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Not a shadow of a doubt that South Dakota FFA is generating leaders eclipsing limitations. Caroline Hansen, Leadership Program Manager for the association, highlights that a first step is to “give our young people permission to lead.” Kate Meyer, the current FFA State Secretary, reminds us that the “backing and encouragement” of ag teachers propels FFA members forward. While the best ag teachers may not give a hoot about accolades, FFA rewards their motivational wisdom with a Golden Owl Big Check.

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Today’s captivating conversationalist and committed conservationist is Jessica Michalski. Her teen years picking rock put her on her career path. Now she’s rockin’ her current position, Acting State Conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Hear how NRCS and likeminded partners provide resources for responsible and profitable land management. Are your cows happy? Maybe treat them to Big Bluestem.

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In Montana, Janelle Booth established an ag leadership program and headed government affairs at MSU. Inevitably, SD cows mooed and wooed her back home. Now Janelle is the CEO of South Dakota Ag and Rural Leadership preparing participants to lead their communities and the state, and make significant contributions to agriculture nationally and globally. Keys to leadership include building relationships and establishing trust (not unlike a mama cow and a porcupine.)