By Scout Nelson
The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation recently hosted its Collegiate Discussion Meet during the annual Leadership, Education, Advocacy, and Promotion Conference held January 30 and 31 in Bemidji, Minnesota. The event brought together college students from across the state to discuss important agricultural issues and demonstrate leadership and communication skills.
Aina Perez, a senior at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, earned first place in the statewide competition. With this win, Perez will represent Minnesota at the American Farm Bureau Federation Collegiate Discussion Meet during the Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Conference scheduled for March 13 to 16 in Portland.
Perez represents the Washington Ramsey County Farm Bureau and is pursuing studies in political science, global studies, sustainable agriculture, and applied economics.
Second place in the competition was awarded to Mary Lanoue, also a student at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Both students showed strong knowledge of agriculture, public policy, and teamwork throughout the event.
Several campuses across Minnesota participated in the Collegiate Discussion Meet during the fall season. Campus level winners included Michael Vetsch and Wyatt Wilson from Ridgewater College, Mason Attig and Conner Tangen from Riverland College, Nathan Goettl and Jonathan Yokiel from South Central College, Lauren Hunt and Shantel Koering from Southwest Minnesota State University, and Cole Sundeen and Stephen McFadzen from the University of Minnesota Crookston.
During the semifinal rounds held on Saturday, students including Hunt, Koering, Lanoue, McFadzen, Perez, Sundeen, Vetsch, and Wilson advanced after strong performances. Lanoue, Perez, Sundeen, and Vetsch moved forward to the final four rounds, where critical thinking and respectful discussion were key evaluation areas.
The Collegiate Discussion Meet plays an important role in developing future agricultural leaders in Minnesota. Students are encouraged to exchange ideas, work together to solve problems, and better understand real world agricultural challenges. In total, six Minnesota campuses hosted discussion meets last fall, with 56 students taking part, reflecting strong interest in agricultural leadership across the state.
Photo Credit: university-of-minnesota
Categories: Minnesota, Education, General