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
Ivy Elwell • La Monte President
Seth Engeman • Montrose 1st Vice President
Ryatt Haggerman • Versailles Secretary
Vice Presidents
Harlee Beck • Chillicothe
Cierra Britton • Cuba
Sophie Geppert • North Callaway
Noah Groose • Dadeville
Cash Honeycutt • Orrick
Abigayle Lett • Odessa
Lindsay McDonald • Mount Vernon
Annie Neely • Lockwood
Taylor Nothdurft • Oak Ridge
Maddy Rash • Buffalo
Kolton Stolba • Willow Springs
Gage Swindler • Braymer
Braxton Watts • El Dorado Springs
State Officer Mentor
Matthew Lakey • Ava
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.
My
Ag
TO:
Loren Meservey FROM: Jamesport FFA Member
Teacher is Great Because ...
She always pushes us to do our very best in everything we do. You’ve guided me to where I am today, and I’m so thankful to have you, Ms. Meservey.
Celebrating Ag Teacher Success
gricultural education programs and teachers were recently recognized for outstanding achievement at the 102nd Missouri Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association (MVATA) Summer Conference. Congratulations to the following award winners:
Outstanding Program - Farmington
Outstanding Ag Education Teacher - Angela Roller
Jess Clonts Outstanding First Year Teacher - Erin Creason
Outstanding Mentor - Josh Bondy
NAAE Teachers Turn the Key - Morgan Looten
Clonts on the Ball Award - Grace Miller
Outstanding Early Career Teacher - Amanda Twenter
interested in more than just cows and tractors proud to be living to serve I am learning to be a great leader a future member of a co-op that shares my values
Electric co-ops are different. We have pride in our local community and support people who live here. Why? Because we live here too. We exist to provide the best service possible to help our community thrive. We put our Members First.
MISSOURI FFA IN ACTION
State Day of Service at the Missouri State Fair
Missouri FFA joined forces with Missouri Farmers Care and Feeding Missouri through the Drive to Feed Kids for an impactful state day of service at this year’s Missouri State Fair in Sedalia on Tuesday, August 12. This year’s event brought together more than 600 FFA members from 70 chapters across the state. Together, with more than 90 additional volunteers, a total of 177,792 meals were packed.
PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
Ivy Elwell | State President
s summer winds down, it is time to start thinking about all the opportunities that are going to be coming your way this school year.
BACK TO SCHOOL! BACK TO FFA!
Click at right and listen up for all of the cool activities you can do in FFA!
After some careful consideration—and a little arm twisting —I agreed to give fall speaking a shot. That experience was new, different and honestly a little scary, but it quickly became one of the best decisions I have ever made. Not only did I learn important writing and speaking skills, but I also discovered how to be an advocate for agriculture. Preparing my speech taught me how to research, organize ideas, and communicate confidently. I met so many like-minded members, formed lasting friendships, and grew more comfortable sharing my voice and perspective with others.
FFA offers an incredible variety of opportunities that go far beyond the classroom. From conferences like HYPE and HYMAX to Area Leadership Conferences, Greenhand
Motivational Conferences, and public speaking contests, Missouri FFA is packed with chances to grow, lead and explore. Want to develop your teamwork and problem-solving skills? Try Career Development Events (CDEs) like Livestock Judging, Floriculture or Agricultural Sales. Want to grow your knowledge about entrepreneurship or agribusiness? Dive into a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) project based on ag sales. Passionate about science? Participate in Agriscience Fair competitions or explore biotechnology workshops.
Trying something new in FFA is not just about building your resume—it is about discovering who you are and what you are capable of. You will gain skills that prepare you for life: leadership, communication, time management, critical thinking and the confidence to speak up and stand out. Each new experience helps shape your future. The relationships, the lessons and the memories you make through FFA will last a lifetime. Take advantage of every opportunity—not just to better yourself, but to make a difference in the agriculture community and beyond.
SEPT 6-13 SEMO District Fair, Cape Girardeau
SEPT 12 State PAS Leadership Conference, State Tech College of Missouri, Linn
SEPT 12 SEMO District Fair Speech Contest, Cape Girardeau
SEPT 12 Northwest Missouri State University Ag Ed on the Move Training Day, Maryville
SEPT
SEPT
SEPT
SEPT
SEPT 19 MU CAFNR Tiger Classic Golf Tournament, Lake of the Woods Golf Course, Columbia
SEPT 21-27 National Farm Safety and Health Week
SEPT 23 NWMSU School of Agricultural Sciences Visit Day, Maryville
CHAPTER SPOTLIGHTS
Fall-ing into FFA
Farmington FFA members kick off back to school with one of their members’ favorite events of the year.
armington FFA members celebrate back to school season with both competition and fellowship throughout an event their chapter calls “Fall Roundup.”
“The Fall Roundup is our first chapter meeting each school year to introduce our new members and welcome back returning ones,” says Clare Maloney, an agricultural education student at Farmington High School and president of the Farmington FFA Chapter. “It is typically hosted after the first few weeks of school, which usually falls in mid-September.”
This unique event has become a tradition all students look forward to.
“Our Fall Roundup started as a way to introduce new members to FFA with a fun twist, often involving Ag Olympics consisting of watermelon eating contests, roping and more fun games,” Maloney says. “Over the past few years, it has become a favorite event for old and new members who
can reconnect with their friends and have a fun time amidst the back to school chaos.”
These are some of the reasons she enjoys the event as well, Maloney adds.
“My favorite part of Fall Roundup is watching our incoming members grow their passion for FFA and make friends with all of our amazing members. I also love getting to catch up with people I have not seen all summer.
“It is an important event because it introduces people who are new to our program to what we do throughout the year in FFA. The nervous freshmen who we beg to attend our first meeting always leave excited for the next one.”
Challenges at the Roundup have included a three-legged race, cornhole and even a barrel racing event consisting of pushing a wheelbarrow full of bouncy balls through an obstacle course. This unique event is positioned
during back to school to encourage early involvement in FFA and present opportunities for the upcoming year.
“At this meeting, we not only have fun, but we also discuss key events coming up quickly in our chapter, such as our fall fundraisers and the National Convention trip,” Maloney explains. “This builds member excitement and allows them time to plan for these events.”
Members leave this kickoff meeting with a better understanding of what is going on behind the scenes in the FFA chapter, a full stomach and at least one or two new friends.
“We hope that our members start the year off realizing that our organization is a family they can count on throughout the rest of their high school career,” Maloney says.
Shop Time Legacies
The Troy agricultural education department has a rich history ag mechanics - a tradition that sets students up for career success.
hough many opportunities for real-world experience are built into the Troy agricultural education department, ag mechanics is a cornerstone of the program and has been since the 1930s.
“Our curriculum is designed to build technical skills and critical thinking abilities,” says Rob Calvin, an ag ed teacher and FFA advisor at Troy.
All freshmen begin with Agricultural Science 1, which introduces arc welding and foundational mechanics. Sophomores with an interest can enroll in Agricultural Science 2 – Mechanics, where they further develop welding and mechanical skills. Approved juniors are invited to enroll in Agricultural Construction, focused on design and fabrication. Finally, as seniors, students advance to Agricultural Power and Structures, which reinforces a wide range of skills aligned with industry standards and the Agricultural Mechanics Career Development Event.
“Our facility is designed specifically for advanced construction and metal fabrication work,” Calvin explains. “It is equipped with an extensive array of metalworking tools and machinery that enable students to work on multiple large projects simultaneously. The layout of our shop supports collaborative learning and real-world application of technical concepts.”
According to Calvin, foundational work by legendary educator Jess Clonts created a culture of excellence in agricultural mechanics. That tradition was later emphasized by former ag teachers Jim Schulze and Doyle Justus. Today, students are drawn to the hands-on nature of the program, which emphasizes problem-solving and learning by doing.
“I wanted to build a trailer for the experience it would bring me and because my dad built one in high school,” says Karsen Williams, a Troy ag education student.
Large projects like utility trailers are a trademark of the ag mechanics program.
“Each year begins with students in Agricultural Construction honing their welding and fabrication skills,” Calvin says. “By mid-September, they are divided into small teams to build a group project, such as a single-axle utility trailer or a skid loader attachment, using a construction plan. After completing their group project, students transition to designing and fabricating their own individual projects.”
The lessons taught throughout this process are endless.
“Our ag mechanics program equips students with career-ready skills,” Calvin says. “They learn how to interpret technical plans, take precise measurements and apply problemsolving strategies to real projects.”
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
FFA TODAY: Tell us a little about yourself.
WARREN: I grew up in Northwest Missouri and now live in Jefferson City, where I work on the communications team for the Office of the Governor. I graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree in Agriculture Education, Communications and Leadership. My family and I raise registered dairy goats, a project we started years ago through FFA and continue today. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, traveling or reading a good book.
FFA TODAY: Tell us about your involvement in agriculture.
WARREN: While I wouldn’t say I grew up on a farm, I count myself lucky to have had agriculture be a constant presence in my life thanks to 4-H, FFA and the many farm families that surrounded me. My sisters and I first began showing and raising registered dairy goats for 4-H and FFA projects in 2009, and it quickly became a family effort. However, I didn’t truly begin to
understand production agriculture until after graduating from college when I went to work for Missouri Soybeans. As a member of the MoSoy communications team, I had the opportunity to share farmers’ stories, advocate for the soybean industry, and work on campaigns that connected producers and consumers in relatable ways. Today, even though my current role isn’t directly in agriculture, I still use those same skills and values to connect with people and share stories that matter.
FFA TODAY: Can you share about your current occupation?
WARREN: As Deputy Communications Director for Governor Mike Kehoe, I help manage the Governor’s public messaging and outreach. My role includes coordinating media and press relations, overseeing social media, developing written communications and supporting a variety of projects to ensure Missourians are informed and engaged with the Governor’s priorities.
NAME: Madelyn Warren
HOMETOWN: Dawn, Missouri
FFA CHAPTER: Chillicothe
COLLEGE: University of Missouri, Agriculture Education
(Communications & Leadership)
OCCUPATION:
Deputy Communications Director for the Office of Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe
FFA TODAY: What was your favorite part of FFA?
WARREN: My favorite part of FFA was the friendships I made that have lasted well beyond high school. Many of those same people are now peers and contacts in my career. Those connections — along with the experiences we shared — have been incredibly valuable.
FFA TODAY: What activities were you involved in while in FFA?
WARREN: FFA was truly the place I felt like I belonged, so I tried to do as many things as possible. Creed contest, parliamentary procedure, ag issues, extemporaneous speaking, fall speeches, FFA Camp, Area Officer Institute, WLC, Public Speaking Academy, LEAD conference.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
Former FFA member (right with camera) Madelyn Warren works as deputy communications director for Governor Mike Kehoe.
FFA TODAY: What was the greatest lesson you learned in FFA?
WARREN: Failure isn’t the opposite of success – it’s part of it. Some of my most valuable lessons came from the times I didn’t win the contest, land the opportunity or get the result I wanted. But failure forces you to adapt, work harder and see things from a new perspective. Mistakes and setbacks are simply proof you’re trying.
FFA TODAY: How did FFA impact where you are today?
WARREN: All through high school and even into my freshman year of college, I was certain I would work in the medical field. Looking back, I can see God placed several opportunities in my path that were really redirections. From speaking with customers at Whole Foods alongside my MAbA classmates to advocating with my fellow officers in the state capitol, FFA showed me that my true calling is to share stories. Those experiences shaped my confidence, my career path and the way I connect with people today.
FFA TODAY: Who is your biggest influence?
WARREN: My mom is without a doubt my biggest influence. When my father passed away, she showed me and my family what true strength, resilience and grace look like. As a nurse, she balanced long shifts caring for others with the responsibility of raising four children, never once letting us feel unsupported. She taught me the value of hard work, compassion and perseverance—lessons that continue to guide me in every part of my life.
FFA TODAY: What advice do you have for current FFA members?
WARREN: In agriculture, we often use little litmus tests to measure how “ag” someone is – “Did you grow up on a farm? What kind? How many head? Did you show? Were you in FFA? What contests did you do? How far did you go? Who do you know?” It’s easy to let those questions and the following conversations associated with them feel like you don’t measure up. But the truth is, there is no single definition of what it means to “be ag.” Every path looks different and oftentimes, they do not end where you expect them to. Nevertheless, each one holds value. In FFA and beyond, focus less on fitting someone else’s mold and more on building your own story – that’s where your impact will come from.
Teaching for Teachers
Missouri agricultural education teachers brush up on ag knowledge and skills through summer training opportunities.
School has been out for summer … or has it? While summer might not mean spending much time actively teaching for Missouri’s agricultural education teachers, it is a busy time repairing facilities, updating curriculum, replenishing supplies, coordinating county fairs and completing numerous tasks at their school and in the community. Summer is also the time when many teachers go back to school themselves. As the ag industry is constantly evolving and widely diverse, it is almost impossible for a teacher to be an expert in all facets of the field. That is
where workshops, institutes and a conference just for ag teachers are crucial. While professional development opportunities are available for teachers throughout the year, the summer is especially robust with options.
These pictures represent a small sample of this summer’s teacher training, funded by the Missouri FFA Foundation. If you would like to help support more teacher training, you can make a designated donation at https://donorbox.org/moffafoundation2025
Missouri FFA Foundation funds teacher training activities including food science (top left), agriscience (top right) and poultry (bottom left). Teacher retention professional development programs (bottom right) are also funded.
Agriscience Sparks Success
Learn how Pleasant Hope FFA member Addison Rogers’ Agriscience projects sparked her curiosity in the ag industry.
Addison Rogers was named State Star in Agriscience at the 97th Missouri FFA State Convention, earning the honor through innovative research projects and dedication to agricultural science.
Rogers, a member of the Pleasant Hope FFA Chapter, began her Supervised Agricultural Experience during her freshman year by studying the effects of extreme temperatures on motor oil.
“I wanted to test something that really keeps agriculture moving,” Rogers says. “Oil might not be the first thing you think of in farming, but without it, a lot of modern equipment wouldn’t run.”
After overcoming a fiery mishap in the shop, she discovered synthetic blend had the least evaporative loss, while full synthetic performed best in freezing temperatures. That project earned first place at the State Agriscience Fair and 10th in the nation.
In her sophomore year, Rogers conducted two award-winning studies. One tested whether third graders retained more agricultural knowledge
through hands-on or auditory learning, and another examined the freeze resistance of copper, PEX, and PVC pipes after her school greenhouse’s plumbing froze.
“That project came straight from a real-life problem we had,” Rogers explains. “I wanted to find a solution that could help farmers and ag programs avoid costly damage.”
Beyond her research, Rogers has embraced leadership and service within FFA and her school. She has served in leadership roles at the chapter and area levels, has competed in numerous Career Development Events, and is active in FCCLA, NHS and athletics.
“FFA has pushed me to lead, speak up and try new things,” she says. “It’s given me the confidence to go after big goals.”
Rogers plans to pursue a degree in agricultural education and become an elementary ag teacher in a rural community in the future.
WHICH BACK TO SCHOOL PERSONALITY ARE YOU?
1. How would you describe your summer?
a. Fun
b. Active
c. Adventurous
d. Filled with FFA
2. Pick a back to school FFA event:
a. Kickball
b. Ag Olympics
c. Field Trip
d. State Officer Chapter Visit
3. Pick a fall FFA activity:
a. Fruit Sales
b. Bradford Field Day
c. Officer Interviews
d. Fall Speech
4. What is your favorite school lunch?
a. Chicken Patty
b. Pizza
c. Hamburger
d. Tacos
RESULTS:
5. What is your favorite subject in school?
a. Math
b. English
c. History
d. Science
6. Pick a word to describe back to school season:
a. Social
b. Busy
c. Fun
d. Boring
7. Pick a fall dessert:
a. Apple Crisp
b. Pumpkin Pie
c. S’mores
d. Caramel Apples
8. Pick a fall activity:
a. Hayride
b. Bonfire
c. Pumpkin Patch
d. Corn Maze
9. Pick a fall drink:
a. Pumpkin Spice Latte
b. Chai Tea
c. Apple Cider
d. Root Beer Float
10. Pick a form of potato:
a. Baked Potato
b. Mashed Potatoes
c. Potato Pancakes
d. French Fries
If you picked mostly A’s: You like to have fun in school! You’re a social butterfly who is looking forward to seeing friends and your favorite teachers once again. Enjoy this school year!
If you picked mostly B’s: You like to stay busy in school! From extra curricular activities to group projects, you’re looking forward to the fast pace a new year brings. Enjoy this school year!
If you picked mostly C’s: You like to try new things in school! Maybe it’s a new sport, new after school activity or a new class. You’re looking forward to stretching yourself this year. Enjoy this school year!
If you picked mostly D’s: You’re the FFA fanatic in school! All things circle back to the ag classroom with you. You can’t wait to dive into a busy FFA season this year. Enjoy this school year!
