By Scout Nelson
Brad Schloesser was recently honored with the 2024 National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) Outstanding Service Award during the NAAE Convention held from December 3-7 in San Antonio, Texas. This recognition highlights his exceptional contributions to agricultural education and his commitment to fostering leadership in the agriculture industry.
With over two decades of teaching experience in post-secondary agriculture, Schloesser transitioned into leadership roles in southern Minnesota institutions, where he has significantly impacted the development of agricultural education. Throughout his career, he has worked to strengthen partnerships with students, faculty, farmers, agricultural educators, and private industry. His focus has been on enhancing the learning and growth of agricultural professions and consumers. Schloesser is also a passionate advocate for FFA, rural mental health, veterans in farming, and food and natural resource education.
Since December 2022, Schloesser has served as the Executive Director of the Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership (MARL) Program. An alumnus of the program, Schloesser participated in Class XI from 2020 to 2022. The MARL program is designed to develop leadership skills in active and engaged agricultural and rural leaders across Minnesota. Participants of the program come from various backgrounds, including production agriculture, business, civic, and government sectors.
In his previous role as Dean of Agriculture at South Central College in Mankato, Schloesser led faculty development and supported over 650 students annually in Agribusiness and Farm Business Management. He was also instrumental in launching the Minnesota State Southern Agricultural Center of Excellence and played a key role in the development of the National CASE Ag Science Curriculum.
“In life there are many blessings, and from the days I was in high school, I enjoyed a rich education in agriculture coupled with a fun, fulfilling and passion related experiences with the FFA organization, members, and advisors. That led me to a career where I have been blessed to work with people who also are enthused about farming, food, and our natural resources,” said Schloesser. “I have been fortunate to connect with many people during my career in agriculture education. Being recognized for service to the agriculture industry and agriculture education is a humbling honor. Every connection has been a blessing, and I am truly grateful.”
The NAAE Outstanding Service Award is given to individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to agricultural education at various levels. For more information on the MARL program, visit www.MARLProgram.org.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artiemedvedev
Categories: Minnesota, Business