GALT, Calif. — The California FFA Foundation, in partnership with Nationwide and the California Farm Bureau, has announced Russell Zimmerman, an agricultural teacher at Nipomo High School, as California’s 2025-2026 “Ag Educator of the Year.”
Zimmerman was formally recognized as the Golden Owl Award grand prize winner during the California FFA State Leadership Conference in Ontario on March 22. In addition to the title of California’s Ag Educator of the Year, Zimmerman received the coveted Golden Owl Award trophy and a $3,000 Nationwide-funded donation to further invest in Nipomo High School’s agricultural education efforts.
Upon receiving the award, Zimmerman expressed appreciation for his supportive community. “I am incredibly grateful and proud to be recognized as the 2026 Golden Owl Award recipient. Over the past eight years, I have had the opportunity to work with students from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. What makes agricultural education so special is the ability to build relationships with students and help them see opportunities they may not have known existed,” he shared. “I truly love what I do, and exposing students to agriculture is just as meaningful for me as it is for them. I am proud to be a Nipomo High School Titan and grateful for the support of my students, colleagues, and community.”
Each of the six Golden Owl Award finalists was presented with an individualized plaque in front of more than 7,500 attendees at the California FFA State Leadership Conference and received a $500 donation to support future educational efforts. The regional finalists were:
- Shelby Fishman, Atwater High School
- Jennifer Knight, Clovis East High School
- Robyn Payne, Sunset High School
- Tara Meade, El Capitan High School
- Heather Thomas, Colusa High School
Zimmerman’s passion for agricultural education and his commitment to his students have made him an exceptional educator, and his recognition is well-deserved. The individual who nominated Zimmerman described him as a constant source of encouragement, creating a classroom where learning is engaging, and every student feels valued and included. Whether leading early morning practices, coaching students through competitions, or investing extra time during lunch and after school, Zimmerman ensures students are prepared to succeed. His ability to motivate students to get involved in FFA and challenge themselves has helped many develop confidence, leadership skills, and a stronger sense of purpose in school.
One student shared, “Mr. Zimmerman makes learning enjoyable and encourages every student to get involved. Through his support and encouragement, I became more active in FFA competitions and leadership opportunities and developed a stronger motivation to succeed in school.”
Zimmerman is known for going above and beyond for his students, regularly meeting with them before school, during lunch, and after school to help them prepare for leadership experiences, speaking events, and career development events. His enthusiasm and consistency create a welcoming classroom environment where students feel supported, motivated, and excited to learn.
Nationwide established the Golden Owl Award with its 15 state partners to shed light on the contributions of the nation’s leading agricultural teachers and provide additional resources to support their programs.
“Nationwide is proud to recognize the dedicated teachers who are educating and inspiring students to pursue careers in agriculture,” said Brad Liggett, president of agribusiness at Nationwide. “We’re honored to have the opportunity to appreciate their contributions, highlight the growing need for their services, and supply additional resources to help provide their students with optimal learning experiences.”
In conjunction with the Golden Owl Award, Nationwide is also donating $5,000 to the California FFA Foundation to further support the personal and professional growth of students, teachers, and advisors alike.
The Golden Owl Award is the result of partnerships between Nationwide, the California FFA Foundation, and the California Farm Bureau.
For more information about the Golden Owl Award and the California FFA Foundation’s efforts to support agricultural education, visit calaged.org.
