Twenty-one Wisconsin FFA members will advance their agricultural education thanks to over $19,000 in SAE grants. These are awarded by the Wisconsin FFA Foundation
SAE Grants are designed to help students create or enhance their individual SAE project. The grants are made possible through donations from individuals and organizations who support FFA and agricultural education in Wisconsin. These are including Sartori Cheese, Andis Foundation, Crystal Farms, Seneca Foods, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Beck’s Hybrids, Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, and Sloan Implement.
The recipients received up to $1,000 each for their projects which cover a wide range of areas. The areas include animal science, crop production, agribusiness, and food science. These grants will allow students to expand their knowledge and skills in these areas while also gaining valuable hands-on experience.
The 2025 Wisconsin FFA Foundation SAE Grants are awarded in five pathway categories: agricultural education, animal systems, food products & processing systems, plant systems, and power, structural and technical systems. Candidates were chosen based on the level and scope of their SAE project. As well as their financial need, leadership within FFA and their communities, and future plans for their individual projects.
Through SAEs, agricultural students in Wisconsin can apply the concepts they learn in the classroom to real-world situations. As one of the three pillars of the agricultural education model (alongside FFA membership and classroom lessons), SAEs provide students with immersive experiences beyond hypothetical scenarios. The SAE for All initiative has gained momentum across the state, encouraging every agricultural student to embark on an SAE project to better prepare for future career opportunities.
Grant Recipients
Agricultural Education SAE Grant: McKayla Conley, Hartford
Animal Systems SAE Grants: Andrew O’Connor, River Falls; Callie Behling, Edgar; Catherine Kampa, Independence; Danica Stello, Melrose – Mindoro; Ella Jean, Darlington; Emily Hovey, Independence;
Jed Olson, Westby; Josephine Gamroth, Whitehall; Kathryn McGranahan, Darlington; Landen Pinkerton, Valders; Madelyn Melby, Winneconne
Food Products & Processing System SAE Grants: Tonya Alix, Weyauwega – Fremont; Nicholas Oft, Markesan; Colter Rueth, Loyal; Adalyn Howe, Lodi
Plant Systems SAE Grants: Holden McCray, Osseo – Fairchild; Abbigail Janisch, DeForest
Power, Structural, and Technical System SAE Grants: Bryce Gerke, Tomah; Adam Dornacker, Slinger, Kellyn Woodworth, Portage
