By Dr. Nicholas Heller
The Illinois State University Department of Agriculture proudly hosted the 2026 North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture (NACTA) Judging Conference this spring, welcoming nearly 700 students, faculty, coaches, and industry professionals from across the country to Bloomington-Normal for one of the largest collegiate agriculture judging events in North America.
Hosted annually by a member institution, the NACTA Judging Conference provides undergraduate students with opportunities to compete in career-focused agricultural events that strengthen technical knowledge, critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and professional decision-making skills. The 2026 conference featured 17 separate competitive events spanning disciplines across the agricultural industry.
Illinois State hosted contests and activities across campus and at several partner locations including the Interstate Center, Cross Implement, and the Livingston County Fairgrounds. Students competed in more than 1,200 individual contest entries throughout the week, showcasing the depth and diversity of agricultural education programs nationwide.
“This event represented the very best of agricultural higher education,” said Dr. Lucas Maxwell, chair of the Department of Agriculture. “These judging competitions gave students an opportunity to apply what they learned in the classroom while building professional skills, confidence, and industry connections. We were honored to welcome colleagues and students from across the country to Illinois State University.”
Source : illinoisstate.edu