The energy at the 2026 Minnesota FFA Convention was truly inspiring as we gathered to recognize the passion and dedication of students pursuing careers in agricultural education. From interactive booth activities to formal recognition ceremonies, the spirit of the profession was on full display throughout the event.
Growing the Profession at the 2026 Minnesota FFA Convention
At the Teach Ag booth, students were invited to share the impact their agriculture teachers have had on their lives. Many students reflected on how their advisors pushed them to try new things, step out of their comfort zones, and always be their best. Whether they were motivated by shared wisdom or "bribed with Mountain Dew and welding," these students are inspired to follow their dreams and specifically pursue careers in agriculture. It is clear that the dedication of current educators—described as supportive role models who provide grace and kindness—is inspiring a new generation to lead.
Teach Ag Signing
A major highlight of the 2026 Minnesota FFA Convention was the official Teach Ag Signing ceremony. Mr. Eric Sawatzke, President of the Minnesota Association of Agricultural Educators (MAAE), and Maren Hulden, Deputy Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education, were present to sign certificates with the future agricultural educators.
This year, 18 students (including 3 not pictured) committed to the path of agricultural education:
- Braden McGlinchey, Belle Plaine (SCC + UMN-TC Transfer Pathway)
- Piper Rigge, Redwood Valley (Southwest Minnesota State University)
- Fiona Robillard, Windom (Southwest Minnesota State University)
- Shayna Erickson, Barnesville High School (University of Minnesota, Crookston)
- Kylie Plambeck, Farmington High School (University of Minnesota, Crookston)
- Ella Aarsvold, Kasson Mantorville (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities)
- Mason Lichy, Holdingford (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities)
- Liv Vander Kooi, Worthington High School (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities)
- Allison Smith, Barnesville (NDSCS)
- Owen Blat, Highland Park, St. Paul (North Dakota State University)
- Hannah Brandt, Ada-Borup-West (North Dakota State University)
- Kendra Ross, Pelican Rapids High School (North Dakota State University)
- Alyssa Winkle, United South Central (Oklahoma State University)
- Lydia Anderson, Fergus Falls High School (South Dakota State University)
- Alexandria Confer, Sleepy Eye (South Dakota State University)
- Hilari Palodichuk, Cannon Falls (South Dakota State University)
- Olivia Johnson, NRHEG (University of Wisconsin, River Falls)
- Dawson Sanford, Cannon Falls (University of Wisconsin, River Falls)
Agricultural Education CDE
The Agricultural Education Career Development Event (CDE) showcased the teaching skills of several talented students. This is a new event that was organized by agricultural education faculty from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, University of Minnesota-Crookston, and Southwest Minnesota State University. It was sponsored by Minnesota Teach Ag, a program of State Teach Ag Results (STAR). This year, St. Paul Highland Park took home 1st place. While they have passed on the national opportunity, Hendricks—the 2nd place finishers—will be competing at the National FFA Convention in October!
Ag Ed CDE Participants & Lessons:
- St. Paul Highland Park: Owen B. & Adwoa F. — Comparing Nutritional Needs of Livestock Species
- Hendricks: Rylan S. & Samantha H. — Chicken Breeds
- Crookston FFA: Addisyn S. & Emilee S. — Livestock Lingo 101
- Isle #1: Haley H. & Zelia G. — Cat Care & Health Condition
- Isle #2: Emilina B. & Candice K. — Duck Production in the USA - Industry, Breeds & Care
- Litchfield: Bianca F. & Des P. — Ruminant Digestion
- Perham: Lucey M. & Caylee S. — TMR/Feed Ration Introduction
- Windom: Fiona R. — Who's Infected?
Agricultural Education Proficiency Results
We are proud to recognize the students who have excelled in their Agricultural Education Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. These awards represent hours of teaching and leadership within their communities. The state winner will advance to compete at the national level.
- Addisyn Schiller, Crookston
- Eden Messerli, Gibbon-Fairfax-Winthrop
- Kayla Hoffmann, Cleveland
Building the Future Together
The 2026 Minnesota FFA Convention showcased the momentum and excitement around careers in agricultural education. As these future educators head to their post-secondary education, all carry a shared purpose: to inspire, educate, and lead in classrooms and communities across Minnesota and beyond.
Minnesota Teach Ag is honored to walk alongside these students by providing mentorship, support, and career resources as they begin their journey. The energy and dedication witnessed at the 2026 Minnesota FFA Convention prove that the future of agricultural education is in good hands.