National FFA honors Illinois corn leaders

INDIANAPOLIS — IL Corn Executive Director Rodney Weinzierl and Managing Director Jim Tarmann were each awarded the Honorary American FFA Degree during the National FFA Convention & Expo.

This distinguished honor is one of the highest recognitions presented by the National FFA Organization, celebrating individuals who have provided exceptional service to agriculture, agricultural education and the FFA on a national scale.

“Jim Tarmann is more than a supporter. He is a champion of FFA leadership development,” said Mindy Bunselmeyer, Illinois FFA executive director.

“Each year, he is revered by the Illinois FFA leadership team for the profound impact he has on their growth as advocates for agriculture. His service has strengthened the entire organization. His role in their leadership journey is a game changer,” she said.

“Rod’s leadership has directly strengthened FFA’s mission by providing students with real-world experiences that prepare them for careers in agriculture,” she added.

“His efforts have helped shape the next generation of agricultural leaders and advocates, ensuring FFA members have the tools, knowledge, and connections to influence agricultural policy and industry advancements.”

Through the leadership of Weinzierl and Tarmann, and with support from the Illinois corn checkoff, IL Corn has developed an innovative program that helps Illinois FFA leaders apply their agricultural education in real-world settings.

The program enables all Illinois FFA section presidents and the six major state officers to travel to Washington, D.C., where they meet with trade associations, government agencies and decision makers.

These experiences build confidence in the youths while deepening the understanding of agriculture’s role in local communities, in Illinois and in the nation.

Following the program, many student leaders are inspired to pursue internships in Washington or at the Illinois Statehouse in Springfield. They see opportunities for themselves to continue advocating for agriculture and representing farmers at every level of government.

“Building the FFA to D.C. program and leading our future leaders around Washington, D.C., once a year has been the highlight of my career,” Tarmann said.

“On the last day, we gather with students to reflect on their ‘best thing’ from the trip. There’s always laughter about funny metro rides or memorable meetings, but my favorite moments are when a student shares an ‘a-ha’ moment. You can literally see their growth over just a few days.”

“I feel optimistic about the future of agriculture after spending time with the section presidents and state officers of Illinois FFA,” Weinzierl said.

“These students are truly the cream of the crop. They represent Illinois agriculture with pride and professionalism and have certainly earned our investment in them.”

Also receiving the Honorary American FFA Degree was Kenneth Hartman Jr., of Waterloo, chairman of the National Corn Growers Association.