Nationwide and FFA recognize 15 outstanding agricultural educators
Nationwide and its state FFA partners have announced the winners of the 2025-2026 Golden Owl Award, recognizing outstanding agricultural educators who help prepare the next generation of agriculture leaders.
The program has experienced its strongest year yet, receiving more than 4,900 nominations and recognizing 107 finalists across 15 states. The award highlights teachers who go above and beyond to support students interested in agriculture, agribusiness and environmental stewardship.
The 15 state winners were selected from among the finalists and earned the title of Ag Educator of the Year in their respective states. Each recipient receives the prestigious Golden Owl Award trophy along with $3,000 in funding to support new opportunities and educational programs for students.
Nationwide launched the Golden Owl Award in 2018 in partnership with state FFA organizations. Since then, the program has provided more than $800,000 to support agricultural education, students, teachers, school programs, and FFA organizations. The initiative has continued to expand, adding Delaware and Utah as participating states in 2025.
The 15 educators named Ag Educators of the Year through the Golden Owl Award program were:
“These outstanding teachers exemplify passion and devotion to shaping the future of their communities,” said Brad Liggett, president of Agribusiness at Nationwide. “Their tireless efforts inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders, and we’re proud to recognize their invaluable contributions as Ag Educators of the Year.”
In addition to recognizing state winners, finalists selected by state committees receive financial recognition for their contributions to agricultural education. Nationwide also contributes funding to participating state FFA organizations to strengthen agricultural learning opportunities.
The award program continues to grow as more communities recognize the importance of agricultural educators in preparing students for careers in farming, agribusiness, sustainability, and environmental management.
More information about the Golden Owl Award, past recipients, participating partners and nomination opportunities is available through the program’s official website.
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