South Dakota FFA members awarded scholarships during annual convention last week in Brookings

April 3-5, 2025:

South Dakota FFA is dedicated to premier leadership, personal growth, and career success and is therefore proud to support South Dakota FFA members in their post-secondary education. The following scholarships were awarded at the 97^th State FFA Convention in Brookings, SD on Friday, April 4, 2025.

The Ernie Wingen Scholarship is provided by the SD FFA Foundation’s Ernie Wingen Memorial Endowment for students studying any field of agriculture. The recipient of this $2000 scholarship is Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central.

The Fred and Joan DeRouchey Family Scholarship is provided by the SD FFA Foundation’s Fred and Joan DeRouchey Family Endowment for students studying animal science. The recipient of this $2000 scholarship is Ginny Warkenthien, Willow Lake.

The Jeff Hoffman Memorial Scholarship is funded by Jeff’s family in honor of his devotion to youth in agriculture education and based off an essay. The recipient of this $1000 scholarship is Patty Timmons, Rapid City Stevens.

The Gary Grey Agricultural Education Scholarship is awarded to FFA members studying Agricultural Education at a post-secondary institution. The scholarship is sponsored in part by Kelvin and Carol Grey, Ellery Grey and Nickolas Grey, in honor of Kelvin’s brother and Ellery and Nickolas’s dad, Gary who was the State FFA Advisor for 14 years. This year’s scholarship recipients, pictured with Kelvin and Carol Grey, sponsor, are:

• Elena Andrews, Beresford
• Shayna Ness, Kimball
• Madilynn VonEye, Kimball
• Taya Kristine, Belle Fourche

Kendal Thompson Memorial Scholarship is funded by DPI Global for students pursuing degrees in any agricultural major. Kendal was an FFA advisor who moved into the agricultural industry but never lost his heart for agriculture education and FFA. He was visionary and passionate – helping start the 1st SD FFA Leadership Camp, renovate the SD FFA Ag Adventure Center at the State Fair and fund the Leadership and Program Manager Endowment. In his honor, one $1000 scholarship is awarded to a student studying at a 2-year school and one to a student studying at a 4-year school of higher education. This year’s recipients, pictured with Dan Thompson, sponsor, are:

• Ashley Schriever, Philip
• Caden Phelps, Arlington

The Wade Lang Memorial Scholarship is given in memory of Wade Lang who served as the South Dakota State FFA Treasurer and sponsored by the rest of the 1991-1992 State Officer team. This $1000 memorial scholarship was presented to Josie Nold, Brookings.

The Wosje Agricultural Business Scholarship is sponsored by Chad Wosje, South Dakota State University graduate and Sioux Valley FFA Alumni.  The recipients of this $750 scholarship is Elena Andrews, Beresford.

Mary Hansen Memorial Scholarships is provided by the SD FFA Foundation’s Mary Hansen Memorial Endowment for FFA members who are State FFA Degree recipients from Minnehaha or Lincoln counties. This year’s recipients of the $1000 scholarships  are:

• Brody Stenger, Sioux Falls CTE
• Ireland McAreavey, Tri-Valley
• Ethan Bovill, Alcester-Hudson
• Tyler Strasser, Lennox-Sundstrom

Blue & Gold Scholarships are offered by the SD FFA Association to any graduating senior who has been active in FFA pursuing further education. This year’s recipients of the $750 scholarships are:

• Katrina Thon, Bridgewater-Emery
• Skyler Plucker, Lennox-Sundstrom
• Kate Meyer, Sisseton
• Lauren Roling, McCook Central

The Marsh Agricultural Scholarship is for students studying agriculture and is sponsored by Doug and Claire Marsh. The recipients of this $500 scholarship are:

• Blaise McGregor, Webster
• Bennett Gordon, Sturgis

The District 2 Scholarship is sponsored by past State FFA Officer Ashley Wiesen and her husband Jordan, for someone from FFA District 2 with exemplary leadership traits. This year’s recipient of the $500 scholarship, pictured with Ashley Wiesen, is Samantha Brenden, Willow Lake.

The SD Nursery and Landscape Association Scholarship is sponsored by the South Dakota Nursery and Landscape Association for a student pursuing a degree in horticulture. This $500 scholarship was presented to Mackenzie Steinhauer, Brookings.

The 605 Sires+Donors Scholarship is sponsored by 605 Sires+Donors for a student studying anywhere in South Dakota with interest in cattle reproduction or animal science. This $1000 scholarship was presented by Corey Schrag, to Delany Zoss, Mitchell.

The South Dakota School of Mines Scholarship is for a student pursuing a degree at South Dakota School of Mines, with preference given to students who participated in the SD FFA Agriscience Fair. This $1000 scholarship is sponsored by South Dakota School of Mines. This year’s recipient is: James Bame, Madison Central.

South Dakota Corn Utilization Council As a Four Star Partner with the South Dakota FFA Foundation, South Dakota Corn Utilization Council sponsors four $500 scholarships. This year’s recipients, pictured with Amanda Bechen from SD Corn Utilization Council are:

• Brielle Wettlaufer, Howard
• Madisyn Raymond, Ethan
• Dallas Stoltenberg, Northwestern Area
• Lukas VanderMay, Philip

Twin Cities Region Northland Ford Scholarships As a Distinguished Star Partner with the South Dakota FFA Foundation, Twin Cities Region Northland Ford sponsors four $500 scholarships. This year’s recipients are:

• Madison Lauck, McCook Central
• Kylie Mockler, Beresford
• Emery Pearson, Tri-Valley
• Adrianna Ratigan, Northwestern Area

Bayer Scholarships As a Four Star Partner with the South Dakota FFA Foundation, Bayer sponsors four $500 scholarships. This year’s recipients are:

• Ava Sieverding, McCook Central
• Connor May, Brookings
• Braxton Jongeling, Estelline
• Kayla Jensen, Beresford

CHS Foundation Scholarships As a Four Star Partner with the South Dakota FFA Foundation, the CHS Foundation sponsors four $500 scholarships. This year’s recipients, pictured with Jennifer Johnson, CHS Foundation (left to right) are:

• Brooklyn Rische, Redfield
• Wyatt Lesmeister, Belle Fourche
• Jason Zeeb, Bridgewater-Emery
• Taya Kristine, Belle Fourche

Farmers Mutual of Nebraska Scholarships As a Four Star Partner with the South Dakota FFA Foundation, the Farmers Mutual of Nebraska sponsors four $500 scholarships. This year’s recipients are:

• Claire Hofer, Freeman
• Joseph Grady, McCook Central
• Gage Anderson, Lemmon
• Abbie Chase, McCook Central

Star Partner Scholarships Funded through the South Dakota FFA Foundation Star partner program, these $500 scholarships are sponsored by Bayer, Farmers Mutual of Nebraska, CHS Foundation, SD Corn Utilization Council, Farm Credit Services of America, First National Bank in Sioux Falls, and Agtegra.  Recipients are:

• Josie Johnson, Buffalo Christian
• Colton Stiefvater, McCook Central
• Madilynn VonEye, Kimball
• Lydia Main, Belle Fourche
• Mikalyn Kelly, Brookings
• William Kreth, Ethan
• Preston Singrey, Arlington

Minnehaha County Farm Bureau Scholarship is for graduating seniors majoring in any field of agriculture at a South Dakota postsecondary school. This $1000 scholarship is provided by the Minnehaha County Farm Bureau, as a special project of the SD FFA Foundation.

• Emily Walz, Parkston
• Bryce Larson, Sanborn Central Woonsocket
• Avery Zeisler, Gregory County

Continuing Agriculture Education Scholarships assist students currently studying agricultural education at South Dakota State University as they continue their pursuit in a career as an ag teacher.  They are made possible through funding provided by SD FFA Star partners: Twin City Region Northland Ford, CHS Foundation, SD Corn Utilization Council, Bayer, Farmers Mutual of Nebraska, Agtegra, Farm Credit Services of America, BankWest, Butler Machinery, Dacotah Bank, First National Bank of Sioux Falls, First Dakota National Bank, C & B Equipment, RDO Equipment, Macksteel Farm & Ranch Equipment, Prairie Grain Partners, and Pioneer-Corteva as a special project of the SD FFA Foundation. Recipients are:

Student Teaching Scholarships:

• Meta Tewes; Jackson, MN
• Kaylee Steele; Lewiston MN
• Allison Britton
• Karley Mills; Storm Lake, IA
• Sidney Peterson
• Katelyn Maloney

Agriculture Education Scholarships:

• Katelyn Zeug; Lucan, MN
• Clare Rennie; Blooming Prairie, MN
• Elizabeth Sattler; Emerson, NE
• Abigail Otto; Ocheyedan, IA
• Elizabeth Will; Estelline, SD
• Riata Bultje; Andes Central, SD
• Hadlee Peterson; Gering, NE

Post-Secondary Ag Scholarships are for students currently studying any area of agriculture at a SD postsecondary school. They are made possible through funding provided by SD FFA Star partners Twin City Region Northland Ford, CHS Foundation, SD Corn Utilization Council, Bayer, Farmers Mutual of Nebraska, Agtegra, Farm Credit Services of America, BankWest, Butler Machinery, Dacotah Bank, First National Bank of Sioux Falls, First Dakota National Bank, C & B Equipment, RDO Equipment, Macksteel Farm & Ranch Equipment, Prairie Grain Partners, and Pioneer-Corteva as a special project of the SD FFA Foundation. Recipients are pictured with SD

• Elliot Hendrix; Piedmont
• Megan Stiefvater; Salem, SD
• Jordan VanDeStroet; Fairview, SD
• Raesa Zelinsky; Brookings, SD
• Kelsey Vockrodt; Hartford, SD
• Tyler Groenwold, Humboldt, SD

WLC Scholarships are sponsored by the CHS Foundation as a special project of the the South Dakota FFA Foundation to aid high school members in attending the FFA Washington Leadership Conference in Washington DC. Recipients of these $1000 scholarships are:

• Cash Martinez, Bridgewater-Emery
• Sage Voegele, Parker
• Kaylee Klinkhammer, McCook Central
• Ava Kerner, Gregory County

April 3-5, 2025:

South Dakota FFA Proficiency Winners Recognized

South Dakota FFA members were recognized at the 97th South Dakota State FFA Convention for excellence in developing career-specific skills through their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) Proficiency projects.

The FFA Agricultural Proficiency Awards recognize members who have developed their skills and abilities related to employment, internships, apprenticeships and their future careers at agribusiness or agriculture-related organizations. There are over 40 Proficiency areas for FFA members to participate in. The results are as follows:

Agricultural Communications is sponsored by the Tri-State Neighbor.

1. Hayden Hofer, Bridgewater-Emery
2. Cash Lehman, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Mallory Gant, Platte-Geddes

Agricultural Education is sponsored by Dr. Lon and Mary Moeller (Dr. Lon Moeller pictured).

1. Lacie Weber, Howard
2. Elena Andrews, Beresford
3. Bobbi Eide, Gettysburg

 Agricultural Mechanics Design & Fabrication is sponsored by Cammack Ranch Supply.

1. Keagan Kettwig, Parker
2. Gabriel Stern, Brookings
3. Holden Wollmann, Bridgewater-Emery

Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Titan Machinery, C&B Equipment, Grossenburg Implement and Sitework Specialist.

1. Mason Jacobson, Howard
2. Reece Gerlach, West Central
3. Brady Braaten, Tri-Valley

Agricultural Processing is sponsored by the SD Soybean Processors LLC and SDSU Dairy and Food Science Department (Londa VanderWal Nwadike pictured).

1. Austin Severson, Howard
2. Abbie Chase, McCook Central
3. Dylan Wollman, Bridgewater-Emery

Agricultural Sales (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Legend Seeds, Inc.

1. Ava Sieverding, McCook Central

Agricultural Sales (Placement) is sponsored by M&M Cattle Services and SD Aviation Association.

1. Isabella Jimenez, McCook Central
2. Ethan Koopman, Tri-Valley
3. Noah Severson, Howard

Agricultural Services is sponsored by On Target Agency and Loehr Horse Care.

1. Josie Johnson, Buffalo Christian
2. Mikalyn Kelly, Brookings
3. James Kahnke, Florence

Agriscience Research – Animal Systems is sponsored by the CHS Foundation (Jen Johnson pictured).

1. Colton Stiefvater, McCook Central
2. Atlee Olson, Belle Fourche
3. Kelsey Vockrodt, West Central

Agriscience Research – Integrated Systems is sponsored by Terry Jaspers and Valley Queen Cheese.

1. Paul Kaffar, McCook Central
2. Zoe Dissing, Tri-Valley
3. Addison Ecklein, McCook Central

Agriscience Research – Plant Systems is sponsored by SoDak Labs, Inc. ( Christy Sternhagen pictured).

1. Alexa Pulse, McCook Central

Beef Production (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Stewart Charolais, Vedvei Charolais, Renovo Seed, and SD Shorthorn Association.

1. Ireland McAreavey, Tri-Valley
2. Cash Lehrman, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Caden Phelps, Arlington

Beef Production (Placement) is sponsored by the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association and the Blair Brothers.

1. Ryan Blagg, McCook Central
2. Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central
3. Dylan McGregor, McCook Central

Dairy Production (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Associated Milk Producers, Inc (Brian Saarie pictured).

1. Skyler Plucker Lennox-Sundstrom
2. Brityn Davies, Lake Preston
3. Lauren Klitzke, McCook Central

Dairy Production (Placement) is sponsored by Associated Milk Producers, Inc. (Brian Saarie pictured)

1. Blaze Klitzke, McCook Central
2. Paige Haase, Parker
3. Aiden Healy, West Central

Diversified Agricultural Production is sponsored by Sioux Nation Ag, Kevin and Amber Blagg, and Blane and Liz Osterday.

1. Cash Lehman, Bridgewater Emery
2. Elana Andrews, Beresford
3. Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central

Diversified Crop Production (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Agtegra Cooperative.

1. Ridge Roduner, Wessington Springs
2. Jason Zeeb, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Thomas Halverson, Howard

Diversified Horticulture is sponsored by the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition (Cindy Zenk pictured).

1. Kaylee Klinkhammer, McCook Central
2. Kenasyn Johnson, West Central

Diversified Livestock Production is sponsored by McFleeg Inc.

1. Kylie Mockler, Beresford
2. Caden Phelps, Arlington
3. Delaney Zoss, Mitchell

Environmental Science & Natural Resources Management is sponsored by South Dakota Association of Conservation Districts (Matt Eichacker pictured) and Site Work Specialists, Inc.

2. Luke Horstman, McCook Central

Equine Science (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by Amani Reiners – Tim Anderson and Kim Niven of Milbank.

1. Taten Twedt, Beresford
2. Josie Nold, Brookings
3. Elle Goehring, Parkston

Equine Science (Placement) is sponsored by Scott Cammack, Dawn Nagel (pictured), Susan Stoterau (pictured), and Webster FFA.

1. Shayda Ness, Kimball
2. Taya Wettlaufer, Howard
3. Cash Martinez, Bridgewater-Emery

Fiber and/or Oil Crop Production is sponsored by SD Soybean Research and Promotion Council

1. Briella Wettlaufer, Howard
2. Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central
3. Ridge Roduner, Wessington Springs

Forage Production is sponsored by Kuecker Seed Farm, Inc. of Webster (Amy Kuecker pictured).

1. Jason Zeeb, Bridgewater-Emery
2. Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central

Forest Management and Products is sponsored by the SD FFA Foundation.

1. Lawden Haak, Howard
2. Daraby Boresma, SBA

Fruit Production is sponsored by myfruitsale.com (Lynn Stoneking pictured).

1. Isabella Smithback, Harrisburg
2. Luke Larson, Wessington Springs
3. Renee Uberty, McCook Central

Goat Production is sponsored by Hamilton Farms of Hitchcock.

1. Carley Crist, Beresford
2. Cash Martinez, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Ryan Blagg, McCook Central

Grain Production is sponsored by Dakota Mill and Grain Inc. and the South Dakota Wheat Commission.

1. Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central
2. Jason Zeeb, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Lauren Roling, McCook Central

Home and Community Development is sponsored by the Beal Family.

1. Katrina Thon, Bridgewater-Emery
2. Vivian Keospell, McCook Central
3. Breana Zapp, McCook Central

Landscape Management is sponsored by FarmHouse Fraternity-SDSU.

1. Avery Alley, McCook Central
2. Nolan Mentele, Howard
3. Daraby Boresma, SBA

Nursery Operations is sponsored by Twin Cities Region Northland Ford Dealers.

1. Macie Weber, Bridgewater-Emery

Outdoor Recreation is sponsored by Jack’s Campers of Mitchell, Central Dakota Guide Service and South Dakota Walleye Charters.

1. Connor May, Brookings
2. Lacie Weber, Howard
3. Robert Hine, Wessington Springs

Poultry Production is sponsored by Josh Johnson (pictured) and the South Dakota Poultry Industries Association.

1. Rachel Brown, Bridgewater-Emery
2. Josie Nold, Brookings
3. Katrina Thon, Bridgewater-Emery

Service Learning is sponsored by Dr. Laura Hasselquist and Toby Uecker.

Sponsor: Toby Uecker and Dr. Laura Hasselquist

1. Lauren Roling, McCook Central
2. Katrina Thon, Bridgewater-Emery

Sheep Production is sponsored by the Newell Ram Sale and Rufus & Patty DeZeeuw.

1. Josie Nold, Brookings
2. Melanie Calmus, Howard
3. Carissa Scheel, Wessington Springs

Small Animal Production and Care is sponsored by Salem Veterinary Service (Mike Stiefvater pictured), SD Veterinary Medical Association, and Robert & Sandy Rennolet.

1. Alyssa Roling, McCook Central
2. Katrina Thon, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Taylor Hawley, Brandon Valley

Specialty Animal Production is sponsored by Wendy Mortenson Agency.

1. Abbie Chase, McCook Central
2. Joseph Kayser, Bridgewater-Emery

Swine Production (Entrepreneurship) is sponsored by the South Dakota Pork Producers Council (Abbey Riemenschneider pictured).

1. Dawson Plagmann, Bridgewater-Emery
2. Addison Fedeler, Howard
3. Caden Phelps, Arlington

Swine Production (Placement) is sponsored by GroMaster (Marvin Wastell pictured), Kevin and Sandy Ortberg, Wally & Kathy Knock.

1. Elena Andrews, Beresford
2. Melanie Calmus, Howard
3. Chase Jones, Tri-Valley

Turf Grass Management is sponsored by Renovo Seed.

1. Gracie Pedersen, Tri-Valley
2. Karlee Klinkhammer, McCook Central
3. Isaac Boden, Beresford

Vegetable Production is sponsored by Clark and Lyla Hanson in memory of Bill and Stella Hanson.

1. Bobbi Eide, Gettysburg
2. Ava Couser, Brookings
3. Parker Burke, Bridgewater-Emery

Veterinary Science is sponsored by Salem Veterinary Service (Mike Stiefvater pictured).

1. Hope Baysinger, Mitchell
2. Karmen Iverson, Chester
3. Colton Stiefvater, McCook Central

Wildlife Production and Management is sponsored by Craig (pictured) and Maure Weinkauf.

1. Joseph Grady, McCook Central
2. Korbin Shumaker, Howard
3. Kennedy Nemitz, Brookings

April 3-5, 2025:

Members Shine in FFA Career Development Events

BROOKINGS, S.D. – FFA members are preparing for agriculture careers, learning the role agriculture plays in feeding and clothing the world, and looking for opportunities to grow the industry.  FFA’s Career Development Events are built around ag industry careers, expose members to many of the opportunities and needs in the agriculture sector, and enable them to develop and refine their abilities to critically evaluate, effectively communicate and ultimately, succeed in future careers.

One of the hallmarks of agricultural education and the FFA is the opportunity to showcase skills learned in classrooms and spotlighted through competitive events.  It is a source of pride and students look forward to the state-level events each year to determine who will represent South Dakota at the national level in the fall. This year 2,300 South Dakota FFA members competed in 15 Career Development Events at the State FFA Convention. Congrats to our state Career Development Event winners:

Agricultural Business Management

Awards are sponsored by Rufus and Patty DeZeeuw and the team travel scholarship is sponsored by Rufus & Patty DeZeeuw, FarmHouse Fraternity-SDSU, Leisinger Farm, and Kyle & Jody Peterson. Kyle & Jody Peterson also sponsored an iPad for the 1^st place individual.

1st place team: Ethan; Advisor Susan Roudabush. Team members: Coltyn Raymond, Madisyn Raymond, William Kreth.

2nd: Willow Lake

3rd: Elkton

Top Individuals:

1. Brooklyn Boersma, Elkton
2. Coltyn Raymond, Ethan
3. Madisyn Raymond, Ethan

Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems

Awards and drills for each of the top 10 individuals sponsored by the CHS Foundation (pictured) and the team travel scholarship is sponsored by CHS Foundation, Grossenburg Implement, and the Ketelhut Family

1st place team: Brookings; Advisors Josh Johnson and Michelle Dykstra. Team members: Landin Tucker, Gabriel Stern, Tane Friedrich, Miles Gerlach

2nd: Sunshine Bible Academy

3rd: Harrisburg

Top Individuals:

1. Jackson Schlimmer, Sioux Valley
2. Cody Wiik, Milbank
3. Landin Tucker, Brookings

Agronomy

Awards are sponsored by Kurt (pictured) & Kathy Stiefvater and the team travel scholarship is sponsored by SD Agribusiness Association; the Croplan by WinField United; De & Mike Johnson in Memory of Walt Johnson; Hoegemeyer Hybrids; Simplot; Steven Zemlicka in Honor of Stan and Carol Gage

1st place team: McCook Central; Advisor Terry Rieckman. Team members: Kaylee Klinkhammer, Avery Alley, Karlie Stiefvater, Karlee Klinkhammer

2nd: Wessington Springs

3rd: Hot Springs

Top Individuals:

1. Robert Hine, Wessington Springs
2. Kaylee Klinkhammer, McCook Central
3. Briella Wettlaufer, Howard

Dairy Cattle Evaluation

Awards sponsored by SD Division of the Midwest Dairy Association and the team travel scholarship is sponsored by the Richard Lauck Family, Ash Grove Dairy, Sharp’s Inc. and Victory Farms.

1st Place Team: Beresford; Advisor Bridget Twedt.  Team members: Elena Andrews, Grace Norling, Allie Westra, Capri Mullinix

2nd: Sioux Valley

3rd: McCook Central

Top Individuals:

1. Elena Andrews, Beresford
2. Brityn Davies, Lake Preston
3. Ava Couser, Brookings

Floriculture

Award are sponsored by Dr. David Graper, Wendy Mortenson Agency, and Gettysburg FFA and the team travel scholarship is sponsored by Dr. David Graper, Dan & Sheri Kahnke. Supplies for the event were sponsored by North American Wholesale Florists and the SD Florist Association.

1st Place Team: Brookings; Advisors Josh Johnson and Michelle Dykstra. Team members: Kenzie Steinhauer, Mikalyn Kelly, Madeline Enderson, Katie Marshall

2nd: Freeman

3rd: Parkston

Top Individuals:

1. Brylee Wallman, Miller
2. Ema Dissing, Tri-Valley
3. Whisper Apple, Garretson

Food Science and Technology

Awards sponsored by Valley Queen Cheese and the team travel scholarships are sponsored by Dan and Sheri Kahnke, Prairie Farms Cheese Division; Aurora Cooperative, Hunter Eide, Agropur Inc-Cheese and Whey Products.

1st Place Team: Harrisburg; Advisors Tara Fastert, Josh Christiansen, and Molly Roemen. Team members: Katelyn Wingert, Hannah Fryee, Leia Rombough, Isabelle Carlson

2nd: Belle Fourche

3rd: Freeman

 Top Individuals:

1. Hunter Reede, Millbank
2. Katelyn Wingert, Harrisburg
3. Jazlyn Olson, Belle Fourche

Horse Evaluation

Awards are sponsored by K Bar J Leather of Newell. The travel scholarship is sponsored by K Bar J Leather, Rodney Yost Horsemanship, and Wendy Mortenson Agency.

1st Place Team: Brookings; Advisors Josh Johnson and Michelle Dykstra. Team members: Josie Nold, Aubrey Underwood, Ava Benson, Madelyn Myers

2nd: Parkston

3rd: Bon Homme

Top Individuals:

1. Josie Nold, Brookings
2. Bailey Schwagel, Milbank
3. Kenley Henke, Parkston

Meats Evaluation:

Awards are sponsored by Smithfield Foods and the travel scholarship is sponsored by Smithfield Foods, Tri Valley Alumni (Heidi Zwinger pictured) and The Meathouse.

1st Place Team: Brookings; Advisors Josh Johnson and Michelle Dykstra. Team members: Connor May, Kade Nelson, Ella Feucht, Carter Stadler

2nd: Tri-Valley

3rd: Hitchcock Tulare

Top Individuals:

1. Connor May, Brookings
2. Kade Nelson, Brookings
3. Kendall Mcarbavey, Tri-Valley

Livestock Evaluation:

Awards are sponsored by SD Pork Producers Council. The travel scholarship is sponsored by Dakotaland Feeds, Drs. Travis and Meagan Hoffman, Kimball Livestock Exchange LLC and Beef Logic.

1st Place Team: Winner; Advisor Tracy Childress. Team members: Roper Moore, Evan Littau, Austin Vanderwerff, Rustin Schroeder

2nd: Beresford

3rd: Tri-Valley

Top Individuals (Abbey Riemenschneider, SDPPC pictured):

1. Chance Blume, Chamberlain
2. Creighten Werning, Bridgewater-Emery
3. Aidan Grupe, Watertown Area

Milk Quality & Products:

Awards are sponsored by Agropur Inc – Cheese and Whey Products. The travel scholarship is sponsored by Bel Brands USA, The Justin Maass Family, Agropur Inc, and Heidi (pictured) and Mark Zwinger.

First Place Team: McCook Central; Advisor Terry Rieckman. Team members: Madison Lauck, Joseph Grady, Julianne Grady, Lauren Roling

2nd: Willow Lake

3rd: Langford FFA

Top Individuals:

1. Madison Lauck, McCook Central
2. Lizzie Gustafson, Langford
3. Joseph Grady, McCook Central

Natural Resources

Awards are sponsored by the SD Grassland Coalition. The travel scholarship is sponsored by Jeff VanderWilt, John Lentz and the SD Grassland Coalition.

1st Place Team: Tri-Valley; Advisor Tanner Peterson. Team members: Chase Jones, Carson Sanders, Bracken Sharpe, Gavin Crosby

2nd: Harrisburg

3rd: Brookings

Top Individuals:

1. Paul Werner, Brookings
2. Chase Jones, Tri-Valley
3. Carter Oyener, Harrisburg

Nursery  Landscape:

Awards are sponsored by Midwest STIHL. The travel scholarship is sponsored by SODAK Gardens, Northern Plains Landscaping, and the Wendy Mortenson Agency.

1st Place Team:  McCook Central; Advisor Terry Rieckman. Team members: Gavin Kipp, Brooke Heumiller, Ella Deknikker, Addison Ecklein

2nd: Parkston

3rd: Montrose

Top Individuals:

1. Gavin Kipp, McCook Central
2. Brooke Heumiller, McCook Central
3. Ella Deknikker, McCook Central

Poultry:

Awards are sponsored by South Dakota Poultry Industries Association. The travel scholarship is sponsored by South Dakota Poultry Industries Association, Salem Veterinary Service and Dakota Layers LLP.

1st Place Team: Sunshine Bible Academy; Advisor Jason Burma. Team members: James Burma, Katie Kruse, Natasha Appel, Daraby Boersma

2nd: Hot Springs

3rd: Parker

Top Individuals:

1. Lyzzie Rapp, Hot Springs
2. Saige Lessman, Parker
3. James Burma, Sunshine Bible Academy

Vet Science:

Awards are sponsored by Susan A. Stoterau DVM and Alice Harty DVM. The travel scholarship is sponsored by SD Veterinary Medical Association, Salem Veterinary Service, Susan A. Stoterau DVM and Alice Harty DVM.

1st Place Team: Mitchell; Advisor Karen Roudabush. Team members: Hope Baysinger, Delaney Zoss, Emree Fergen, Ashlyn Roudabush

2nd: Miller

3rd: Howard

Top Individuals:

1. Hope Baysinger, Mitchell
2. Emma Fritzsche, Miller
3. Delaney Zoss, Mitchell

Range Plant ID:

Sponsored by the SDSU Range Science Club

1st Place Team: Sturgis; Advisor Stran Holben. Team Members: Jackson Cammack, Ellie Storm, Aydan Rhodes, Garrett Rohloff

2nd: Lemmon

3rd: Kadoka

Top Individuals:

1. Jackson Cammack, Sturgis
2. Ellie Storm, Stugis
3. Jessica Wahlert, Hot Springs

April 3-5, 2025:

Williams Family Receives “FFA Family of the Year” Award

The Mary and late Myron Williams family, of Wall, received the South Dakota FFA Foundation’s 2025 “Family of the Year” award. The award honoring the family’s active involvement in the South Dakota FFA/Agriculture Education program was presented April 4th at the State FFA Convention in Brookings. The Williams family includes Mary and the late Myron Williams, their children and spouses, and grandchildren: Marty and Rhonda (Jaicee, Stran, Cooper Jo, Laketon and Madison), Monty and Bobbie (Pacey, Lincoln, Pine and Ridlee), and Misty (Williams) and Jeff Mattox (Haydon and Brynley).

Mary and the late Myron Williams were actively involved with the FFA for over fifty years and all three of their children, Marty, Monty and Misty, were officers at the local and district level. Their daughter Misty also served as the 1994-95 South Dakota State FFA Secretary. The family is now three generations strong in the FFA organization.

Myron attended Wall High School but since an FFA program had yet to be established he was unable to be a member. He later attended South Dakota State University and graduated with a degree in animal science business.

During the time Mary grew up, women had not yet actively been participating in FFA, but her brother served as a state officer from 1968-69 and her father was awarded an honorary state degree

“I recognized what an important program FFA was and is and when my children went to school in Wall…they fortunately had an ag program in place,” Mary said. “[We were] supportive of every activity and helped get kids to different contests.”

Mary has served as a judge at the local, regional, and state level for CDE contests whenever needed and serves as a member of the Elevate Rapid City Ag Committee. Her husband Myron was also a strong leader in multiple organizations including his work as Pennington Farm Bureau director and agriculture advocate with travels taking him as far as Washington, D.C. to spread the message. Together the couple was actively involved in South Dakota Farm Bureau (SDFB) and the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA).

“He walked the talk,” Mary said.

In 1992 and 1994 Myron and Mary respectively were awarded the honorary chapter FFA degree in Wall. Three years later they were given the honorary state FFA degree together in recognition for their continued support of statewide FFA while their daughter was a state FFA officer.

Dani Herring previously served as the Wall FFA advisor and nominated the family for state level recognition. “The entire time I taught in Wall as the Ag teacher, Myron and Mary were huge supporters of the program.” Herring said. “They donate[d] their time and money to making FFA a successful organization not only here, but in the whole of District 5.”

Their children, Marty, Monty and Misty, all received State FFA Degrees as high school seniors in ‘92, ‘94, and ‘96. Monty and Marty’s supervised agricultural experiences are still in operation today as they are the current owners of Williams Ranch.

Misty became active in Nebraska as an FFA supporter while working for Prime Pursuit which focuses on supplying Walmart with consistently choice beef.

“Bottom line, they all stayed in agriculture,” Mary said. “That was definitely a goal my husband and I had forever. If they wanted to come back to agriculture, we would work with leadership programs for young people that we could bring them back to agriculture.”

In addition to  FFA, they both worked with leadership programs for young people such as 4-H and South Dakota Ag and Rural Leadership to build agriculture advocates.

Even their spouses have been involved with FFA, Monty’s wife Bobbi (Amdahl) was a member of the Woonsocket FFA chapter and received her State Degree and was the Star Greenhand of her chapter. Marty’s wife Rhonda (McDonnell) was a member and officer in Wall and was active while in high school.

These families started a third generation of FFA members including Marty and Rhonda’s children Laketon, Cooper, Jaicee, (former Wall FFA members), and Madison (teacher at Wall and FFA supporter).

Grandchildren Jaicee and Cooper were active in the Wall FFA and represented South Dakota at the National FFA Convention in the Ag Issues CDE in 2017. Currently, grandson Haydon and granddaughter Brnley are beginning their FFA journey in Nebraska as a freshman and eighth grader.

“This family deserves to be FFA Family of the Year, they are passionate advocates of my program in Wall and help wherever they are needed.” Herring said. “They promote agriculture in every way and will continue to do so in the future.”

Courtesy photo.

April 3-5, 2025:

FFA members package 55,728 meals during Living to Serve Day

The blue corduroy jacket is a familiar symbol of the FFA organization, worn as part of official dress during most FFA activities. On April 3^rd at the South Dakota FFA convention in Brookings, as part of a SD FFA Living to Serve Day, members removed their jackets and rolled up their sleeves to help stop hunger in South Dakota.

Working with industry and Meals of Hope, this South Dakota FFA Foundation hands-on project combats hunger.  SD FFA members measured, poured, sealed, and boxed 55,728 meals in assembly line fashion. Members stopped in between workshops and competitive events throughout convention and left the event knowing that by giving a few minutes of their time they would make a significant difference in the life of a person less fortunate than themselves.

The Meals of Hope food packages are a hearty Chicken flavored Rice & Vegetable Soup meal.  All of the 55,728 meals were donated to Feeding South Dakota based in Sioux Falls and the Feeding Brookings food pantry these meals will be distributed across our state, Jennifer Stensaas, Community Engagement Manager for Feeding South Dakota attended and expressed great appreciation for the event, the members’ hard work, and SD FFA’s food donation. In addition, when asked how long the supply might last, Jennifer stated that during high need times it may only last 30-60 days.

Sandy Osterday, SD FFA Foundation board president and event chairman added, “The South Dakota FFA and FFA Foundation are proud to be able to have a part in providing quality food to families in need across our state. We are grateful for our sponsors who believe in our mission of Living to Serve. “

The South Dakota FFA Foundation received event funding through grants provided by Global Harvest Foods, Beck’s Hybrids, Farmhouse Fraternity – SDSU, and Corteva Agriscience’s, Pioneer seed team, who also provided area staff that were great hands-on help during the event.

April 3-5, 2025:

BROOKINGS, S.D. — The National Chapter Award is the highest honor an FFA chapter can receive and recognizes chapters that actively implement the mission and strategies of the FFA. Top chapters were recognized at 97th SD FFA Convention, for their outstanding accomplishments. Chapters recognized have developed an active Program of Activities and conducted meaningful events. For the overall state award, a chapter must complete at least 15 activities: one for each of the five quality standards in each of the three divisions – Growing Leaders, Building Communities, and Strengthening Agriculture, and meet the minimum requirements outlined in the National Quality FFA Chapter Standards. Official results were:

Superior Chapters

Arlington, Beresford, Bridgewater-Emery, Bookings, Gregory County, Garretson, Harrisburg, Howard, Tea Area, Viborg Hurley.

Chapters develop technical, human relations, and decision-making skills and promote the wellbeing of students, in the Growing Leaders area. Activities develop a positive attitude toward lifelong learning experiences and promote student involvement. Awards for Growing Leaders are sponsored by Sandra Nelson, and the winners were:

1st       Arlington

2nd      Bridgewater-Emery

3rd       Howard

Chapters conduct activities to preserve natural resources and improve the welfare and well-being of the community, in the Building Communities area. Activities encourage members to become active in the community. Awards for Building Communities are sponsored by Sandra Nelson, and the winners were:

1st       Brookings

2nd      Howard

3rd       Harrisburg

Chapters conduct activities to develop and maintain positive relations among FFA and community leaders and increase agricultural education and membership, in the Strengthening Agriculture area. Activities are also created to enhance safety, promote agriculture, and improve the distribution of food. Awards in this area are sponsored by Wyatt and Zana DeJong, and the winners were:

1st       Bridgewater-Emery

2nd      Beresford

3rd       Tea Area

The overall National Chapter Award is the highest honor a chapter can receive and holds value outside of the FFA. The award is sponsored by Reinke Gray Wealth Management and Wyatt and Zana DeJong, and the winners were:

1st       Brookings

2nd      Bridgewater-Emery

3rd       Howard

April 3-5, 2025:

The State FFA Degree, the highest degree conferred by the South Dakota FFA, was presented to 324 agricultural education students at the 2025 South Dakota FFA Convention. Certain students rise to the top as star finalists. These individuals spend countless hours working on their projects and enhancing their potential for future jobs by gaining hands-on experience and developing technical skills. After a review of the students’ supervised agricultural experience program and records, four finalists were selected as the best of the best in each category prior to state convention. The finalists interviewed in front of a panel and the most outstanding were selected to be the State Star Farmer, Star in Agribusiness, Star in Placement and Star in Agri-Science. Each State Star will receive a $500 cash award and the finalists each receive $150. Congratulations to the SD FFA Stars!

The results are as follows:

State Star Farmer – Colton Stiefvater, McCook Central sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America. His advisor is Mr. Terry Rieckman

State Star in Ag Placements – Dylan McGregor, McCook Central sponsored by The Dan and Karen Streff family. His advisor is Mr. Terry Rieckman

State Star in Agriscience – Lauren Roling, McCook Central sponsored by Glacial Lakes Energy. Her advisor is Mr. Terry Rieckman

State Star in Agribusiness – Skyler Plucker, Lennox-Sundstrom sponsored by Farm Credit Services, Jarod Weber, sponsor, pictured. His advisor is Mrs. Kasey Trocke

Finalists and winners in all 4 areas are as follows:

Star Farmer finalists – sponsor Farm Credit Services of America; Ireland McAreavey, Tri-Valley; Josie Nold, Brookings; Jason Zeeb, Bridgewater-Emery

Star in Ag Placement finalists – sponsor, The Dan and Karen Streff family; Mason Jacobson, Howard; Ridge Roduner, Wessington Springs; Brody Stenger, Sioux Falls CTE;

Star in Agriscience finalists – sponsored by Glacial Lakes Energy: Joseph Grady, McCook Central; Colten Stiefvater, McCook Central; Karlie Stiefvater, McCook Central

Star in Agribusiness finalists – sponsor Jarod Weber, Farm Credit Services: Isaac Boden, Beresford; Abbie Chase, McCook Central; Talen Hazel, Beresford

District Star Greenhands are sophomores who were recognized for an outstanding start to their Supervised Agriculture Experience Project as being top in each of their FFA districts. These awards were sponsored by Central Farmers Cooperative.

District Star Greenhands are:  District winners are: District One: Keaton Zubke, Florence FFA; District Two: Korbin Shumaker, Howard FFA; District Three: Clayton Pankratz, Parker FFA; District Four: Tucker Peterson; McCook Central FFA District Five: Ray Sanders, Hot Springs FFA; District Six: Rylee Knock, Hitchcock-Tulare FFA; District Seven: Kendall McAreavey, Tri Valley FFA; District Eight: Ayla Bauer, Lemmon FFA.

April 3-5, 2025:

Six South Dakota FFA members were elected to serve as the 2025-2026 South Dakota FFA Officer team at the 97^th South Dakota FFA Convention, April 3-5, 2025. As state officers, they will represent more than 6,437 South Dakota FFA members.

The 2025-2026 South Dakota FFA Officer team includes: President Tyler Strasser, Lennox-Sundstrom; Vice President Josie Nold, Brookings; Secretary Kate Meyer, Sisseton; Treasurer Elena Andrews, Beresford; Reporter Ireland McAreavey, Tri Valley and Sentinel Skyler Plucker, Lennox-Sundstrom.

The state FFA officer team will travel across the state sharing their passion for agriculture, leadership, and service. South Dakota FFA officers present workshops and conferences across the state and challenge FFA members to serve their communities and the agriculture industry. State Officers advocate for the agriculture industry at various events including South Dakota FFA State Fair at the Ag Adventure Center as well as serve as delegates to the National FFA Convention this fall.