins • St. James
Jackson Rhine • Joplin
Emma Robinson • Republic
Madilynn Wehmeyer • Columbia
Carmen Wilburn • Van-Far
State Officer Mentor
Claire Walker
Department of Elementary & Secondary Education P.O. Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102
Phone (573) 751-3544
District Supervisors:
Teresa Briscoe, Lee Crabtree, Marie Davis, Keith Dietzschold, Lisa Evans, David Higgins & Jim Spencer.
Missouri FFA Association
Joann Pipkin, Director of Communications joann.pipkin@missouriffa.org (417) 827-2756
Brandelyn Twellman, Social Media Manager brandelyn.twellman@missouriffa.org
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status, mental or physical disability, or any other basis prohibited by statute in its programs and activities. Inquiries related to department programs and to the location of services, activities, and facilities that are accessible by persons with disabilities may be directed to the Jefferson State Office Building, Director of Civil Rights Compliance and MOA Coordinator (Title VI/Title VII/Title IX/504/ADA/ADAAA/Age Act/GINA/USDA Title VI), 5th Floor, 205 Jefferson Street, P.O. Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480; telephone number 573-526-4757 or TTY 800-735-2966; email civilrights@dese.mo.gov.
Come join a Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter at the college or university of your choice.
EXCELLENT RESOURCES
You’ll have a greenhouse, labs, the latest equipment and 84 sprawling acres at your fingertips.
SO MANY OPTIONS
Whether your interest is in plants, animals or both, the Agriculture Program has you covered.
A GREAT START
Earn your associate degree, then either begin your Ag career or transfer to a four-year college.
State FFA Vice President Braden Havlik met with Orchard Farm FFA members during a chapter visit in September. In addition to taking part in workshops, members worked to build connections, expand their network and apply those skills to future careers.
The 97th National FFA Convention & Expo kicks off Oct. 23-26 in Indianapolis, Ind. Stay up to date on all of the Convention activities at https://convention.ffa.org/. And in the meantime, let’s get packed! Click at right to view the action!
Celebrate EVERY success. Now that you’ve settled into the routine of a new school year, it’s easy to see the day-to-day as just another box to check off a long list. We find ourselves getting caught up in just getting through the day, surviving and moving on. It’s easy to quickly move past the little successes and move right along to the next big thing headed our way. Oftentimes, we don’t realize just how much we have to be thankful for, and we miss out on hidden blessings. Sometimes it’s good to have a little reminder to stop and celebrate the little successes before jumping to the next checkbox on our big to-do list. This was certainly a reminder I needed often throughout high school, and still
do today. I am certainly a competitive person and someone who holds themselves to high standards. Being a bit of a perfectionist at heart, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind and not take the time to appreciate every success. While there’s nothing wrong with having high expectations and constantly working for the next big thing, it’s crucial to appreciate the little things as we go.
Amid all the chaos, when we stop to appreciate the little things life throws our way, we find ourselves having a much better attitude – one filled with gratitude. Whether it’s in the classroom, in your SAE, through FFA or just life in general, my challenge to you is to celebrate every success this year.
No matter how big or small, no matter how hectic you feel life is getting, a lot of good can come from taking the time to celebrate and show gratitude for even the smallest things.
See YOU in Indy!
Andi
Andi Belt State President
The MFA Foundation has awarded more than 15,500 scholarships to students from rural communities where MFA Incorporated and MFA Oil Company and their affiliates conduct business. The foundation also contributes to the Missouri 4-H Foundation, Missouri FFA Association, Missouri Young Farmers Association and other programs consistent with its mission to provide educational opportunity for youth.
Eligible high school seniors can apply for the scholarship online from December 1, 2024 through February 15, 2025.
www.MFAFoundation.com
Dora agricultural education students benefit from hands-on animal science experience with outdoor school lab and farm.
Small but mighty – a perfect description of the Dora agricultural education department’s school farm. Made up of a 1.3-acre pasture, an 18-pen hog and small ruminant show barn, a working corral and an old pole barn, this on-campus lab and working facility houses more than just animals.
“Our school farm is home to handson experiences for students to use shop skills in construction, repair and maintenance,” explains Paula Bodenhamer, Dora agricultural education teacher and FFA advisor. “My students are also using concepts applied to working and medicating livestock. These opportunities give kids an opportunity to reach beyond the paper and pencil and learn by doing.”
In addition to applying classroom lessons in real world scenarios, the school farm provides some students opportunities for a Supervised Agricultural Experience they wouldn’t have otherwise.
“Our school farm allows more kids to participate in showing livestock,
working livestock and soon will help feed our school,” says Chloe Barton, a senior at Dora High School.
Bodenhamer and her students are continuously making improvements and expansions to the farm. In the coming months, the ag ed program will partner with local farmers through the MO Beef Kids program by feeding out calves for the school cafeteria. Students will also learn about opportunities for rotational grazing.
These tangible skills and experiences students walk away with have an impact beyond their agricultural education program.
“I’m learning to try new things,” says Treyton Rogers, a sophomore at Dora high school. “I have raised beef cattle all my life, but I am learning new things at school that I am taking home and sharing with my family. I am interested in rotational grazing systems and am showing that to my dad. I’m also now trying my hand at livestock judging, cattle working and trapshooting because of lessons I’ve learned at the school farm.”
Barnwarming is tradition for FFA chapters all across the state. Whether old or new, the events mark the start of fall and are highly anticipated year-round. The Chillicothe FFA Chapter is no exception, but their barnwarming goes beyond the traditional boot-scootin’ dance.
“Chillicothe Barnwarming is a truly unique and unforgettable event,” explains Cyrsten Sarbaugh, Chillicothe FFA alumni and one of the school’s FFA advisors. “Each grade nominates a male and female candidate for king and queen. To raise money for the FFA chapter, the classes undertake odd jobs, with all funds collected at the start of the dance and then averaged per member of each class. The class with the highest per-member average wins, and their candidates are crowned Barnwarming King and Queen.”
The friendly competition helps build anticipation for the event.
“Witnessing our members’ competitive spirit is a truly enjoyable experience,” Sarbaugh adds. “On the night of barnwarming, our members dance the night away. We teach new line dances during the week, resulting in a packed dance floor.”
A unique hay tunnel, food and games is also part of the festivities. The Chillicothe community has come to love the tradition, as well.
“Barnwarming continually shows our community the values that have been instilled in us, and allows us to give to our community,” says Langsten Johnson, chapter president. “We perform jobs that not everyone is willing to do and do them with a smile on our face. It shows our community that we care, and that’s important because they give so much to FFA.”
Claire Walker, Chillicothe FFA Alumn, agrees that the community benefits from the member support.
“Barnwarming is a chance to give back by helping those who might not be able to complete a task finally do so,” she explains. “I remember members of my class and I going to empty out an old house a week before it was to be sold. The couple said they were so happy to have help as they were worried about the timeline and even their health inhibiting them from completing the project.”
Chapter alumn Madelyn Warren adds, “Whether it was cleaning out a barn, helping with farm chores or doing yard work, it felt like we were making a real impact.
Warren says community members can decide how much they wish to contribute for the students’ work. In the end, the project is more about making connections and providing a service.
“That’s what makes barnwarming so special—it builds a bond between the FFA chapter and the town in a way that’s genuine and lasting,” Warren adds. “As an alumn, I’m proud to have been part of something so unique and rooted in service.”
Views from last year’s event can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=100057406280465
FFA TODAY: Tell us a little about yourself.
CULWELL: I’m a farmer out of Vandalia, Missouri. I went to high school at Van-Far and graduated from the University of Missouri. I met my fiancé, Megan, while at Mizzou and am getting married in February of 2026. When I’m not working, I enjoy getting away and going to Mizzou football games and Cardinals baseball games.
FFA TODAY: Tell us about your involvement in agriculture.
CULWELL: I grew up on a row crop family farm. I have experience custom spraying and I now sell Channel seed.
FFA TODAY: Can you share about your current occupation?
CULWELL: In addition to selling seed, I work as a row crop farmer and do custom spraying of herbicides, pesticides and fungicides. I do all the planting on our farm while working to sell corn, soybeans and treat soybeans.
FFA TODAY: What was your favorite part of FFA?
CULWELL: My favorite part of FFA would be going to different contests and meeting people who I would get to know better in college.
HOMETOWN: Vandalia, MO
FFA CHAPTER: Van-Far
COLLEGE: University of Missouri, Agriculture Systems Management
OCCUPATION: Farmer and Seed Salesman
FFA TODAY: What was the greatest lesson you learned in FFA?
CULWELL: How to meet people at an early age and not be afraid of public speaking.
FFA TODAY: What was your favorite memory from your time in FFA?
CULWELL: My favorite memory was when our FFA chapter went with two other local chapters to Costa Rica.
FFA TODAY: How did FFA impact where you are today?
CULWELL: FFA taught me from an early young adult life how to get to know strangers and carry on a conversation.
FFA TODAY: Who is your biggest influence?
CULWELL: My biggest influence would be my parents. They taught me from a young ae how to work hard for the things you want.
FFA TODAY: What advice do you have for current FFA members?
CULWELL: Don’t be afraid to try new things and meet new people. You never know where those relationships will take you in life.
Missouri FFA members ready to compete, receive top awards at national convention.
Agriscience Fair Finalists
Jaden Decker, Centralia, Div. 3, Animal Systems
Isabel Morris & Lucy Conger, Rolla, Div. 4, Animal Systems
Athena Wilson, Pleasant Hope, Div. 3, Environmental Services & Natural Resource Systems
Brie Dailey, Osceola, Div. 3, Food Products & Processing Systems
Loraine Arciniegas & Maddyson Alexander, Pleasant Hope, Div. 4, Food Products & Processing Systems
Gracie Pulley & Addison Rogers, Pleasant Hope, Div. 4 Power, Structural & Technical Systems
Ellie Samek, Bolivar, Div. 3, Social Systems
Proficiency Award National Finalists
Hayley Gruenewald, Silex, Agricultural Education
Jacob McElhaney, Atlanta, Agriculutural Mechanics Repair & Maintenance
Cade Claycomb, Trenton, Dairy Production Entrepreneurship
Aiden Matthew Plenge, Clark County, Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship
Ava Bullard, Ashland, Diversified Horticulture Entrepreneurship/Placement
Alexis Mullins, St. James, Equine Science, Entrepreneurship
Lauren Hammett, Ashland, Goat Production
Tyler Fenner, Sweet Springs, Grain Production
National Chapter Awards
Osceola — Premier Chapter, Strengthening Agriculture Centralia — Premier Chapter, Strengthening Agriculture
#SpeakAg State Showcase — Centralia
663 American Degree Recipients, #1 in the nation
Morgan Watkins, Fort Osage, National Officer Candidate
For a complete listing of Missouri FFA Highlights at the 97th National FFA Convention, visit https://missouriffa.org/missouri2024-national-convention-highlights/.
Oct 23-26 National FFA Convention, Indianapolis, Ind.
Nov 7-9 State PAS Conference, Crowder College, Neosho
Nov 12 NWMSU SChool of Agricultural Sciences Visit Day, Maryville
Nov 15 United Sportsman League Grant Applications Due
Nov 15 Discover UCM Agriculture, Warrensburg
Nov 15 SAE Grant Online Applications Due
Nov 15 Soy Innovation Challenge Submissions Due
Dec 1 BOAC Grant Applications Due
Dec 4 FFA Swine Facilities Management Contest, Columbia
Dec 8 Missouri Farm Bureau State Speaking Finals, Margaritaville Lake Resort, Osage Beach
Dec 8 Missouri Sheep Producers State Speaking Finals, Margaritaville Lake Resort, Osage Beach
Dec 8 Teach Ag State Speaking Finals, Margaritaville Lake Resort, Osage Beach
Dec 15 2025 Youth Pork Ambassador Program Scholarship Applications Due
Nov 6 South Central District, Rolla
Nov 7 Southeast District, Bloomfield
Nov 8 Southwest District, Aurora
Nov 13 Northwest District, Maryville
Nov 13 Central District, State Fair Community College, Sedalia
Nov 19 Northeast District, South Shelby
No matter how stressful her life is, she always gives us her best. She is the rock of our FFA program, the heart of our school and my biggest inspiration and supporter. Without her, I would not know all of the great things that I do. She is the reason that I want to pursue a degree in ag. I love and appreciate her.
It Starts in the Classroom, the first ever #TeachAg documentary is now streaming!
Are you considering a career in agricultural education? Check out It Starts in the Classroom for an exclusive peek behind the curtain into what the experience will be like if you decide to choose agricultural education as a college major.
The Professional Agricultural Student Organization (PAS) recently hosted the State PAS Leadership Conference at State Technical College of Missouri (State Tech). A select group of students from each participating college (State Fair Community College, Crowder College, North Central Missouri College, Missouri State University-West Plains, State Tech, Ozarks Technical Community College, St. Charles Community College and Three Rivers Community College) traveled to central Missouri for this one-day event. Students toured non-traditional sod and hemp farms
and learned about the industries and career paths that led them to today.
“PAS is a bit like FFA in regards to competitions and the state conference, but many of the competitions have a professional development focus for individuals who will soon be entering the workforce,” explains Nick Rackers, instructor at State Tech. “If you like the competition of FFA, would like to network with others in the state and like to travel and see different types of agriculture in different places, it’s an opportunity to grow professionally.”
Learn more about PAS at https://dese.mo.gov/college-careerreadiness/career-education/agriculturaleducation.
1. What is your favorite genre of music?
a. Pop
b. Country
c. Indie
d. Rock
4. Pick an FFA Chapter event:
2. Pick a trip to take with your ag class:
a. State FFA Convention
b. Farm Tour
c. Corn Maze
a. Escape Room
b. Mud Volleyball
c. Barnwarming
d. Ag Olympics
5. What is your favorite Career Development Event?
d. Ag Business Tours
3. Pick a color:
a. Sky Blue
b. Corn Gold
c. National Blue
d. Red
7. Pick an ag class:
a. Nursery/Landscaping
b. Meats Evaluation
c. Grasslands
d. Farm Management
6. What is your favorite Leadership Development Event?
a. Job Interview
b. Ag Issues
c. Creed Speaking
d. Parliamentary Procedure
a. Greenhouse
b. Shop
c. Animal Science
d. Ag Business
8. Pick an ag career:
a. Ag Communicator
b. Farmer
c. Veterinarian
d. Loan Officer
9. What is your favorite fair food?
a. Cotton Candy
b. Bloomin’ Onion
c. Corn Dog
d. Funnel Cake
10. What drink are you taking on an FFA trip?
a. Iced Latte
b. Sweet Tea
c. Energy Drink
d. Hot Chocolate
If you picked mostly A’s: You’re Spring! You’re outgoing, passionate and don’t shy away from a challenge. You enjoy change and embracing new seasons of life. You’re well-spoken and love to meet new people. You like new beginnings and supporting others along the way. State Convention, contest season, banquets and officer interviews are calling your name!
If you picked mostly B’s: You’re Summer! You’re curious, active and like to get your hands dirty. You enjoy production agriculture and a rural way of life. You’re a busy bee and love to ask questions to learn more. Your energy is contagious. Bring on SAE growth, fair season and any chapter activity that gets you outside in the sun!
If you picked mostly C’s: You’re Fall! You’re spunky, calculated and an animal lover. You’re stuck between liking a fast-paced environment and wanting to slow down and enjoy the little things in life. You’re a free spirit and like connecting with nature. Fall public speaking, Barnwarming and new ag classes are calling your name!
If you picked mostly D’s: You’re Winter! You’re intentional, business-oriented and enjoy a slower pace. You’re constantly looking for ways to improve and challenge yourself. You like working with a team and learning from others. Time with family and friends is also important to you. Bring on winter break, snow day activities and plenty of time spent in preparation for a busy FFA season ahead!
Agricultural education programs across the country are made up of three integrated parts: classroom instruction, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) and leadership (such as FFA). Classroom instruction specifically works to prepare students to be career ready after high school graduation. Schools provide facilities, such as food science labs, greenhouses and agricultural mechanic shops to support everyday classroom learning and many are
used by students to complete their SAEs.
One of the common challenges Missouri faces is a lack of financial resources to build and equip these essential facilities and labs. To help address this need, the Missouri FFA Foundation launched the Horizon and Rising Sun Grant program, allowing Missouri ag ed programs to apply for $10,000-$50,000 in funding for facilities, equipment and other necessities. In the
program’s first year, more than 25 schools across the state have been awarded Horizon and Rising Sun Grants. Through a Rising Sun Grant, the Seneca ag education program (above) remodeled and outfit an existing space to create a food science lab. Since then, students have been studying food preservation by freeze drying candy, making watermelon jerky and canning homemade applesauce and watermelon rind pickles.
You can support agricultural industry skills training. Please consider making a donation to the Missouri FFA Foundation at https://donorbox.org/ moffafoundation.
The Milan ag education program jump started its agricultural mechanics projects with a Rising Sun Grant that helped the school purchase a skid steer and multiple attachments. The grant is helping make possible an operator certification training program as the community has an immediate need for skid steer operators. Students are also learning other skills, including equipment maintenance.
They’ve also hosted meals for their school’s band students and plan to host a food preservation and canning class for their community.
Fredricktown (pictured below) was awarded a Horizon Grant to purchase a new greenhouse and design a plant science laboratory. In the greenhouse’s building phase, students have been learning about the various steps of pouring concrete, installing plumbing, laying out plans, working with architects
and building structures. Once the greenhouse is built, students will begin handson learning in plant systems.
Lathrop used a Rising Sun Grant to equip their food science lab, purchasing counter tops, ovens, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers and other smaller kitchen items. The lab will be used to teach food preservation, nutrition, preparing various meat cuts, and to facilitate conversations about Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP). The lab will help students learn skills to use at home and prepare them for careers in the food industry.
A Rising Sun Grant allowed Ellington (pictured at right), a new ag education program, to purchase a greenhouse, utility shed and vital greenhouse tools. The grant offered them a crucial lead off to their program, which would have taken years to achieve otherwise. The greenhouse will lend hands-on plant science instruction and allow students to gain practical experience in landscaping by doing projects around their school.
One constant around the state, ag education programs are preparing students for the future. Horizon and Rising Sun Grants are a vital resource for expanding instructional opportunities, caring for communities and teaching students vital skills.
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20% of all proceeds go directly back to Missouri through the Missouri FFA Foundation.
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