GenNext

First-year members were awarded the Greenhand Degree, highlighting their early involvement in FFA and commitment to their Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs). The Star Greenhand Award was presented to Aiden Michel for his outstanding participation, leadership, and strong SAE.

Second-year members received the Chapter Degree for their continued involvement in activities, community service, and SAE growth. Three-year members were also recognized for their dedication, leadership development, and role as mentors to younger members. Senior members were honored for their years of service and the lasting impact they have made on the chapter.

Several members were recognized for earning their State FFA Degree, which will also be awarded at the State FFA Convention in May. Recipients include Noah Liebrecht, Alivia Gilgenbach, Josie Schnipke, Reagan Schiffer, Payton Michel, and Alivia Searfoss. These members have demonstrated strong leadership, commitment to their SAEs, and active involvement at both the chapter and state levels.

The chapter also celebrated two members who will receive the American FFA Degree at the National Convention, the highest honor in FFA. David Siebenck and Lane Pester were recognized for their exceptional SAE achievements and contributions to agriculture.

Honorary Membership was awarded to Mrs. Shelly Kruse in appreciation of her continued support of the chapter’s transportation needs.

Members who competed in Career Development Events (CDEs) were also recognized, including participation in District Soil Judging, State Animal Management, Public Speaking, Farm Business Management, and many others. These events allow students to develop valuable skills and prepare for future careers in agriculture.

Additional awards were presented throughout the evening. Alivia Searfoss received the Ag Credit 110% Award from Heather Brickner and Zac Maag. Issac Wrasman earned the Dekalb Award and was also presented the Barnhart Memorial Scholarship by Don and Marcia Barnhart. The Miller City FFA Scholarship was awarded to Alivia Searfoss and Issac Wrasman for their continued involvement and success in FFA.

President Noah Liebrecht delivered his presidential address, focusing on having faith in the unknown while also honoring Mrs. Elizabeth Tietje and her impact over the past six years as her time with the program comes to an end.

The evening concluded with the installation of the 2026–2027 Officer Team, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Miller City FFA. Officers include President Noah Liebrecht, Vice President Alivia Gilgenbach, Secretary Payton Michel, Treasurer Blake Liebrecht, Assistant Treasurer Noah Kuhlman, Reporter Natalie Ruhe, Sentinel Preston Ohman, Student Advisor Caleb Reichley, and Historian Aiden Michel. The newly installed team closed the banquet with the official closing ceremonies.

Following the banquet, members attended the Ohio FFA State Convention in Columbus, beginning their trip early Thursday morning. During General Session 1, agricultural educators were recognized, FFA members showcased their talents, and keynote speaker Brad Hurtig shared an inspiring message about “finding a way.” The Miller City FFA Chapter was honored with the Charitable Giving Award for donating over $500 to the community.

In the afternoon, two members participated in the State Officer Delegate Session, where they voted on the 2026–2027 state officer candidates. Later, during General Session 2, Dylan Schroeder was recognized for his Proficiency Award in Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance–Entrepreneurship. The session concluded with motivational speaker Jason Hewlett, who encouraged members to find joy in everything they do.

Day two of the convention began with General Session 4, where officers from across the state were recognized for earning a gold rating on their officer books. Miller City FFA members Blake (Secretary), Dylan (Treasurer), Payton (Assistant Treasurer), and Alivia (Reporter) were recognized on stage for their dedication and many hours of work.

Keynote speaker Leah Amstutz spoke about the importance of agricultural education in today’s workforce, encouraging students to continue pursuing opportunities within the industry. Members also explored the convention expo, learning about careers, colleges, and agricultural businesses.

The convention concluded with General Session 5, where Carter Boyd delivered his retiring address and State FFA Degrees were officially awarded, recognizing the hard work and dedication of FFA members across Ohio.

The Miller City FFA Chapter looks forward to building on this year’s success and continuing to grow in leadership, service, and agricultural education!

Collegiate Farm Bureau launches at University of Findlay

Reposted from Ohio Farm Bureau

A new Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter has been established at the University of Findlay, creating opportunities for students to connect with Ohio’s agricultural industry, develop leadership skills and prepare for careers in food and agriculture.

The student-led organization held its first meeting earlier this year, drawing more than 30 attendees and generating interest across campus, particularly through the school’s faculty and animal science program.

“We created the Findlay Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter to give students a voice in their agriculture community and to provide a platform for our members to interact with agriculture leaders,” said Graclyn Heider, chapter president. “This program will be incredibly valuable to the University of Findlay by connecting students to real-world agricultural issues, building strong networks, and preparing us to advocate for the future of the industry.”

Student chapter leaders already have outlined plans for the year ahead, including hosting guest speakers from across the agriculture industry, organizing tours of agricultural businesses and facilities, and offering workshops focused on career readiness, community involvement and internship preparation.

“The launch of a Collegiate Farm Bureau chapter at Findlay is an exciting step in strengthening the pipeline of future agricultural leaders,” said Katie Share, ExploreAg and youth development specialist with Ohio Farm Bureau. “These students are gaining real-world connections and experiences that will serve them well as they step into careers that support Ohio agriculture.”

The chapter’s formation was made possible through the collaboration of interested students, university leadership and Ohio Farm Bureau. Faculty advisers, student government leaders and staff at the University of Findlay played a key role in supporting the approval process and helping bring the organization to campus.

Collegiate Farm Bureau provides college students with opportunities to grow as leaders, engage in policy discussions and build connections across the food and agriculture sectors. Through chapter and state activities, students gain exposure to the issues shaping agriculture while developing skills that translate directly into the workforce.

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ryan Matthews, 614-246-8210 or rmatthews@ofbf.org.

Caption: University of Findlay Collegiate Farm Bureau officer team. From left to right: Kate Welsheimer, Gracelyn Heider, Lauren French and Jacob Rase

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Miller City FFA Starts off 2026 with Leadership, Career Developments, and Community Service

By: Alivia Gilgenbach, 2025-2026 Miller City FFA Reporter

From January through the beginning of April, the Miller City FFA chapter has stayed busy with a wide range of events, competitions, and service activities. These past few months have given members many opportunities to grow as leaders, gain new skills, and get more involved both in and out of the classroom.

Our officer team started the year strong by earning gold ratings on all of their officer books. Dylan Schroeder, with assistant Payton Michel, completed the Treasurer book, Blake Liebrecht completed the Secretary book, and Alivia Gilgenbach completed the Reporter book. This recognition reflects the time and effort our officers put into keeping the chapter organized and successful.

Members also worked hard on their degree and proficiency applications. Dave Siebenck and Lane Pester will earn their American Degree in November, while Alivia Gilgenbach, Noah Liebrecht, Reagan Schiffer, Josie Schnipke, and Payton Michel will earn their State Degree in May. Dylan Schroeder earned a top four placement in his proficiency area of Ag Mechanics and Repair and will receive final results at the State Convention in May.

Many members competed in Career Development Events throughout the winter. In January, the Food Science Team traveled to Riverdale and placed 4th in District 4.

Friends of FFA can see the Ohio FFA Foundation’s impact firsthand among FFA supporters, past state officers, industry representatives, and current and former FFA members and advisors at the Friends of FFA Luncheon on May 1, 2026 during the Ohio FFA Convention. RSVP by April 10 at linktr.ee/ohioffa.

Questions? Please contact foundation@ohioffa.org.

The Pettisville FFA General Livestock Judging Team competed at the Ohio FFA Career Development Event on Saturday, March 28 in Columbus, Ohio. From Left to Right: Bailey Booth, Grace Paxson, Paige Powell, Kaleb Wyse, Alec Genter, Grace Davis, Elaina Lugbill, Courtney Wiemken were members of the team. Alec Genter competed in the Middle School division and placed 20th as an individual.

Pettisville FFA has a State Winner!

Pettisville, Ohio

By: Ali Genter, Pettisville FFA Reporter

On March 28, 2026, 12 Pettisville FFA members competed at the Ohio FFA General Livestock and Poultry Evaluation Career Development Events. The General Livestock team consisted of Bailey Booth, Grace Paxson, Paige Powell, Kaleb Wyse, Grace Davis, Elaina Lugbill, Courtney Wiemken. Alec Genter competed individually in the Middle School Division and placed 20th as an individual. Ali Genter, Olivia Beck, and Gavin Sifuentes were on the Poultry Team and Ames Genter was in the Middle School Division. Ali Genter placed 11th as an individual in the high school division, and Ames Genter placed 1st in the middle school division as an individual. All these students have worked all this winter preparing for their respective CDEs and the chapter would like to send a huge congrats to all these students for their hard work!

The Pettisville FFA Poultry Evaluation Team competed at the Ohio FFA Career Development Event on Saturday, March 28 in Columbus, Ohio. From Left to Right: Ames Genter, Ali Genter, Olivia Beck, Gavin Sifuentes were members of the team. Ames Genter competed in the middle school and won 1st place as an individual. Ali Genter placed 11th individually in the high school division. 

The 2026-2027 Pettisville FFA Officer Team was installed at the 76th annual FFA banquet on March 26, 2026. Back row (left to right): Ty Morrison-Sentinel, Ben Nagel-Student Advisor, Kaleb Wyse-President, Carter Beck-Secretary, Front row (left to right): Hannah Fox-Treasurer, Bailey Booth-Vice President, Ali Genter-Reporter

Pettisville FFA Holds the 76th Annual FFA Banquet

Pettisville, Ohio

By: Ali Genter, Pettisville FFA Reporter

On March 26, 2026, the Pettisville FFA Chapter held the 76th Annual Pettisville FFA Banquet at Pettisville Missionary Church. Administrators, donors, and other area chapter officers were invited to attend. This year, 14 FFA members were awarded Discovery Degrees. The Discovery Degree is awarded to 7th and 8th grade members in their first year of FFA members. The Star Discovery Degree was awarded to one 8th grader, Kole Klophenstein, and three 7th graders; Alec Genter, Ames Genter, and Landri Rufenacht. All four award recipients have been involved with attending meetings, volunteer activities, and have participated in at least one career development event or more. Pettisville FFA had 20 members receive their Greenhand Degrees. This degree is given to freshmen and above first-year high school members. Ali Genter was the Star Greenhand winner. Ali has been actively competing in multiple state level CDEs in the past year as well as being an outstanding leader in the FFA. Ten members received their Chapter FFA Degrees. The requirements to obtain this degree are having the Greenhand FFA degree, working 45 hours for their SAE or earning $150, participating in three chapter events, and leading a discussion about agriculture topics. Bailey Booth was this year’s Star Chapter winner. Bailey served as a chapter officer this year and has participated in many CDEs. She has also been an amazing leader throughout her time here in the FFA. Pettisville FFA had a successful turnout this year for Fall sales. The top four sellers were first place-Ava Genter, second place-Jamison Beck, third place- Kaleb Wyse, and fourth place-Hannah Fox.

Nofziger Trucking sponsored the Good Recordkeeping Award again this year. This award was given to students who have kept their records consistent in the Agricultural Experience Tracker (AET). Six FFA students were awarded. Courtney Wiemken was the overall Outstanding Recordkeeping Award recipient. This year we had two FFA members receive the Mr. & Miss Volunteer Award. These students are quick to volunteer and complete tasks that may not be the most fun. This year’s winners were Carter Beck and Hannah Fox. The Top Scholar Award is for a Junior and Senior FFA member who has the highest GPA over all their classes through the first semester of the current school year. The Top Scholar Award recipients were Ava Genter and Kaleb Wyse. The Ron Rupp Leadership award was received by Ava Genter. This award is given to a student either junior or senior, who exhibits outstanding leadership. Ava has shown outstanding leadership through the four years she has been involved in FFA. She most recently served as the chapter President for the past two years. The Outstanding Junior Award was awarded to Kaleb Wyse. He recently served as the chapter sentinel and has attended every chapter FFA meeting this past year. He has competed in CDEs and has attended multiple events to where he has been able to grow his leadership skills even further this year. He will also be receiving his State Degree this April in Columbus at the Ohio FFA State Convention. Burkholder Farms sponsored this award. The Outstanding Senior Award was awarded to Olivia Beck, Katie Moore, and Courtney Wiemken. These outstanding ladies have been very involved in their last years here in the FFA. All three served as chapter officers, volunteered, grew and maintained their SAEs, participated in CDEs, and showed their dedication to the FFA Chapter. Burkholder sponsored this award. The FFA Alumni awarded four seniors and one recent graduate, who are planning or are enrolled in an agricultural or related major when furthering their education in college, with a scholarship of $500.00. Noelle Fox, a college student at Huntington University, received one of the scholarships and plans to use it to continue her education with a degree in Agribusiness-Animal Production. Ava Genter, Olivia Beck, Courtney Wiemken, and Creighton Aeschliman were the four seniors who also received this amazing scholarship.

This year’s Honorary Chapter Degree was given to Hannah Meller and Tony and Annalisa Wiemken. This degree is for those who help support and encourage advancement in agricultural education. These three individuals have helped out our chapter tremendously. Hannah Meller serves as the alumni’s scholarship and grant committee chairperson and has helped us in many ways whenever we ask. Mr. and Mrs. Wiemken helps us make popcorn for pumpkin fest every year and as well as secure the ice cream machine for banquet. We wouldn’t know what to do without these individuals. We send many thanks to them for always being willing to help out. For this year’s Pest Hunt, over 13,000 points were turned into the chapter. The top participant was Kaleb Wyse. Kaleb turned in 4,800 points earning first place. The Agriscience Research Award was received by Gavin Sifuentes, Creighton Aeschliman, and Naomi Richer. These three students completed an agriscience fair research project for their research SAEs. They presented their findings at various sciences fairs including the District 1 Agriscience Fair, regional science fair, and Ohio FFA Agriscience fair. Their award was sponsored by Beck Show Lambs. The Officer Book Gold Ratings were given out. Katie Moore, Secretary, and Genevive Galvin, Treasurer, received gold ratings for their officer books this year and will be recognized at the Ohio FFA State Convention. The Weber Family sponsored this award.

Those who scored over 350 leadership points earned the Positive Points Performer Award. Thirty-six FFA members received this year’s award. The top performers in each class were: Freshman Ali Genter, Sophomore Bailey Booth, Junior Kaleb Wyse, and Senior Olivia Beck. Rufenacht Farms sponsored this award. Ava Genter was the 2025-2026 Chapter Sweetheart and crowned the new 2026-2027 Chapter Sweetheart Paige Powell.  To conclude the 76th Annual Banquet, the 2026-2027 Officer Team was installed: Kaleb Wyse as President, Bailey Booth as Vice President, Carter Beck as Secretary, Hannah Fox as Treasurer, Ali Gnter as Reporter, Ty Morrison as Sentinel, and Ben Nagel as Student Advisor.

Evergreen FFA Receives a Gold Rating & a Top 10 State Placing

The Evergreen FFA Chapter achieved a gold rated state award which has not been completed for over two decades. The National Chapter Award is a state and national award within the National FFA Organization. Within this award area, there is a three rank system with gold, silver, and bronze. This year the Evergreen FFA made a goal to apply for this award in hopes of receiving at least a gold rating. The chapter was able to successfully achieve such a goal and even receive a bonus with a top 10 placing in the Strengthening Agriculture division. With the gold rating, the Evergreen FFA Chapter is in the top 15% in the state and will advance to the national level later this summer.

In late March, the chapter will continue their venture by competing in the Strengthening Agriculture interviews against nine other FFA chapters across the state. The chapter has conducted three large events in the category to bring them to this top 10. The events include an elementary agricultural day last May, agricultural safety program with the middle schoolers, and a recruitment activity with the eighth graders in February.

The National Chapter award program recognizes FFA chapters for their events and activities benefitting the three aspects of the a program of activities (yearly calendar) through growing leaders, building communities, and strengthening agriculture. This award measures how a chapter contributes to its members’ personal growth, to the community, and the agricultural industry. To be able to apply for this award area, the chapter must plan, execute, and evaluate 15 different activities under the program of activities.

This year, the chapter decided to utilize committees within their chapter to be able to effectively develop 15 activities aside from the traditional events such as raising awareness for pediatric cancer through the Gold Games and officer retreat. Each FFA member in the chapter was a part of these planning committees. With the support of the committees, the chapter was able to introduce new events such as Career Development Event Speed Dating Workshops and recyclable Christmas ornament making for those in need.

Calling all young ag leaders! The State YAP Committee is looking for the next class of committee members. If you’re passionate about agriculture and ready to lead, this is your moment.

Serve a 2‑year term, help shape the Winter Leadership Experience, and join a team of driven young professionals.

Apply today at ofb.ag/YAPComm. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026.

Beery wins Ohio Farm Bureau 2026 Collegiate Discussion Meet

by Ohio Farm Bureau Staff

Ruth Beery of Wilmington College Collegiate Farm Bureau is the winner of Ohio Farm Bureau’s 2026 Collegiate Discussion Meet competition.

The results were announced during the YAP Winter Leadership Experience in January. As the winner of the state Collegiate Discussion Meet, Beery received a $1,000 scholarship and complimentary registration to the 2026 Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference in Portland, Oregon, where she will compete at the national level this month.

The Collegiate Discussion Meet tests participants’ knowledge of key issues, problem-solving abilities and communications skills around current agricultural issues, and to work together to find solutions.

Beery grew up in Ross County and has been heavily involved with Farm Bureau on the county and collegiate levels. This spring she will finish up her two-year term as Wilmington College’s Collegiate Farm Bureau president. She also serves as board secretary for Ross County Farm Bureau.

She is a senior at Wilmington College and will graduate this spring with degrees in animal science and biology. After graduation, Beery plans to attend The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, with the goal of becoming a large-animal veterinarian.

The Ohio Farm Bureau Collegiate Farm Bureau program connects current industry professionals and students, promotes agriculture and related fields and develops future leaders of the agriculture industry by providing opportunities in leadership and civic engagement, career development, professional development and experiential learning.

Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Become a member today at ohiofarmbureau.org

This is a news release for use by journalists. Questions should be directed to Ryan Matthews, 614-246-8210 or rmatthews@ofbf.org