Spring Newsletter 2023 | Ohio FFA Foundation

Ten students hired, Ohio FFA Works program announced

1 in 8 jobs in Ohio are related to agriculture. Through both existing and new programs, the Ohio FFA Foundation will continue to connect graduating members with agricultural career opportunities.

During the first session of the 95th Ohio FFA Convention, ten students were recognized for joining the workforce after graduation through the RISE FFA Career Program.

The ten students gaining full-time employment at Sunrise Cooperative are Antonio Lucio, Clyde; Zoe Gifford, Firelands; Bryce Parsons, Hillsboro; Megan Kimbler, Indian Lake-OHP; Luke Brunke, Miami EastMVCTC; Troy Homan, New Bremen; Grace Montgomery, New London; Gage Lauderman, South Central; Derick Murray, South Central; and Abraham Decker, Upper Scioto Valley-OHP.

In addition to his new full-time position, Parsons was announced as the overall signing bonus recipient

and will receive the Jeep truck that the 2022-2023 Ohio FFA State President drove during her tenure.

Also, with Parsons’ selection as the truck signing bonus recipient, the Hillsboro FFA Chapter will receive $1,000 to help continue their ag education endeavors. The remaining nine new hires’ chapters will each receive $250 grants per new hire to enhance their local programs as well.

The RISE FFA Career Program was developed in 2019 and serves two purposes: providing an avenue for future leaders to join the agricultural workforce and providing the Ohio FFA State President with safe and reliable transportation during their yearlong term.

Since 2019, Sunrise Cooperative has provided a truck to the state president, and each spring, the truck has been awarded as a signing bonus to an FFA member who joined the cooperative’s team full time after graduation.

This fall, opportunities for senior members to enter the workforce, like the RISE FFA Career Program, will expand through the new Ohio FFA Works program.

This new program will allow the Ohio FFA Foundation to partner with multiple businesses and organizations that want to hire and support the many talented Ohio FFA members looking for their paths to a career in agriculture.

Graduating seniors looking to earn a competitive wage close to home, learn in a hands-on environment, and jump-start their careers after graduation should plan to apply. 2024 seniors will be able to apply to multiple outstanding employers through one application.

More information will be released this fall at ohioffa.org/foundation. Potential employers interested in learning more about Ohio FFA Works should contact Jessica Parrish, jparrish@ohioffa.org. •

At the 95th Ohio FFA Convention, May 4-5, ten Ohio FFA members were recognized for joining the workforce after graduation through the RISE FFA Career Program. Additional employment opportunities in Ohio agriculture for graduating senior members will launch this fall.

FFA, Agriscience Fair propel student to success

STORY BY JODI

From Global Impact STEM Academy to The Ohio State University, and now onto graduate school, Aleacia Laird’s educational journey has been nothing short of inspiring. With a passion for science and a desire to make a difference in the world of agriculture, Laird has taken advantage of every opportunity to develop her skills and knowledge in the field.

One of those opportunities was participation in Global Impact’s FFA program, which prepares students like Laird for the future by integrating agriculture and FFA leadership skills into interdisciplinary problem-based learning through real-world experiences and research.

“After middle school I made the decision to attend high school at Global Impact STEM Academy in Springfield,” Laird said. “Attending high school there allowed me to develop my passion for science and one day have a career in STEM,” said Laird, who also grew up in Springfield.

Throughout her high school years, Laird was an active member of FFA, competing in the Agriscience Fair and honing her research and presentation skills.

“My favorite part about FFA was having the opportunity to compete in the Agriscience Fair,” Laird said. “It allowed me to become better at designing research projects and be more confident in completing research and presenting my scientific findings.”

Agriscience Fair participants must conduct a scientific research project pertaining to the agriculture and food science industries and

present their findings to a panel of judges with a display and a report. Participating in the Agriscience Fair had a substantial impact on Laird’s future career decisions, as it gave her the confidence to pursue a career in STEM.

Rachel Sanders, Laird’s bioresearch instructor and FFA advisor during her junior year in high school, noticed her curiosity with various lab equipment, her strong interest in microbiology, plants and how happy she was when working in the greenhouse.

“In order to help encourage that passion, we worked together to develop her Research SAE around the antibiotic properties of oregano, since this was an herb that her family used in several recipes and she wanted to explore the potential benefits,” Sanders said.

According to Sanders, after watching Laird compete at the State Science Day and Ohio FFA Agriscience Fair at the Ohio FFA Convention, she had a feeling this would develop into a future endeavor for her.

“FFA gave Aleacia the opportunity to explore an interest by completing a research project and competing in Agriscience Fair,” Sanders said. “Which in turn, gave her the opportunity to strengthen her public speaking skills and conduct interviews for college scholarships and internships with greater confidence.”

Laird graduated from The Ohio State University, majoring in

Plant Pathology with a minor in Horticulture, in May. She has plans to continue her education by attending graduate school this fall at The Ohio State University to pursue her Master’s of Plant Pathology and maybe even one day a PhD.

Laird’s story is a testament to the power of education and the importance of seizing every opportunity to learn and grow. From her humble beginnings to her future aspirations of making a difference in the world of agriculture, Laird is a shining example of what can be accomplished with hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning.

“Aleacia is an amazing example of how students’ willingness to challenge themselves can provide opportunities to network with professionals who will benefit them in future endeavors,” Sanders said.

As she looks back on her educational journey and her involvement with FFA, Laird is grateful for the lifelong relationships and career skills she has gained along the way. She knows that FFA will always be a way for her to connect with others and continue learning. Laird is excited for what the future holds as she continues to pursue her dreams in STEM.

“Because of GISA’s FFA program, I am a part of a community and will forever be a way for me to connect with others,” said Laird. “I am thankful for FFA and the Agriscience Fair for preparing me to be a successful scientist and woman in STEM.” •

M. BORGER • PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ALEACIA LAIRD

Big Walnut-DACC educator wins $3,000 for chapter

Agricultural educators play a crucial role in their communities, dedicating countless hours and often their own resources to preparing students for successful careers and helping them follow their interests.

In Ohio, 10 exceptional ag teachers were named as finalists of the 20222023 Golden Owl Award® for their positive impact in the classroom and industry overall. Of the finalists, Jeffrey Stimmell, agriculture teacher at Big Walnut High School and advisor of the Big Walnut-DACC FFA Chapter, was named Ohio’s 20222023 Ag Educator of the Year.

Nationwide, in partnership with the Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio FFA, Farm Credit Mid-America and AgCredit, recognized Stimmell as the 20222023 Golden Owl Award grand prize winner during the Industry Welcome Breakfast at the 95th Ohio FFA Convention. In addition to the title of Ohio’s Ag Educator of the Year, Stimmell received the Golden Owl Award trophy and Big Walnut-DACC FFA will receive a $3,000 Nationwidefunded donation to further its agricultural education efforts.

Throughout Mr. Stimmell’s nineyear career as an agricultural educator, he has more than tripled the FFA membership at Big Walnut – with an additional waiting list of students. He has also coached three consecutive national-winning Food Science & Technology Career Development Event (CDE) teams –including 8 top-ten individuals. While these results are outstanding, it is actually Mr.

OHIO FFA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS! Congratulations,

Stimmell’s willingness to collaborate that sets him apart. He seeks connectedness in his community and with his fellow educators across the state and country. He has mentored pre-service teachers six times, currently serves as the district chair, and is always willing to participate at the state and national levels. His skill and dedication have been put to use as a part of both CDE and standard revision committees. Perhaps most importantly, it is his student-centered approach that help students learn not to underestimate themselves and to never give up.

One nomination submitted on his behalf by a former student stated, “He is compassionate and kind and always willing to hear his students out. Jeff Stimmell gave me a place when I did not belong. I always struggled with fitting in until I found the FFA. I will forever be grateful for the time he spent giving me a home in high school.”

Congratulations to Jeffrey Stimmell, the 2022-2023 Ohio Agricultural Educator of the Year! •

CAREER SHOW & EXPO, PRESENTED BY HERITAGE COOPERATIVE, LARGER THAN EVER

The Career Show & Expo at the 95th Ohio FFA Convention was made up of nearly 70 exhibitors. Commodity organizations, educational institutions, agribusinesses and more interacted with and shared resources for students and teachers. Attendees could also take advantage of multiple shopping options. Thank you, Heritage Cooperative!

The Ohio FFA Foundation recognizes the important role agricultural education plays in developing students both professionally and personally. With the help from various supporters, the Ohio FFA Foundation is pleased to present the following scholarships to current Ohio FFA members. The 2023 scholarships are made possible by the Earl F. “Doc” Kantner Endowment, Ohio State Fair Scholarship Endowment and Ohio HBPA.

EARL F. “DOC” KANTNER SCHOLARSHIP

Cora Crilow, West Holmes

Luke Jennings, Felicity-Franklin

Delaney Moore, Bloom-Carroll

OHIO STATE FAIR ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP

Zane Ortman, New Lexington

Sydney Sanders, Fairfield

OHIO HBPA SCHOLARSHIP

Jeremiah Adams, Northmor

Chloe Anderson, Kenton-OHP

Olivia Ault, John Glenn

Emma Boyer, Wapakoneta

Gavin Eastep, Liberty Union

Tessa Haffner, Warren

Olivia Haines, Smithville

Sarah Hoak, Plymouth

Jalynn Louderback, Jackson

Allison McCafferty, Highland

Adrianna Meyer, Liberty Center

Allison Michaels, Bellevue

Carley Miller, Fairfield Union

Darby Mills, Peebles

Anna Moeller, Talawanda-Butler Tech

Charity Moore, Valley View-MVCTC

Kaydence Morris, Talawanda-Butler Tech

Dalton Mullins, Miami Trace Great Oaks

Audrey Pinger, Felicity-Franklin

Tea Rector, RG Drage CTC

Azelynn Repasky, Sandy Valley

Carrie Rhoades, Ansonia

Baylee Shriver, Upper Sandusky

Carrie Zeedyk, Fairview

Jeffrey Stimmell (left), 2022-2023 Ohio Agricultural Educator of the Year, and Devin Fuhrman (right), Chief Agriculture and Sponsor Relations Officer, Nationwide.

Endowment established to support Urbana FFA

During the 95th Ohio FFA Convention, the Ohio FFA Foundation was honored to announce the establishment of the David & Dorothy Case Endowment to support the Urbana FFA Chapter.

David and Dorothy Case were inspired to support the FFA members in Urbana after seeing the students’ potential as local volunteers and judges.

Each year, the Urbana FFA advisors will determine the chapter’s greatest needs with consideration of how to help more students become involved in the FFA. This funding and generosity will serve Urbana agricultural education students for many years.

“Many people are familiar with the life-changing opportunities the FFA provides for students, but sometimes it is too easy to overlook the financial burden that active FFA membership can put

on a family,” said Jessica Parrish, executive director. “The Ohio FFA Foundation’s goal is to advance the Ohio FFA while reducing barriers of participation for students. Endowments, like this one, go a long way in ensuring the FFA will prosper for generations to come.”

After attending the Ohio FFA Convention in early May, Dorothy commented, “We enjoyed viewing all the displays of Proficiency Awards and Agriscience Fair projects. What an impact these FFA members are going to make in the diverse fields of agriculture, in their communities and in the world!”

“We are tickled beyond belief to be able to do this!” David added. Establishing an endowment is an incredible way to support FFA members in perpetuity. Endowments can be designated to a variety of purposes, including statewide and local support.

When asked about their gift, the Cases said, “Our only regret is that we didn’t start sooner. It has been so fun to invest in our community and the next generation.”

If you or someone you know is interested in exploring the establishment of an endowment, please contact the Ohio FFA Foundation to discuss this opportunity. •

Advisors and members of the Urbana FFA Chapter (left) pictured with David and Dorothy Case (middle) and 22-23 Ohio FFA President, Aubrey Schwartz, and Ohio FFA Foundation executive director, Jessica Parrish, at the 95th Ohio FFA Convention.