Alvaro Barros

Cedar Crest Continues 30+ Year Support Of 4-H

The Wisconsin 4-H Foundation recently recognized partner Cedar Crest Ice Cream as a top 4-H donor. Acknowledged as a Platinum Clover supporter, Cedar Crest Ice Cream contributed $10,000 to support Wisconsin 4-H programs. Cedar Crest Ice Cream has been an ardent supporter of Wisconsin 4-H for over 30 years.

“We are proud to give back by supporting and empowering youth development, through our partnership with the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation,” says President Ken Kohlwey. “The Wisconsin 4-H Foundation has a significant impact on youth personal growth and leadership. We are honored to take part in cultivating the next generation.”

Since 1914, Wisconsin 4-H has helped young people develop the skills required for a changing world. Growing out of a rich history of agricultural clubs, today’s 4-H has expanded to include STEM, healthy living, and communications.

“Cedar Crest helps 4-H create cutting-edge, relevant programs for young people to learn real-world skills that will prepare them for the challenges of today and tomorrow,” says Wisconsin 4-H Foundation Executive Director Brenda Scheider.

Nearly 150,000 youth participate in the Wisconsin 4-H program each year, and more than 22,000 volunteers support the program.

by Alvaro Barros

Miller Earns National Recognition

Melanie Miller, a widely recognized leader in Wisconsin’s 4-H community, has achieved a significant milestone in her career: induction into the National 4-H Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony took place in Boise, Idaho, where Miller joined 15 others in the class of 2024. Known for her dedication and contributions, Miller’s impact has resonated with youth, families, and educators across Wisconsin.

Reflecting on her career, Miller remarked, “It’s an honor to see how 4-H continues to foster life skills that kids carry forward.” She emphasized the lasting value of the 4-H program, especially in teaching youth the importance of teamwork, goal-setting, and connecting across generations.

Miller’s journey began in Barron County, where she was raised in a family with over 100 years of 4-H involvement. Her commitment to 4-H grew as she pursued education and extension work. She eventually served as a 4-H agent in Sauk and Dunn Counties. “My roots in Barron County set the foundation,” she shared. “From my earliest days, 4-H was a part of my life.”

After completing her master’s degree, Miller joined Wisconsin’s state 4-H staff. She took on various roles that evolved alongside changes in extension programs. “Initially, I focused on agricultural projects. Later I moved into personnel support and even taking an interim directorship at our state 4-H Camp,” Miller explained. “Each role taught me something unique and gave me a deeper appreciation for our mission.”

Miller’s contributions extended far beyond administrative roles. Known for her involvement in state fairs, livestock judging, and community events, Miller became a familiar face at 4-H gatherings statewide. She highlighted her involvement as meaningful experiences. “There’s something special about watching young people excel in showmanship — it’s a skill they carry for life.”

Now inducted into the Hall of Fame, Miller shared advice for new 4-H agents, especially those unfamiliar with 4-H’s long-standing traditions. “A community 4-H club is a unique environment where young people work with peers and mentors of all ages. It’s where they build confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills that they’ll use forever,” she emphasized.

by Alvaro Barros

Wisconsin Student Elected As National FFA Officer

Wisconsin has a new National FFA Officer! Mary Schrieber from East Troy was selected as the Central Region Vice President at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis. She will help lead the organization for the next year.

The six officers were selected from 37 candidates vying for the honor. Candidates participated in an extensive interview process before the selection.

• Thaddeus Bergschneider of Illinois was elected national president.
• Luke Jennings of Ohio was elected national secretary.
• Caroline Groth of Kentucky was elected eastern region vice president.
• Abigale Jacobsen of California was elected western region vice president.
• Jack Lingenfelter of Georgia was elected southern region vice president.
• Mary Schrieber of Wisconsin was elected central region vice president. She is a former member of the East Troy FFA Chapter.

Throughout their year of service to the National FFA Organization, the officers will interact with business and industry leaders; thousands of members and teachers; corporate partners; government and education officials; state leaders; the general public; and more.

The team will lead personal growth and leadership training conferences for FFA members throughout the country and help set policies to guide the future of FFA and the next generation of leaders.

More Wisconsin Winners

Agricultural proficiency awards honor FFA members who, through Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), have developed specialized skills that they can apply toward their future careers. Students compete in areas ranging from agricultural communications to wildlife management. Proficiency awards are also recognized at local and state levels and provide recognition to members exploring and becoming established in agricultural career pathways.

Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance – Entrepreneurship Proficiency
Joseph Michael Robinson began his project by changing engine and hydraulic oils, coolant, fuel filters, air filters, cabin air filters, and greasing all machines at A and R Farms. Robinson also runs his own business, where he repairs and restores parts and agricultural machinery, sometimes reselling parts for profit. Through his Supervised Agricultural Experience, Robinson has gained knowledge in billing and finance, time management, and entrepreneurial adaptability. Robinson is a member of the Mineral Point FFA Chapter in Wisconsin and FFA advisor is Mike Robinson.

Seventeen individuals were honored with National FFA’s VIP Citation. The VIP Citation recognizes individuals’ significant contributions to FFA and agricultural education. It honors the dedicated individuals who contribute to the FFA mission of student success through their hard work and cooperation.

Congratulations Michelle Stuttgen of Middleton, Wis. for earning this recognition.

See more Wisconsin winners from the National FFA Convention last week: https://www.midwestfarmreport.com/2024/10/27/wisconsin-ffa-members-earn-national-recognition/

by Alvaro Barros

Wisconsin FFA Members Earn National Recognition

At the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, Wisconsin FFA members earned multiple 2024 National FFA Agricultural Proficiency Awards.

Agricultural proficiency awards recognize FFA members who develop career skills through Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs). Competitions cover areas like agricultural sales, agriscience research, and livestock production, helping students explore agricultural careers. Winners receive local, state, and national recognition for their dedication.

Wisconsin honorees in these categories:

Diversified Agricultural Production – Entrepreneurship/Placement
Kaleb James Ellis from Cochrane Fountain City FFA received recognition for his SAEs. He manages 500 acres of row crops, a 200-head beef operation, 200,000 broilers, and also raises hogs. His advisors, Christine Jumbeck and Deanna Wiersgalla, have supported his extensive efforts.

Agricultural Sales – Placement
Jack Schuster from Marshall FFA was honored for his role at Ace Hardware, where he progressed from managing the paint department to assistant manager. His advisor, Paula Bakken, has guided Schuster as he developed skills in leadership, invoicing, and customer service.

Alumni & Supporter Awards

The National FFA Alumni and Supporters Outstanding State Association Award acknowledges the state association’s outstanding service and achievements in meeting quality standards.

Outstanding FFA Alumni and Supporters State Association Awards
The Wisconsin FFA Alumni and Supporters are highly active in providing year-round support to students and teachers. Sectional representatives play a vital role in maintaining chapters by organizing two informational sectional meetings annually. The association has sponsored 16 students to participate in the Washington Leadership Conference with a total scholarship donation of $9,600. During the alumni state convention, local chapters submit award applications for their local agriculture teacher to earn an award. At the 2024 Alumni Convention, 11 Outstanding Agriculture Educators received honors and cash prizes.

The National FFA Alumni and Supporters Outstanding Achievement Award is the highest award presented to an individual. This is a prestigious honor given to no more than three individuals per year at the national level.

Cheryl Steinbach, Granton FFA Alumni and Supporters chapter, Wisconsin
Steinbach brings three decades of dedicated service to agricultural education. As a lifetime member, her efforts have established invaluable partnerships between Granton FFA Alumni and local businesses, resulting in generous donations and widespread support for FFA chapters across the state. Notably, she established the Francis Steiner Memorial Bowling Tournament, which for the last 12 years has brought in several thousands of dollars to the alumni and supporters chapter. She recently concluded her impactful tenure as the Executive Director for Wisconsin FFA Alumni and Supporters. Cheryl actively participates in national calls, conducts engaging virtual workshops, and provides invaluable mentorship to fellow educators. Her tireless dedication to expanding and sustaining agricultural education programs in Wisconsin has left an indelible mark on numerous FFA activities and events, inspiring positive change and growth.

by Alvaro Barros