By Andi Anderson
Western Illinois University (WIU) Agriculture (Ag) alumni and students were honored at the 2024 National FFA Convention for their exceptional achievements in agricultural education, leadership, and community service.
Their contributions underscored the university's commitment to developing leaders in the agricultural sector.
One of the top awards, the National Chapter Award in Growing Leaders, was given to the Cambridge FFA Chapter, led by WIU alumnus Trent Taber.
This prestigious award celebrates efforts in leadership, personal growth, and career success among students. Taber, who teaches agriculture at Cambridge High School, has been instrumental in shaping future leaders in his community, bringing to life the leadership principles he learned from WIU’s School of Agriculture.
WIU alumni were also pivotal in influencing the national leadership of the FFA. Notably, Thaddeus Bergschneider from the Franklin FFA Chapter was elected as the National FFA President for the 2024-2025 term.
His journey with the FFA was guided by his mentors, Brent Nelson and Kaitlyn Kane, both of whom are proud WIU graduates and dedicated agriculture educators.
Additionally, Steve Sargeant, an agriculture teacher at Bushnell-Prairie City High School and a distinguished WIU alumnus, was awarded the Honorary American FFA Degree. This award honors individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to agricultural education and the FFA.
Sargeant’s leadership also led the Bushnell-Prairie City FFA Alumni Chapter to rank among the top three FFA chapters nationally, showcasing WIU’s lasting influence on agricultural excellence.
Five current WIU agriculture students received the American FFA Degree, the highest recognition for FFA members. The honored students, Kendyl Kane (Monmouth-Roseville), Kayla Davis (Macomb), Adam Vail (West Prairie), Madilynn Barry (Payson), and Maddison Oliver (Fairfield), demonstrated outstanding dedication, skill, and leadership in agriculture.
Andy Baker, the director of WIU’s School of Agriculture, expressed his pride in the accomplishments of WIU alumni and students. He highlighted the invaluable role that WIU-educated teachers play in inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders.
The 2024 National FFA Convention served as a testament to WIU's lasting impact in advancing agricultural education and supporting future agricultural innovators and leaders.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Illinois, Education