By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota FFA Alumni and Supporters Association announced the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The eight inductees joined 252 members previously honored at the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame. The program remained a partnership between the Minnesota FFA Association, Minnesota FFA Alumni and Supporters, and the Minnesota FFA Foundation.
A selection committee made up of FFA members, alumni, supporters, agricultural educators, and foundation leaders selected the inductees. "The committee evaluates nominees, based on information in the nomination packet, using criteria that emphasize each individual's influence within Minnesota FFA, their commitment to advancing agricultural education, and their substantial service to agriculture and agribusiness," said Steve Olson, co-chair, Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame Committee.
The Minnesota FFA Foundation supported the program through its Star Partners Program. More information about programs and funding opportunities remained available at https://mnffafoundation.org.
FFA continued serving as a national youth organization that supported leadership development, personal growth, and career readiness. The organization reported more than one million student members nationwide. Nearly 15,000 students remained active members of the Minnesota FFA Association. Additional information remained available at https://mnffa.org.
The Hall of Fame Class of 2026 recognized individuals who devoted their careers to agricultural education, leadership development, and community involvement. Inductees represented decades of teaching, mentoring, advocacy, and public service. Their efforts strengthened local FFA chapters, expanded student opportunities, and promoted agriculture education across Minnesota.
The honorees supported classroom learning, guided student leadership programs, organized statewide conferences, and built strong partnerships between schools, communities, and agricultural organizations. Many inductees served on professional boards, provided mentorship to new educators, and helped secure funding to grow FFA programs.
Selection criteria included leadership service, career achievements, FFA involvement at multiple levels, and long-term commitment to agriculture education. The program also considered service to community organizations, support of philanthropic efforts, and promotion of citizenship and leadership skills.
Through these standards, the Minnesota FFA Hall of Fame continued recognizing individuals who made lasting contributions to agriculture education and youth development. The Class of 2026 honored leaders who strengthened Minnesota agriculture and helped shape future generations of agricultural professionals.
Photo Credit: minnesota-ffa
Categories: Minnesota, Education, General